As a Roman Catholic - and given that the explanations in the thread indeed have merit - I can still find nothing to get upset about.
I shall always understand it as a lovable piece of nonsense - probably more English i.e. rather than Irish Scottish or Welsh "traditions" in our Isles). I remember some 40 years ago at someone's 21st Birthday full of drink , a group of mates including some nationally known folk singers did the whole bit including your left ball in .....etc .
Magic.
I understand the need of some to explore the derivation, to be informed, and, to inform us on these pages, which IS interesting, but you would think that the top people in the Catholic and Protestant churches would have better things to occupy their supposed intellects.
Everybody should try to learn to laugh, and enjoy the Hokey Cokey for the bit of fun which it undoubtedly is, and has entered our working class tradition.
To highlight any other deep-seated meanings - which are relatively lost in time, gives oxygen - to a non deserving cause.
F&cking hell we're still "celebrating" Guy Fawkes night - does anyone imagine that the large amount of money spent (millions) by dipstick individuals ,Councils, and other Large and small organisations throughout the land, on expensive fireworks, are celebrating the capture of a CATHOLIC entering the houses of Parliament with the intention of blowing it up ? Most of them haven't a clue - but that's what English people like to do - so let them get on with it.
Can we do the Grand Old duke of York next ?(Only kidding )
Compliments of the Festive Season to all Mudcatters and their families and friends of whatever creed or non belief , and let's hope one of your kids doesn't ask you "Was baby Jesus a Catholic, Protestant or a Jew.?
Cheers Betsy .