Why do Scouts shake with their left hands?
Scouts shake with their left hands as a symbol of peace and trust. This tradition originated from Lord Robert Baden-Powell, the founder of the Scouts, who was influenced by a military custom he learnt in Africa.
Origin of the Left-Handshake Tradition
The tradition of Scouts shaking hands with their left hands dates back to the origins of the Scouting movement. Lord Robert Baden-Powell, the founder of the Scout Movement, introduced this custom for a specific reason.
Lord Baden-Powell's experiences in Africa had a profound impact on him, particularly in terms of handshaking customs. In many African cultures, the left hand is considered significant in showing trust and friendship. This belief stems from the idea that warriors hold their shields with their left hand, so putting down the shield signifies trust and peace.
Hence, when Lord Baden-Powell incorporated the left-handshake tradition into Scouting, he intended it to symbolize the values of trust, friendship, and peace that are essential to the Scout Movement.
Universal Sign of Friendship and Respect
When Scouts shake hands with their left hand, it's a symbol of trust and friendship, showing that they are part of a global brotherhood and sisterhood that values peace, camaraderie, and mutual respect.
The adoption of this tradition across Scout organizations worldwide has made it a universal gesture of goodwill among Scouts of different backgrounds, cultures, and nationalities. Regardless of their differences, Scouts use the left-handshake as a token of friendship and unity, emphasizing the shared values of the Scouting movement.
Overall, the left-handshake tradition serves as a reminder of the principles that Scouts strive to uphold – trust, peace, and respect. By continuing this practice, Scouts honor the legacy of Lord Baden-Powell and reinforce the bonds that tie them together as members of a worldwide community dedicated to making a positive impact on the world.