How to Sign "Israel"
To sign 'Israel', form an 'I' handshape with your dominant hand. Place the tip of your extended pinky finger on your chin, near the corner of your mouth. Stroke the pinky finger downward along your jawline.
Examples Using "Israel" in a Sentence
1
I want to visit Israel.
Sign 'I', 'WANT', 'VISIT', and then 'ISRAEL' by stroking your 'I' handshape down your jawline.
2
She is from Israel.
Point to the person, sign 'FROM', and then sign 'ISRAEL' using your dominant hand.
3
Israel is a beautiful country.
Sign 'ISRAEL', 'BEAUTIFUL', and 'COUNTRY' to express this statement clearly.
How to Sign "Israel"
To sign 'Israel', form an 'I' handshape with your dominant hand. Place the tip of your extended pinky finger on your chin, near the corner of your mouth. Stroke the pinky finger downward along your jawline.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This is an initialized sign, meaning it uses the first letter of the English word. It combines the 'I' handshape with the location and downward stroking movement of the sign for 'Jewish', which visually references a traditional beard.
Signing Tips
Keep your palm facing inward toward your face and ensure only your pinky finger is extended. The downward stroke should be a smooth, continuous motion along the side of your chin.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is using a 'J' handshape, which involves a twisting motion of the wrist. Make sure to keep your wrist steady and only move your hand downward. Another mistake is using a pinched handshape, which means 'Jewish' instead of 'Israel'.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Israel" in a Sentence
1I want to visit Israel.
Sign 'I', 'WANT', 'VISIT', and then 'ISRAEL' by stroking your 'I' handshape down your jawline.
2She is from Israel.
Point to the person, sign 'FROM', and then sign 'ISRAEL' using your dominant hand.
3Israel is a beautiful country.
Sign 'ISRAEL', 'BEAUTIFUL', and 'COUNTRY' to express this statement clearly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the sign for 'Israel' the same as 'Jewish'?
No. While both signs share the same location and downward stroking movement along the chin, 'Israel' uses an 'I' handshape. The sign for 'Jewish' uses a pinched handshape where the fingers and thumb come together.
Which hand should I use to sign 'Israel'?
You should use your dominant hand. If you are right-handed, use your right hand on the right side of your chin. If you are left-handed, use your left hand on the left side.
Does my pinky finger have to touch my face?
Yes, it is best to make light contact with your chin and jawline as you stroke downward. This ensures the location of the sign is clear to the person you are communicating with.
ASL is a beautiful, expressive language. Practice regularly and have fun!