ASL Dictionary of Religious Signs

Amen

Sign:

"Amen"

Amen

Motion:

Hold open "5" hand with palm facing upward. Make slight circular motion with "10" hand and then bring it straight down onto the palm of the other hand.

Note(s):

(Mnemonic Note) Motion is similar to giving a stamp of approval to something.

(Context Note) The word "amen" can be used both as an expression of emphatic agreement to a statement or truth and at the end of a prayer or song. In either case the primary sign on this page is acceptable. However, at the end of a prayer or song, it is also common to use the sign for "worship" or a modified version of the sign for "pray" (see Variation 1). "Amen" may also be used in English to express a firm desire that a statement or prophecy become fulfilled (such as in the Book of Revelation), in which case it is better to sign a phrase such as "truly right."

Variations:

variation 1

Omit circular flourish at beginning of sign (most common); this is sort of an abbreviated version that is widely accepted. It is also common to use the sign for "worship" to say "amen," particularly at the end of prayers. Or a modified version of the sign for "pray," shown in Variation 1: both hands open, palms facing each other with fingers upward; bring hands down and together until palms are touching. See the Context Note for more information about these variations. There are also other variations that are common in different denominations, such as "crossing" oneself in Catholic style, or an upraised fist with a single "yes" shake.

SEE ALSO:

Pray, Worship