Mudras: the meaning behind the Buddhist hand gestures

Buddhism is not theistic (doesn't believe in a god or gods), nor does it have a religious book. Instead, its teachings are based on a number of concepts, including the fact that desire leads to suffering, nothing is permanent, all actions have consequences, and that enlightenment (AKA nirvana) can be reached.

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What are mudras? -

Mudra is a Sanskrit word for “sign.” Mudras are hand gestures often depicted in Buddhist art that are used mostly in the practice of meditation and yoga.

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Mudras -

While these are physical gestures, they have a deep spiritual meaning in Buddhism. These positions are used to evoke a particular state of mind, which are often combined with Buddhist practices such as reciting mantras and tantric visualization.

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Different mudras -

Every mudra has both an outer and an inner function. It communicates something to both the person performing it and to the person observing it. Now, let’s take a look at the different types of mudras and what they mean.

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Dhyana -

Also known as the Samadhi, meditation, or yoga mudra, Dhyana is one of the most popular mudras. Often used in the Mahayana tradition of Buddhism, it symbolizes compassion for all living beings.

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Dhyana -

The position is achieved by placing the right hand on top of the left hand, with the palms facing up and thumbs touching.

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Dhyana -

Dhyana is often depicted in images of Buddha Shakyamuni, Dhyani Buddha, Amitabh, and the Medicine Buddha.

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Bhumisparsha -

The earth-touching mudra is yet another popular hand position. It’s used as a representation of Buddha's awakening, when he claims the earth as a witness to his enlightenment.

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Bhumisparsha -

The Bhumisparasa mudra is performed by placing the right hand above the right knee, reaching towards the ground “touching the earth,” with the palm facing inward.

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Vitarka -

Vitarka symbolizes the discussion and the teachings of the Buddha. It’s about the transmission of the dharma (Buddhist teaching and practice).

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Vitarka -

The Vitarka mudra is performed by touching the thumb and index fingers, creating a circle. The other fingers should remain straight, pointing upwards. The hand is held at chest level.

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Abhaya -

The Abhaya mudra symbolizes protection and fearlessness. The gesture also represents blessing, peace, benevolence, and reassurance.

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Abhaya -

The Abhaya mudra is performed by placing the left hand in the meditation mudra, while the right hand is held upright with the palm facing outward, at chest level.

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Abhaya -

Buddha Shakyamuni, Dhyani Buddha, and Amoghasiddhi are often depicted holding this mudra.

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Dharmachakra -

This mudra symbolizes the Wheel of Dharma, or the Wheel of the Teaching. Buddha performed this mudra during his first sermon in Sarnath, following his enlightenment.

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Dharmachakra -

Both hands are used in this mudra. The left hand faces inward, covering the right hand, facing outward.

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Dharmachakra -

The thumbs and forefingers of each hand form circles. The circles touch one another and are held at chest level.

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Varada (or Varadamudra) -

This is the mudra of generosity. Varada symbolizes giving, offering, and charity, as well as compassion and sincerity.

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Varada (or Varadamudra) -

To perform this mudra, place the palm of your right hand facing outward and extend your fingers. The left hand should rest with extended fingers on the lap.

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Karana -

This mudra is traditionally used to ward off evil. It’s used to channel the flow of vital life force energy known as prana, which helps against negativity in general.

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Karana -

The Karana mudra is performed by raising the index and the little finger in a “horns” shape while folding the other fingers.

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Vajra -

The Vajra mudra is the gesture of the fiery thunderbolt, and it symbolizes the five elements: air, water, fire, earth, and metal. It’s often used to stimulate blood circulation.

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Vajra -

In this mudra, the index finger is extended straight while the other three fingertips are pressed against the thumb.

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Uttarabodhi -

The Uttarabodhi mudra symbolizes enlightenment and the connection with divine universal energy.

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Uttarabodhi -

In this mudra, the hands interlock, but the index fingers and thumbs remain extended. The tips of the index fingers touch and point upward, and the tips of the thumbs also touch, but point downward.

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Anjali -

Anjali means "salutation" in Sanskrit, so the Anjali mudra translates into English as a "salutation seal." The gesture is very popular in Asian countries, and it’s used for greeting, prayer, and meditation.

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Anjali -

The mudra is performed by placing the palms together against one another in front of the anahata ("heart") chakra.

Sources: (Yogapedia) (Tricycle) (Chopra) (The Spruce) (Jagran Josh)

Mudras: the meaning behind the Buddhist hand gestures

These are commonly used in meditation and yoga

23/01/24 | StarsInsider

LIFESTYLE Buddhism

If you're familiar with images of the Buddha, you have probably noticed that he is often depicted with his hands in certain positions. The same is true for imagery related to meditation and yoga. These hand gestures are called mudras, and they are part of Buddhist practice. But what do these hand position actually mean?

In this gallery, we go through some of the most popular mudras and explain their meaning. Click on for a real lesson.