Handshaking origin

The sociology makes much affords in order to establish where handshaking comes from, what's the origin of this interesting and still modern sign of greeting. Now the main meaning of handshaking is introducing and greeting. But many years ago people used to greet each other in a different way. For example, they kissed the hand of a person who was more honorable by social position or gender category. Even now in some Eastern countries they used to touch their foreheads in order to greet another person.

Well, there are two theories of this sign origin. The first one is connected with the older times. It tells that when two Arabs met in the desert, they wanted to greet each other in accordance with the traditions of those times. They reached their hands to be kissed simultaneously. However, the unusual situation was born. Who had to kiss the hand first? So, their hands met and shook each other. In such a way both men accepted equality towards each other.

Another idea is connected with the medieval knights. Of course, the times were very dark and wild. Fighting for the lands and hearts of the boatful ladies were their favorite leisure. So, in order to show that the men came to the meeting unarmed and friendly, they showed their hands. Two knights shook the hand of the enemy and made sure that he was without his sword, they accepted invitation to communicate. They had to safe their lives, we see.

So, shaking is considered to be positive start in the relationships between people.