LotR -- Book 5 - Chapter 02 - The Passing of the Grey Company

[Lhunardawen]

Originally Posted by Lalwendë

His symbol was made in mockery of the sign for peace between Men, or did he utilise it at first to win their confidence and trust?

He may not have actively done so, but Saruman sought to win Rohan's friendship - and with it their confidence and trust - through Grima. The rest of the Rohirrim may not have trusted him, but Theoden did and that's all that matters. In view of this, it's interesting that the Ents toppled the 'statue' of the White Hand, as if saying that they have seen through his deceit and they are permanently cutting off any friendship they used to have with Saruman.

It's funny, though, how Halbarad's hands showed white while his shadow was dark, like he was indeliberately used to see if the Rohirrim have really learned their lesson!