Examples of 'gestures' of spiritual meaning?

Question

I am curious of the many gestures known in various faiths worldwide. Can anybody of any system of belief give examples of gestures.

If you are uncertain of what I mean by 'gestures', i refer to the way the body is symbolically formed... like a silent and still dance in time.

How about anybody who is NOT Christian...?

Constant barrage is giving me a headache...

Answer 1

Catholics perform the "sign of the cross"; touching first their foreheads. then above their hearts, and finally touching each shoulder. They usually say "In the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Ghost" while doing this. I felt the gesture symbolized that we are to give our mind and heart to Jesus Christ (God).

They also genuflect, bend down to one knee, before the Eucharist, which represents the presence of God on the altar, as they enter the pew from the center aisle. This is a sign of reverence to God. Also while offering prayers, such as during the mass or after confession, most kneel on both knees, and bow their head as a sign of humble subservience to God.

Some people while praying will lay out prostrated on the ground, laying out on the ground in complete surrender of their self before God. Others just pause momentarily from doing anything, while they are talking with God. Some fold their hands as a symbol of submission to God and His will. Others follow the instruction of the Bible to lift up holy hands to the Lord.

I think the Church of God still practices foot washings, emulating what Christ did with the disciples. You could also look at the performance of communion, the sharing of bread and wine (or a cracker, a wafer, grape juice), as a gesture that Christians do in rememberance of Jesus Christ, as He instructed during the last supper.

All are expressions of the humble attitude and inner change of those who are worshiping God. Gestures do serve a purpose. Try droping down to kneel on one knee, and spreading out your arms before you. Does this illict feelings of humbleness and an offering of yourself for service, as the knights of old did before their King? Same principle, except the gestures are a natural expression a genuine inward attitude on the part of these Christians, who are offering their lives in service of the King of kings, the living God. Hope this is useful to you. God bless.

Answer 2

Hymns with a stable content textile. i'm long term on condition that comprehensive with the regularly occurring 3 sentence suggestive, so noted as, Christian songs. i like those lyrics that exalt and bring up up God`s call. MIMI

Answer 3

sign of the cross
praying hands
eyes up toward Heaven w/head tilted back
arms and/or hands raised

I used to go to Messianic services and they were dancing. I wanted to join them, but I was too shy.

Answer 4

Here are some articles on Catholic gestures:

http://www.dnu.org/news/newspaper/dec05/catholicgestures.htm
http://www.dummies.com/WileyCDA/DummiesArticle/id-1865.html