How to Sign "Faith"
To sign 'faith,' start by forming an 'F' handshape with your dominant hand near your forehead. Bring your dominant hand down towards your chest while closing it into a fist (an 'S' handshape). As it comes down, land it firmly on top of your non-dominant hand, which should also be in a closed fist in front of your body.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This sign is a beautiful visual blend of two distinct concepts. The 'F' handshape near the head represents the initialized English word 'faith' originating from the mind or your thoughts. The downward motion into tightly clasped fists is borrowed directly from the ASL sign for 'trust' or 'confidence.' Together, these elements visually demonstrate a thought or belief moving from the mind and transforming into a solid, unwavering foundation that you can hold onto.
Signing Tips
When signing 'faith,' the final motion should look and feel solid, just like the concept itself. Make sure your dominant hand lands firmly on your non-dominant hand to emphasize a strong, unwavering foundation. Keep your facial expression sincere and confident to match the deep meaning of the word. Since this sign is related to belief and trust, a steady, assured look will help convey the emotion behind the sign much better than a blank expression.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is starting with an open hand instead of an 'F' handshape. Starting with an open hand that closes into fists is the sign for 'trust.' To clearly sign 'faith,' make sure your dominant hand distinctly forms an 'F' near your forehead before moving down into the fist. Another mistake is keeping the hands too loose at the end; the final fists should be stacked tightly to show a strong grip on your belief.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Faith" in a Sentence
1I have faith in you.
Point to yourself, sign 'faith' by bringing the 'F' handshape from your forehead down to your other hand, and then point to the person you are talking to.
2Keep your faith strong.
Sign 'faith' with a firm, confident movement when your hands clasp together, followed by the sign for 'strong' to emphasize the resilience of the belief.
3Her faith is very important to her.
Point to the person, sign 'faith', and then use the sign for 'important' by bringing both 'F' hands up in a circular motion to meet together.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'faith' and 'trust' in ASL?
The signs are very similar and share the same final motion. However, 'faith' is initialized, meaning it starts with an 'F' handshape near the forehead. 'Trust' typically starts with an open hand near the chest or face before closing into fists.
Do I have to touch my forehead with the 'F' handshape?
You don't need to physically touch your forehead. Simply holding the 'F' handshape close to the side of your forehead or temple before moving it downward is perfectly clear. The focus is on the movement from the mind down to a solid foundation.
Which hand should be on top at the end of the sign?
Your dominant hand should always be the one that moves from your forehead and lands on top. Your non-dominant hand acts as the stationary base in front of your chest, waiting to catch the dominant hand.
Related ASL Signs