Sign language is sometimes called universal, understandable to a person of any nationality, in contrast to the verbal language. It is in sign language that people are trying to explain themselves, overcoming the language barrier. But this idea is only partially true. The same gestures can have different meanings for representatives of different nations.
A gesture in the form of a raised middle finger from the point of view of a Russian person is offensive and even obscene. The subtext is clear: the finger symbolizes the male genital organ.
In this sense, this gesture existed in ancient Rome. True, he was not offensive there. Demonstrating it, the man hinted to others about his good health. But representatives of other nations put a completely different meaning into it.
In modern English and American culture, this gesture also has a phallic meaning. One of the Liverpool players was even temporarily disqualified for his demonstration. However, some linguists believe that a gesture in the form of a raised middle finger has already lost this meaning, having established itself as an expression of hatred and protest. Thus, the gesture can be considered offensive, but obscene - it is no longer possible.
Other values
In some countries, this gesture will not offend anyone, because it does not carry any negative meaning. The Germans, raising their thumb, mean that they are happy with everything, everything is fine - in a word, they express approval.
In many Slavic countries, with the help of a raised middle finger, they attract the attention of those present. Even in the USA, the gesture has a second meaning, which is quite decent. With such a gesture, students in the classroom inform the teacher of their desire to answer the question.
For Muslim peoples, this gesture is religious in nature. "There is no God but Allah" - such is its meaning.
