Why do we shake hands ?

[boosbabe]

My fiance and I were wondering this the other day and think it has something to do with showing your hand,to show you are'nt carrying a weapon.Can anyone elaborate

[mandela]

historically it is used to show both people were unarmed , the hand sake is now used as a gauge of trust , mood , confidence and sophistication . a two handed handsake is reserved for friends and is a sign of real affection

[funkymoped]

im a lefty !

[Octavius]

The New Testament, in the Book of Galatians reflects the narration of St. Paul, that, upon his visit to Jerusalem he met with James, Cephas (Peter), and John, who each gave him, upon his leaving, the "right hand of friendship."

It was brought into practice in its present form in Western society by English Quakers in 17th century as a more egalitarian and simpler alternative to the complex greeting etiquette of the contemporary higher social classes.