There are many very subtle nuances in the extending or raising of the arms - they go back so far that the great apes share some of them.

The angles, and there are many possibilities of different orientations are important.

I find signs expressive - being female and having curved limbs the rotation of the arm from the shoulder is probably more distinct - I think it proves that females communicated more even before they could use words.

The civillian Nazi salute was quite distinct in the straightness of the arm, projecting forward from the shoulder and slightly inwards, palm down hand flat - so when looking at the person being saluted the saluter sees the hand over the head - implications of adoration, homage owed. It was also quite extended in time - at rallies it seemed to be held for many minutes.

Notice if you ever see film of Hitler acknowledging the crowds how he keeps his elbow down close to his ribs, hand raised up so he views the masses over his hand, indicating his separation, difference, and control. I once heard it described as 'namby pamby'- though the describer saw my point when I remarked that there seemed to be no one sniggering. No one would dare.

Simply extending the right hand up and out is not a Nazi salute, and perhaps holding the out held hand as though pouring something from a cupped hand over the people it is directed towards should indicate the true spirit of the gesture in church.

I feel it is not right to allow an entire repertoire of gestures to be tarnished by association with one particular and very precise salute.

Anne