Another way of pressing palms (see Pressing Palms). Gassho, which literally means "to place the two palms together" is one of the most fundamental and frequently used hand gestures in Buddhism. It expresses respect, reverence, and humility, and serves to unify the mind and suppress dualities, e.g. left and right, right and wrong, good and bad. Dates from the early days of Buddhism. Usually followed by a standing or full bow. [NOTE: The mala, several years old now, is made of sandalwood and engraved with the characters for Om Mani Padme Hum (see Om Mani Padme Hum). I got it in China. The red blessing string was tied around my wrist last summer at Angkor Wat (see Incense Offering)].