Palmistry is characterization and foretelling of the future through the study of the palm, also known as palm reading, or chirology. The practice is found across the world, with numerous cultural variations. 

We all know that the fingerprints are unique. But in fact, the entire hand is unique in terms of the pattern of lines. The lines are unique as each of us has personal memories, hopes and individual characteristic traits. Since there is a traceable link between our personality, thoughts, experiences and the way the lines are formed, our handprints represent a kind of personalized signature. Just as we continuously change and evolve, so do the lines of our hands.

The study of our hand prints provides us with a method of analyzing ourselves objectively. We therefore are more likely to make  positive choices regarding our work, our dealings with people around us, and other important aspects of life. We will find ourselves less likely to repeat our mistakes. With time, the improvements we make in our lives will register on our lines.

There is general understanding among palm readers as to what each hand indicates (right and left) represents. Depending on whether a person is right-handed  or left-handed, hand lines role changes. However, depending upon the palm reader and his or her training or country of origin, this may vary.

Hand Shape (Chirognomy)

Study of the shape of the hand and fingers is known as chirognomy. In addition to the lines, mounts, markings, color, skin texture, etc.,  the shape of the hand & fingers indicate about the  characteristics of an individual. There are multiple systems used to categorize the hand shapes

 

Common hand shapes are conical, spatulate, pointed, square, knotted and mixed. 

Fingers and  Thumb Shapes

The fingers are important indicators as each of them reveals a different aspect of an individual’s trait as emotional, spirituality and health. They provide insights into an individual’s  intellect, creativity, ambition and communication skills along with  one’s future outcomes. Palmists take into account the shape, length, width, lines, markings, nail shape, etc. Fingers also contain vertical and horizontal lines. Horizontal lines signify obstacles whereas Vertical lines indicate health issues as lack of sleep, etc. These lines can cross each other which indicates that the  obstacles have been overcome. 

Similarly Thumbs play an important aspect of assessing an individual’s personality and temperament.

MAJOR LINES

Most consider three major lines namely: life line, heart line and brain line. Most people are curious about the life line. This line starts between index finger and thumb and then continues toward the base of the hand connecting the wrist. Heart line, also known as the love line indicates emotional and physical relationships aspect of a person with others along with as an  indicator of the health of the heart. The brain line also known as the head line or the wisdom line  indicates mental & intuitive abilities, intellectual  and psychological state.

Life Line

Most people are curious about the life line. This line starts between index finger and thumb and then continues toward the base of the hand connecting the wrist.  In addition to indicating how long one will live or  die,  It also indicates the incidents in life, health, physical and emotional state.

 

Heart Line

Heart line, also known as the love line indicates emotional and physical relationships aspect of a person with others along with as an  indicator of the health of the heart. This line is located towards the base of fingers above the brain line. It generally begins under the index or middle finger, and moves toward the pinky finger.

 

Brain Line

The brain line also known as the head line or the wisdom line  indicates mental & intuitive abilities, intellectual  and psychological state.

 

 This line starts between the thumb and the index finger  just above the life line,  and runs towards the edge of the palm. However the brain line may start with a common point with the life line and extends from there. Such forked lines are also called writer’s or the lawyer’s fork. It indicates that one has a strong will and control over mind.

MINOR LINES

Minor also called secondary lines can indicate one’s  aptitude, likings, strengths and weaknesses. Their significance can vary depending on the various aspects such as shape of hand, markings, mounts and its interactions of other lines. Minor lines can vary from dark to very faint or not even be apparent. Their appearance gives the palmist a lot more insight into the subject. 

Listed hereunder are some of the common minor lines and their significance. 

 

 Luck (Fate) line, Sun line, bracelet (मणिबंध) lines, Kids Line, relationship (marriage) lines, health (स्वास्थ्य रेखा) line, girdle of venus (शुक्र का कण्ठ), simian (monkey) line and intuition line.

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THE MOUNTS

The mounts (bumps of flesh) play a significant role.  They relate to the influences of the planets, and their effect on our physical and emotional well-being. The seven mounts are synonymous with Sun, Moon, Mars, Mercury, Jupiter, Venus and Saturn. Mount’s  relationship to the other major and minor lines, their intersection with those lines play an important role.

MARKINGS (चिह्न)

Markings signify the positive or negative interruption (blockages) in the normal flow of the lines and mounts.  They act as warning signs for  problems, accidents or health problems. Some may indicate a recovery period, problem resolution however, their interpretation  depends upon their location, as each area on the palm represents a different part of life. They can enhance or diminish the energies related to those areas. 

Listed hereunder are some of the important markings that can appear on the palm of the hand as breaks, chains, crosses, dots, islands, squares, stars, tassels, transverse lines, triangles, downward ,vertical lines, etc.