The Nature and Function of Hands

The intelligent and knowledgeable are thoughtful. Even those who seem trickster-like, like the people of the Moon, yet take care in acting out themselves, with sluggish intellects. The form and utility of hands often give some signs to judge the nature of a person, but one should not completely rely on it. We often see that large hands indicate strength, small hands suggest delicacy and pleasantness. Hard hands full of flesh signify bluntness, while short stubby hands and fingers reveal sloth. Those with long fingers and full hands are often found to be crafty; narrow and thin hands are frequently unfaithful. Long hands and fingers are adept at all arts. Very small hands are signs of joyfulness and frivolity. It is also believed that hairy-headed hands are somewhat impure. While the actions of the hands bring great beauty to speech, Aristotle insists after Alexander that those who speak without hand movements demonstrate complete understanding and sound judgment. We must understand such speech, which is delivered so gracefully, such that hands are not needed. Likewise, those who are greedy and cling to their possessions have fingertips that commonly hook inward; conversely, people who are accommodating, gentle, and congenial, who have good understanding, have fingers that bend outward.

Translation Notes:
- "Maaxel" translated as "Nature" to capture its behavioral context.
- "Dienst der" translated as "Function of" to reflect its utility aspect.
- "Bescheydenheyt" rendered as "frivolity" to convey light-hearted characteristics.
- "Reden" explained as speech with an emphasis on its delivery.
- "Geadige" as "accommodating," to express a gentle persuasion.