How to Sign "Temple"
To sign 'temple,' begin by forming both hands into 'T' handshapes, with your thumbs tucked under your index fingers. Bring your hands together in front of your upper chest or face so the sides of your index fingers touch, forming the peak of a roof. Next, move your hands diagonally downward and outward to trace the slanted roofline of the building. Finally, bring both hands straight down parallel to each other to represent the vertical walls. The movement should be smooth and symmetrical.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This variation of 'temple' is a classic example of an initialized sign in American Sign Language. Initialization occurs when a sign incorporates the first letter of its English translation into the handshape. In this case, the sign borrows the highly iconic, visual movement of the sign for 'house'—which naturally traces the physical roof and walls of a building. By swapping the standard flat hands for 'T' handshapes, the sign visually communicates the concept of a building while specifying that it is a temple.
Signing Tips
When practicing the sign for 'temple,' focus on keeping your 'T' handshapes crisp and clear throughout the entire movement. The motion should be smooth and perfectly symmetrical, mirroring the exact movement used for the sign 'house'. Make sure the transition from the slanted roofline to the straight vertical walls is distinct, so the shape of the building is obvious. Keep your movements relaxed but deliberate, and ensure both hands move at the exact same time and speed for a natural look.
Common Mistakes
The most common mistake beginners make with this sign is relaxing their fingers into flat 'B' shapes as they trace the building. If you use flat hands instead of the specific 'T' handshapes, you will accidentally sign the general word 'house' instead of 'temple'. Always double-check that your thumbs stay firmly tucked under your index fingers from the peak of the roof all the way down to the bottom of the walls. Additionally, avoid making the building too wide or too narrow.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Temple" in a Sentence
1The temple is beautiful.
Start by signing 'temple' by tracing the shape of the building with your 'T' hands. Then, sign 'beautiful' by opening your dominant hand in front of your face and smoothly closing it into a pinched shape as you circle your face. Your facial expression should look pleasant and admiring!
2We visit the temple.
Point your index finger between your shoulder and the other person for 'we'. Next, sign 'visit' by moving two 'V' hands in alternating forward circles in front of your body. Finish the sentence by clearly signing 'temple' with your 'T' hands tracing the roof and walls.
3Where is the temple?
First, establish the subject by signing 'temple' as you trace the roof and walls. Then, sign 'where' by holding up your dominant index finger and waving it side to side. Remember to furrow your eyebrows, which is the essential ASL facial grammar rule for asking 'wh-' questions!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there another way to sign 'temple'?
Yes! While the video shows the initialized 'house' version, another widely used sign for 'temple' is made by forming a 'T' handshape with your dominant hand and tapping it twice on the back of your non-dominant fist. This alternative is very similar to the standard sign for 'church'.
Why does this sign look exactly like 'house'?
This variation of 'temple' is known as an initialized sign. It intentionally borrows the exact movement of 'house'—tracing the roof and walls—but uses the first letter of the English word 'temple' ('T') to specify the type of building. It's a great way to remember the sign!
Can I use this sign for any religious building?
While this specific sign means 'temple', other religious buildings have their own distinct signs. For example, 'church' uses a 'C' handshape tapped on the non-dominant fist, and 'mosque' often uses a pinching motion to represent a crescent moon. Always use the specific sign for the building you mean.
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