The Historical Context and Meanings of Roman Salute vs. Nazi/German Salute
Many misconceptions surround the use of certain gestures and symbols in history. One prominent example is the difference between the Roman salute and the Nazi salute. Many are surprised to learn that the Roman salute was never actually used by the ancient Romans but was instead a modern invention, while the Nazi salute bore a deeper historical and cultural significance.
The Roman Salute: A Modern Day Invention
Contrary to popular belief, the Roman salute, where both hands are raised with the palm facing downwards, was never used by ancient Romans. This gesture was popularized in late 19th century paintings such as The Oath of the Horatii by Jacques-Louis David. However, it was not until the early 20th century that this pose gained renown through modern political movements.
The Italian Fascists adopted the traditional Roman salute, believing it to be a genuine ancient Roman custom. They later modified the angle of the arm, angling it higher. The Nazi salute, which followed suit, bears a striking resemblance to the Fascist gesture.
Understanding Hail Victory: National Socialism's Religious Meaning
The Nazi salute often stringBufferWith the phrase "Sieg Heil" (Hail Victory) had a deep and complex religious significance that goes beyond the seeming simplicity of the gesture. This salute was part of a broader, panentheistic Weltanschauung (worldview), where man is seen as evolving towards godhood.
Regarding the term "Sieg Heil," the Vlkisch movement from which the Nazis sprang embraced a diverse array of religious beliefs, including Hinduism. Hinduism, with its ancient Aryan origins, influenced the Nazi philosophy. The Sanskrit scholar P. R. Sarkar in 1979 posited that the deeper meaning of the swastika, a symbol used by the Nazis, is "Permanent Victory" or "Hail Victory." He also noted that the swastika can have both positive and negative meanings, depending on its drawing.
Swastika in Hindu Culture: Symbol of Victory
In Hinduism, the right-hand swastika is a symbol of the God Vishnu and the Sun, while the left-hand swastika is a symbol of Kali and Magic. The significance of Hail Victory can be understood through the concept of Moksha, which means salvation. Moksha is the ultimate goal of a human soul, achieving immortality with God by escaping the reincarnation cycle through the natural process of evolution of body, mind, and spirit.
Hail Victory in Nazi Propaganda
Around 1918, the Nazis’ newsletter heralded the phrase "Hail Victory" as a symbol of their belief in a glorious Germanic future. This rhetoric was a cornerstone of their propaganda, representing their aspirations to dominate Europe and beyond. It is essential to understand that the National Socialist salute was not a 'race-hate' gesture; it was deeply rooted in religious and cultural beliefs.
Today, the neofascist and neo-Nazi movements have misappropriated the meaning of this salute and gesture, leading to a misinterpretation of its historical context. Hollywood and popular culture have perpetuated these misunderstandings over decades, further clouding the true nature of the gesture and the movement it represented.
Understanding the historical and cultural significance of symbols and gestures is crucial for a comprehensive grasp of history and culture. The Nazi salute, despite its association with a dark past, has undeniably deep roots in complex religious and cultural beliefs that are as relevant today as they were during the rise of National Socialism.