Introduced in the 1967 episode Amok Time, the distinctive Vulcan salute has become deeply ingrained in Star Trek and remains iconic among fans even decades after its inception. Devised by Leonard Nimoy, who played Captain Spock in the original series, the phrase “live long and prosper” is frequently spoken alongside the iconic hand gesture.
But despite its impact on pop culture, not many might be aware of this sign’s roots, whose meaning is deeply associated with Nimoy’s experience with the Jewish culture as a kid.
The Vulcan Salute’s Rich Jewish Heritage
Following the Vulcan species’ telepathic abilities, accompanied by a deep sense of rationality, they often refrain from using traditional means of greeting to avoid physical contact with strangers. This eventually created the room for the iconic hand gesture, which is made by separating your middle finger from the ring finger while raising your hand.
Leonard Nimoy, who suggested this gesture, and was later surprised by how it took the world by storm, recalled how his Jewish upbringing influenced this sign. During his childhood, Nimoy used to partake in Shekhinah, a prayer that was meant to bless the congregation. He further recalled that during the prayer, they’re told to close their eyes, as it is said that “the light from this Deity could be very damaging” for the eyes.
But while attending the prayer alongside his father, a young Nimoy peeked out of curiosity and saw the hand gesture resembling the Hebrew letter shin.
I thought, ‘something major is happening here.’ So I peeked. . And I saw them with their hands stuck out from beneath the tallit like this, I had no idea what was going on, but the sound of it and the look of it was magical.
This ended up leaving a major impression on the actor, who recalled practicing the hand gesture throughout his childhood before it eventually made its way to the Star Trek universe.
The Plot of J.J. Abrams’ Star Trek Deeply Hinged on Leonard Nimoy’s Return
After a years-long absence from the Star Trek universe, Leonard Nimoy returned to play Spock in J.J. Abrams‘ reimagining of the franchise with the 2009 release Star Trek. Reflecting on the iconic actor’s return, writers Alex Kurtzman and Roberto Orci revealed that the film’s plot highly hinged on whether the actor would be willing to step into the role again or not. Orci stressed (via Trek Movie) that there was never a backup plan ready if the actor had passed away.
There was never a plan B for me. Maybe Paramount had a plan B, but for me and Alex, it has to be Nimoy or bust and that is why that meeting with him was so pivotal. His role had to be essential, otherwise, he wouldn’t have done it. So, to have a plan B would have been disrespectful to him, and the franchise.
While it has been almost a decade since the actor’s passing, his influence on the Star Trek franchise and pop culture as a whole continues to live long and prosper.
Star Trek is available to stream on Paramount Plus.
