The Index Finger

Also known as the “pointer finger”, the index finger symbolizes leadership on the hand. This is evident in the actions performed by the index finger: it points the way; it is the finger that, with the opposable thumb, picks things up and pinches; it leads in most of the activities of the hand. In the Creation of Adam painting by Michelangelo in the Sistine Chapel , the index finger is depicted as the generative force. In the modern world, the index finger pulls the trigger, pushes the button, directs the children, and tests the batter. (after reading this you will, no doubt, notice many different things your handy index finger does – including it’s namesake, indexing [filing, in other words]).


When I am reading a client’s palm, I first observe the position of the digits in relation to the palm. I look to see if the index finger is overextended, or splayed out from the other fingers or maybe it is curved up toward the palm more than the other fingers. Each of these positions reveal elements of my client’s leadership.
Although there is no hard and fast rule for what each position means – I usually take many other things into account when reading – you can look at your hand and see into your life by interpreting the position of your fingers. Is your index finger over-extended? Does this mean you are in a job over your head? Or are you striving to lead in an environment that is working aginst you? The positive side of an over-extended index finger could be that you are committed to your work, and you are determined to see it through.

Or, perhaps your index finger curved up toward the palm in an over-relaxed position. Perhaps you are afraid to take a leadership role, or have been denied the ability to lead. The positive side of a curved up index finger is that you can be a great team player, and a great advocate for leadership of others.
Observing the position of your fingers, that it, the body language in your hand, and then thinking about your life, can help you access information and reveal character traits in a unique way.

I hope these thoughts inspire you to greater insight and knowledge.

Blessings - Jim

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The Thumb

As a palm reader, I don't just study the lines of the hand during a reading, I usually begin by reading the body language of the hand, that is, the position of the fingers, the tension in the muscles, the posture and position of the hand while at rest or in action.

Particularly revealing is the thumb. The thumb is the "doer". Notice that everything you do involves your opposable thumb. Those who have lost the use of their thumb know better than any of us how much we rely on this digit.

The thumb as an indicator of how willing a person is to DO things. If the thumb is splayed out at a 90-degree angle from the hand, that person is rearing to go. if the thumb is pressed against the hand, or hidden in the fist, that person is definitely attempting to avoid taking action.

You can use this little observation in your own life. The next time you are at a meeting, observe the thumbs of the attendees. Usually, those who are actively volunteering have their thumbs out and ready. Those who are quiet will have their thumbs in a more retracted pose. When someone is not speaking, look at their hands to check and see - are they willing to be recruited to your effort (thumb out), or are they hoping to get a pass (thumbs in).

Though difficult, you can train yourself to observe your own thumbs. Think of a situation in which you are called to action by outside influence. Then extend you hand while picturing this situation. Look at your hands (without moving them). The position of your thumb can indicate a lot about where you are in willingness and ability to take action.

I hope these thoughts inspire you to greater insight and knowledge.

Blessings - Jim