ristiinnäyttää

Ristiinnäyttää is a Finnish verb that translates to "to cross oneself" or "to make the sign of the cross." It refers to the gesture of tracing the outline of a cross on one's own body, typically with the fingers, as a religious observance. This practice is common in various Christian traditions, particularly Catholicism and Orthodox Christianity, though it can also be found in some Protestant denominations.

The gesture usually begins with touching the forehead, then moving to the chest (stomach), and then to the left shoulder followed by the right shoulder. The specific order and hand position can vary slightly depending on the tradition. It is often accompanied by prayer or a recitation of the words "In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen."

The act of ristiinnäyttää is a visible expression of faith, a prayer, a plea for protection, or a way to consecrate oneself or a space. It can be performed during moments of prayer, before undertaking a task, when passing a church, or in times of distress or danger. The origins of the gesture are ancient, with evidence of similar practices dating back to the early centuries of Christianity. It has remained a significant devotional practice for millions of believers worldwide.