What is the symbolic meaning of having your hand over your heart when the US national anthem is played?

Question

What is the history of having your hand over your heart? I noticed that the military tends to stand in attention when the national anthem is played. Why do they do that? Does it really matter where your hand is as long as your posture conveys respect for the anthem?

Answer 1

Patriotism and allegiance.

Answer 2

maybe something similar

to swearing on the bible

perhaps an old ritual

supposedly making that oath

to the country that much more true or real

Answer 3

It means that you close your heart to humanity in the name of the Empire!

Answer 4

It's a republican trick!

Answer 5

I think you are suppose to put your right hand over your heart out of respect. The Flag Code states that during a rendition of the national anthem when the flag is displayed all present except those in uniform should stand at attention facing the flag with their right hand over their heart. However this may be somewhat out of date since it also states that men in uniform should remove their "headdress."  Yet it is still cited in several military manuals on the web. I personally think that as long as you show respect with your demeanor while the anthem is being played then all is well.

By The Way:: This is besides the point; But I went to school with a Pradeep and Praveen. I highly doubt that you are either of them, that would be too uncommon. Their last name started with an "M" and their parents were physicians. They were very nice guys.

Answer 6

It's symbolic for love of your country

Answer 7

THE UNITED STATES CODE

title 36

subtitle I

part A

chapter 3

§ (subsection ?) 301

§ 301. National anthem

(a) Designation.- The composition consisting of the words and music known as the Star-Spangled Banner is the national anthem.

(b) Conduct During Playing.- During a rendition of the national anthem-

(1) when the flag is displayed-

(A) all present except those in uniform should stand at attention facing the flag with the right hand over the heart;

(B) men not in uniform should remove their headdress with their right hand and hold the headdress at the left shoulder, the hand being over the heart; and

(C) individuals in uniform should give the military salute at the first note of the anthem and maintain that position until the last note; and

(2) when the flag is not displayed, all present should face toward the music and act in the same manner they would if the flag were displayed.

No one is going to arrest you, though, if you don't do it.  So do what you wish.  In military uniform, there are still requirements though.

Answer 8

Its just tradition. Showing respect.