History with Phil: Deep cultural symbolism rooted in the playful 'pinky swear'

The pinky swear is a simple gesture familiar to children worldwide: two people lock their smallest fingers together to seal a promise. While today it is often playful, lighthearted, and a symbol of trust, the origins of this gesture are far deeper, rooted in centuries of ritual, folklore, and societal values, particularly in Japan. Understanding the pinky swear requires tracing its journey from solemn oath-taking to modern childhood practice, revealing the way culture transforms meaning across time and space.