1. Sense of Release and Empathy: By connecting physically with Hester after years of emotional and spiritual separation, Dimmesdale feels a sense of release from his suppressed guilt. He shares Hester's burden of sin momentarily and gains empathy for her suffering.
2. Spiritual Conflict: The act of joining hands with Hester creates an internal struggle for Dimmesdale. He wonders if he is yielding to temptation or embracing true repentance. He's torn between his desire for forgiveness and his fear of exposing his hidden secrets.
3. Guilt and Shame: Holding hands brings back the feelings of guilt that have haunted Dimmesdale throughout the story. He sees Hester as a mirror to his own sins, and her presence amplifies his shame.
4. Love: Despite his guilt, Dimmesdale experiences an unexpected surge of love for Hester and Pearl. He yearns for genuine human connection and compassion, and this brief shared moment provides him a glimpse of emotional intimacy.
5. Redemption: In this moment, Dimmesdale recognizes that he cannot truly move on without confronting the truth of his past. He feels a calling towards redemption and believes that standing beside Hester publicly is a necessary step towards finding peace and forgiveness.
Overall, Dimmesdale's feelings as he holds Hester's hand are complex and multifaceted, encompassing release, empathy, spiritual conflict, guilt, and a desire for redemption.