The First Finger.

The first finger is the most important. Employed constantly in directing everything we do, for no one would think of pointing the second or third finger, nor even the thumb. The first finger is used in guiding and directing the tools used in many of the most skillful and delicate manipulations of various arts; for that purpose the nerve currents flow constantly from the brain to the forefinger. It becomes, therefore, an index of the possessor’s intellect more than any other.

The first phalange represents by its length, breadth and development, capacity for detail, direction and perceptive capacity. Thickness gives it depth of comprehension and logic—the breadth at the joint shows system; the second joint shows capacity for work; and breadth of the middle joint, order in work. Length of the third or lower phalange represents intellectual pursuits; if larger than the second, prefer intellectual to physical work; if broad and upon a good foundation, indicates a philosophic mind; with broad knuckles, practice what they preach; with square fingers and well developed thumb, seek to carry out reforms; with short fingers are practical; with long fingers and tapering, are theoretical.

If first finger is very long, indicates excellent ability to direct. If it reaches the height of the middle finger or nearly, indicates social success, honor or fame.

Note the difference between left and right hand. If longer on left, has the quality by birth; if on right hand, will succeed through their own power and energy.

A very short first finger indicates continuous struggle; first finger level with third, should succeed in business.