Cultural Research

📍 Cultural Research: How the Language of Gestures is Read in the East and Africa

By Vakhtang Imerlishvili

Culture is not only read through literature and laws — it is perceived through movement, gestures, gaze, and silence.
In Eastern and African societies, gestures often communicate what words cannot express.

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The Language of Gestures in the East (Arab and Persian Contexts)

Gesture	Meaning
Hand placed on the chest	Respect and sincerity
Slight bow of the head	Humility and gratitude
Looking upward from lowered eyes	Submission or tenderness
Offering something with the right hand	Traditional politeness – left hand is considered impure

The Language of Gestures in Africa (East African Context)

Gesture	Meaning
Firm handshake using both hands	Honest greeting and deep respect
Slight head tilt to the side	Reflection or interest
Silence during a conversation	Depth, agreement, or uncertainty – depends on the context
Raising eyebrows	Greeting or drawing attention (in some regions, it means “I hear you”)

Analysis

These gestures may seem subtle, but they form the silent foundation of diplomatic communication.
They transmit attitude without words, build trust within a cultural framework, and often say more than speech itself.

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Conclusion

Cultural research is the root of diplomacy.
Those who understand gestures and silence correctly gain access not just to communication — but to people’s hearts.
Silence can be dialogue. A gesture can be a declaration of trust.