Buddha's hand positions, also called Mudras
In the world of Buddhism, Buddha mudras occupy a special place. These symbolic gestures, performed with the hands, represent essential concepts of Buddhist philosophy and provide a tangible path for meditation and contemplation.
In this blog dedicated to Buddha mudras, we will explore their meaning, history and use in spiritual practice. Each mudra, whether the teaching mudra or the meditation mudra, embodies specific aspects of the Buddhist path, providing a deeper understanding of the Buddha's teachings.
Join us in this exploration of the ancient gestures and deeper meanings of Buddha mudras, a fascinating window into the richness and complexity of Buddhist spirituality.
Contents
The different Mudras:
1 - The Mudra of meditation, Dhyana Mudra
The Meditation Mudra, also called Dhyana Mudra, is a sacred gesture used in meditation and spiritual practice in Eastern traditions such as Buddhism and Hinduism. “Mudra” is a Sanskrit term meaning “seal” or “gesture,” while “Dhyana” refers to meditation.
- Hand position: In the Mudra of Meditation, the hands rest on the knees or thighs, with the palms facing upwards. The thumbs and index fingers of each hand lightly touch, forming a circle or oval.
- Symbolic Meaning: This mudra symbolizes meditation, concentration and peace of mind. The posture of the hands represents the union of masculine and feminine aspects, wisdom and method, space and consciousness. The circle formed by the thumbs and index fingers can also evoke the endless cycle of life and death, recalling the cyclical nature of existence.
- Artistic Interpretation: In Buddhist art, the Buddha is often depicted meditating with the Meditation Mudra. This posture is used to convey the idea of inner calm, deep concentration and spiritual realization.
- Spiritual Practice: By meditating with the Meditation Mudra, practitioners seek to cultivate mental focus, calm the restless mind, and develop mindfulness. This posture can help stabilize the mind and promote states of inner tranquility and mental clarity.
Dhyana Mudra is often performed in a seated position during meditation. This is how it is generally formed:
- Sit comfortably with your back straight.
- Place your hands on your knees, palms facing up.
- Join your thumb and index finger to form a circle.
- Let the other fingers extend in a relaxed manner.
Our Buddha statues in Dhyana Mudra
2 - The Mudra of the Teaching, also known as Dharma Chakra Mudra
The Teaching Mudra, also known as the Dharma Chakra Mudra, is a symbolic gesture associated with transmitting the teachings of the Buddha. This mudra is often depicted in Buddhist art, notably in statues and paintings depicting the Buddha giving his first sermon after attaining enlightenment.
- Hand Position: In the Mudra of the Teaching, the hands are raised in front of the chest, the palms facing each other and the tips of the index fingers and thumbs touching to form a circle or wheel. The other fingers are extended upwards.
- Symbolic meaning: This mudra symbolizes the transmission of the teachings of the Buddha, often called the Dharma. The circle formed by the thumbs and index fingers represents the wheel of Dharma, which symbolizes the endless cycle of Buddhist teachings and their perpetual diffusion throughout the world. Fingers extended upwards evoke the idea of spiritual elevation and enlightenment.
- Artistic Interpretation: In Buddhist art, the Buddha is often depicted giving his first sermon with the Mudra of the Teaching. This posture is used to convey the idea of spreading the Buddha's teachings to his disciples and all sentient beings.
- Spiritual Practice: By contemplating the Mudra of the Teaching, practitioners can remember the importance of the Buddha's teachings in their own spiritual journey. This mudra also reminds devotees of their commitment to following the teachings of the Buddha and practicing the Dharma in their daily lives.
Here is how to perform the Mudra of Teaching:
- Sit in a stable, comfortable posture for meditation, with your back straight.
- Place your hands in front of your chest, palms facing inward.
- Join the tips of the thumbs and index fingers of each hand to form a circle.
- The other fingers remain straight and slightly separated.
3 - The Mudra of protection (Abhaya Mudra)
This mudra is usually performed by raising one hand with the palm facing outward, fingers extended upward, while the other hand often rests on the knee in a seated position.
The name “Abhaya” comes from Sanskrit and literally means “absence of fear” or “free from fear”. Thus, this mudra is often interpreted as a gesture of protection, comfort and dissipation of fear. It is said that when the Buddha performed this mudra, he reassured his disciples and offered them protection and security.
- Spiritual protection: This mudra symbolizes spiritual protection offered by the Buddha or other spiritual figures. It is often used to remind worshipers that spiritual practice provides refuge and security from the suffering of the world.
- Freedom from Fear: By raising his hand in this gesture, the Buddha shows that there is nothing to fear for those who follow the spiritual path with faith and devotion. It represents the confidence and peace of mind that comes from spiritual practice.
- Kindness and comfort: The Mudra of protection is also interpreted as a gesture of kindness and comfort. By performing this mudra, the Buddha offers his reassuring presence and compassion to all those who are plagued by fear and uncertainty.
- Trust in Dharma: This mudra also represents trust in the teachings of the Buddha, known as dharma. By adopting it, the Buddha shows that he has fully realized the fundamental truths of the dharma and offers this wisdom to others to guide them toward enlightenment.
In Hinduism, the Abhaya Mudra is often associated with deities such as Shiva, Vishnu and Durga, who offer protection to their devotees. In Buddhism, it is often associated with the Buddha, who used it to reassure and soothe his disciples.
This mudra is also used in meditation to cultivate a sense of security and inner calm. By adopting this posture, we can connect to the protective energy of the universe and find refuge from fears and anxieties.
Here is how to perform the Abhaya Mudra:
- Raise your right hand to shoulder height, palm facing forward.
- Extend fingers upward or slightly curve inward.
- The other fingers remain straight and relaxed.
4 - The Mudra of the offering (Varada Mudra)
This mudra is performed by extending the hand downward with the palm open and facing outward, as if offering something. The name "Varada" comes from Sanskrit and means "to give" or "to offer", which reflects the main meaning of this mudra: the act of offering, giving or generosity.
- Generosity and benevolence: This mudra symbolizes the quality of generosity and benevolence. By extending an open hand, the practitioner shows his desire to offer others, whether material goods, spiritual teachings or blessings.
- Offering Gifts: The Mudra of Offering is often associated with the act of offering gifts to deities, spiritual teachers or people in need. It represents the attitude of generosity and sharing that is valued.
- Grace and compassion: This mudra is also interpreted as a gesture of grace and compassion. By offering his open hand, the practitioner expresses his compassion towards all beings and his desire to help and support them in their spiritual journey.
- Reception and blessing: The Mudra of offering can also be interpreted as a gesture of reception and blessing. By extending the open hand, the practitioner is ready to receive blessings and teachings from deities or spiritual teachers.
In Hinduism, this mudra is often associated with deities such as Shiva, Vishnu, and Lakshmi. For example, Lakshmi, the goddess of fortune and prosperity, is often depicted in this posture to symbolize her power of benevolence and her ability to grant prosperity and wealth.
In Buddhism, the Mudra Varada is sometimes associated with depictions of the Buddha, where it is used to symbolize his infinite compassion towards all living beings and his ability to offer blessings and teachings.
In addition to its religious aspect, Mudra Varada can also be used in meditation to cultivate a feeling of compassion and generosity towards oneself and others. By adopting this posture, one can connect to the caring energy of the universe and strengthen one's ability to give and receive blessings.
Here is how to perform the Mudra Varada:
- Extend your left arm down along your body.
- Bend your elbow slightly.
- Turn the palm of your hand outward.
- Extend fingers downward, with palm facing outward.
5 - The Tarjani Mudra, the warning gesture
The Tarjani Mudra, also known as the "warning gesture" or "threat gesture", is a less common mudra in Buddhist iconography compared to other more widely represented mudras. This mudra is associated with gestures of warning or caution against negative influences or obstacles on the spiritual path.
In some artistic depictions of the Buddha, the Tarjani Mudra may be used to symbolize the Buddha's inner strength in the face of challenges and adversities. This may include the Buddha's ability to repel evil forces and protect his disciples from harmful influences.
This mudra is often performed with the hand raised, palm facing outward, and the index finger pointing upwards. Here is how to perform the Tarjani Mudra:
- Raise your right hand to shoulder height.
- Bend your elbow slightly.
- Turn the palm of your hand outward.
- Extend the index finger upward, with the other fingers bent or relaxed.
The Tarjani Mudra is used to symbolize warning, threat or protection against negative forces. It is often associated with deities or spiritual figures who offer protection against evil or who warn of the need to remain vigilant in the face of obstacles.
In Hinduism, this mudra is sometimes associated with deities such as Durga or Kali, who are goddesses of protection and destruction of evil. In yoga, the Tarjani Mudra can be used during meditation or practice to strengthen concentration and mental alertness.
Apart from its spiritual aspect, this mudra can also be used as a symbolic gesture in social interactions to signify the need to exercise caution or to warn of potential danger.
6 - The Mudra of healing (Bhumisparsha Mudra)
This mudra is performed by touching the earth with the right hand, usually with the fingers brushing the ground, while the left hand often rests on the knee in a seated position.
The name "Bhumisparsha" comes from Sanskrit, where "Bhumi" means "earth" and "Sparsha" means "contact" or "touch". Thus, this mudra is sometimes literally translated as "The touch of the Earth".
The Healing Mudra is associated with an important event in the Buddha's life, known as enlightenment or bodhi (or awakening).
According to Buddhist tradition, just before the Buddha achieved enlightenment, he was confronted by dark forces trying to dissuade him from his quest. In a critical moment, he touched the earth with his right hand to invoke the Earth to bear witness to his truth and rightness of his intention to achieve enlightenment. It is therefore a powerful gesture of resolve, determination and spiritual realization.
- Awakening and Spiritual Realization: This mudra symbolizes the moment of the Buddha's enlightenment, where he realized the ultimate truth about the nature of existence. It is a gesture of awareness, deep understanding and spiritual realization.
- Victory over Ignorance: By touching the earth, the Buddha called upon the Earth to bear witness to his righteousness and truth, thus symbolizing his victory over ignorance and the dark forces that sought to distract him from his quest.
- Healing and purification: This mudra is sometimes interpreted as a gesture of healing and purification, where the Buddha, by touching the earth, transmits his strength and compassion to suffering beings to help them heal from their mental and emotional afflictions.
- Grounding and Stability: The Healing Mudra also represents grounding and stability in spiritual practice. By touching the earth, the practitioner connects to the strength and solidity of Mother Earth, thus strengthening their commitment to the spiritual path.
Here is how to perform the Bhumisparsha Mudra:
- Sit in a meditation posture with your back straight.
- Place your right hand on your right knee, palm down.
- Extend fingers downward, lightly touching the floor.
- Let your left hand rest on your left knee, palm facing up.
7 - The Mudra of cosmic contemplation (Cosmic Mudra)
This mudra is usually performed by placing the hands in a bowl shape on top of each other in the lap, with the palms facing up, and aligning the thumbs to form a circle.
This mudra is associated with the contemplation of the universe, the interconnection of all things and the unity of existence. Here are some meanings and interpretations associated with the Mudra of Cosmic Contemplation:
- Unity and interconnectedness: The Cosmic Mudra symbolizes the fundamental unity of all things in the universe. By placing the hands together to form a circle, this mudra represents the interconnectedness of all phenomena and the holistic nature of reality.
- Balance and Harmony: This mudra also represents balance and harmony between the opposing forces of the universe. The bowl-shaped hands evoke the idea of a container that holds all of existence, while the circle formed by the thumbs represents unity and wholeness.
- Deep Meditation: The Cosmic Mudra is often used in meditation to help cultivate deep concentration and awareness of the interconnectedness of all things. By meditating with this mudra, one can develop a deeper understanding of the nature of existence and our place in the universe.
- Inner Peace: This mudra can also promote a feeling of inner peace and mental calm. By focusing on the image of the hands forming a bowl in the lap, one can cultivate a sense of security and inner stability.
- Transcendence of Duality: The Cosmic Mudra represents the transcendence of apparent dualities such as good and evil, day and night, high and low. By meditating with this mudra, one can realize the illusory nature of dualistic distinctions and perceive the fundamental unity that underlies all things.
To perform the Mudra of Cosmic Contemplation:
- Sit in a comfortable posture for meditation, with your back straight but relaxed.
- Clasp your hands in front of your stomach, placing your left hand in your right palm.
- Let your thumbs gently touch each other to form a circle.
- Keep your hands close to your body, just below your belly button.
8 - The Karana Mudra the mudra of the action gesture
The Karana Mudra is a symbolic hand gesture which is also known as the "gesture of action" or "gesture of dispelling obstacles". Although not as common as some other mudras in Buddhist iconography, it is used in some depictions of the Buddha.
This mudra is often performed with the hand raised, with different arrangements of the fingers. There are several variations of the Karana Mudra, but one of the most common versions is:
- Raise your right hand in front of you, palm facing out.
- Bend the middle and ring fingers, pressing them together with the thumb.
- Extend the other fingers upward, with the thumb generally held against the palm.
Symbolically, the Karana Mudra is associated with protection and the removal of obstacles. It is used to dispel negative influences, ward off evil spirits and remove obstacles on the spiritual path. This mudra is also used to evoke a feeling of strength and spiritual power.
In Hinduism, the Karana Mudra is sometimes associated with deities such as Ganesha, the god of wisdom and success, who is often depicted with this gesture to remove obstacles and promote success. It is also used in Indian ritual dances to invoke purification and protection.
In Buddhism, this mudra is sometimes used in meditation to help dispel disturbing thoughts and cultivate a calm, focused state of mind. It is also associated with practices aimed at removing obstacles on the path to spiritual awakening.
9 - The greeting mudra (Anjali Mudra)
The Greeting Mudra, also known as Anjali Mudra, is a sacred and symbolic greeting gesture in the spiritual traditions of India, such as Hinduism and Buddhism. “Mudra” refers to a symbolic gesture or posture, while “Anjali” refers to a gesture of respect or greeting.
This mudra is often performed by placing the palms together in front of the heart, with the fingers pointing upwards, and the thumbs resting lightly against the chest. Here is how to perform the Anjali Mudra:
- Stand or sit with your back straight but relaxed.
- Place your palms together in front of your heart, fingers pointing upward.
- Lightly press your thumbs against your chest.
- Keep your elbows slightly apart.
The Anjali Mudra is an expression of gratitude, devotion and reverence towards something greater than oneself, whether towards a deity, a spiritual teacher, or simply towards life itself. It is a greeting gesture that symbolizes the individual's union with the divine or with other people.
On a symbolic level, the Anjali Mudra represents unity and harmony. By joining our hands, we merge the opposing polarities present in ourselves and in the universe. Clasped hands represent the union of masculine and feminine, heaven and earth, body and spirit. This gesture also embodies respect and recognition of the interconnectedness of all forms of life.
The greeting mudra is often used at the beginning or end of spiritual practices, rituals or ceremonies to center, focus and connect with a sense of inner peace and compassion. It can also be used in daily life as a way to cultivate awareness and presence, as well as to express gratitude and respect towards others.
In Hinduism, the Anjali Mudra is used to greet deities, spiritual teachers, and other people with respect and devotion. It is often performed in combination with a bowing of the head to show deep respect.
In Buddhism, this mudra is used in prayers, meditations, and greeting rituals to express gratitude, devotion, and connection with the teachings of the Buddha and the Buddhist community.
10 - Kspana Mudra, the mudra of purification
The Ksepana Mudra, also known as the "purification mudra" or "rejection mudra", is a symbolic hand gesture used in some Buddhist and Hindu traditions.
In Ksepana Mudra, the hands are usually raised in front of the body, with the palms facing down and the fingers slightly separated. Then the hands are quickly lowered and extended forward in an ejection or rejection motion, as if getting rid of something.
Here is a common method to do it:
- Sit in a comfortable position for meditation, with your back straight but relaxed.
- Place your hands in front of your abdomen, palms facing down.
- Then, with a gentle, flowing movement, extend your arms out to the sides in an arc, then bring them together in front of your abdomen.
- Repeat this movement several times, visualizing each time that you are removing negative energies and impurities from your being.
Kshpana Mudra is often practiced in conjunction with breathing and visualization techniques to enhance its effectiveness. It is used in cleansing rituals, meditation practices and spiritual ceremonies to cleanse and purify the body, mind and soul.
Symbolically, the Ksepana Mudra represents the process of purification or liberation from negative thoughts, emotions or energies that may be present in the mind or body. It is used to symbolize the rejection of obstacles, suffering or limitations that hinder spiritual progress.
In practice, the Ksepana Mudra can be used in different ways. Some practitioners use it as part of purification meditations, where they visualize negative energies leaving their body with every movement of their hands. Others may use it as a gesture of emotional release, allowing tension and mental burdens to be released.
11 - Vitarka Mudra, The Mudra of discussion
In this mudra, the Buddha is depicted with the right hand raised to shoulder height, the thumb touching the index finger, while the other fingers are extended and straight.
This mudra is often performed by raising the right hand, with the thumb and index finger forming a circle, while the other fingers are extended upwards or slightly bent. Here is how to perform the Vitarka Mudra:
- Raise your right hand in front of you, with the arm generally slightly bent.
- Form a circle with your thumb and index finger, touching them gently.
- Extend the other fingers upward, keeping them straight and relaxed or slightly bent.
Symbolically, the Vitarka Mudra represents the transmission of wisdom and knowledge. The thumb touching the index finger forms a circle or wheel, symbolizing the continuous flow of wisdom. This mudra evokes the idea of discussion, teaching and spiritual dialogue.
The hand gesture in the Vitarka Mudra is also interpreted as a symbol of protection against fear and ignorance. It is said that the Buddha used this mudra to allay the doubts and worries of his disciples, thereby guiding them onto the path of truth and enlightenment.
In Buddhism, the Vitarka Mudra is often performed by depictions of the Buddha when teaching or discussing Buddhist teachings. It is used to symbolize the transmission of teachings and the communication of wisdom to help others on the path to enlightenment.
In Hinduism, this mudra is also used to represent the discussion and transmission of divine knowledge. It is sometimes associated with deities such as Saraswati, the goddess of wisdom and knowledge, when she is depicted teaching or sharing her teachings.
The Vitarka Mudra is often depicted in Buddhist art, whether in sculptures, paintings or statues of the Buddha. It is considered one of the most important manifestations of the Buddha's teachings and is often used to depict the scenes where the Buddha transmits his teachings to his disciples.
12 - Uttarabodhi Mudra also called "Gesture of Supreme Awakening"
The Uttarabodhi Mudra is a symbolic hand gesture that has its origins in Buddhist tradition. In this mudra, both hands are placed in front of the chest, fingers interlaced, and index fingers pointing upwards.
This mudra is often performed by raising both hands in front of the body, palms facing forward, fingers pointing upwards and gently touching each other. Here is how to perform the Uttarabodhi
- Stand or sit with your back straight but relaxed.
- Raise your arms in front of you, at shoulder height.
- Turn your palms forward, with fingers pointing upward.
- Gently press your fingertips together, leaving them slightly spaced apart.
Symbolically, the Uttarabodhi Mudra represents the supreme accomplishment, the achievement of enlightenment or awakening. The gesture of the hands evokes the image of a lotus flower in full bloom, symbolizing the fullness of awakened consciousness. Index fingers pointing upward represent elevation to the celestial realms or the achievement of the highest levels of wisdom and compassion.
The Uttarabodhi Mudra is also associated with qualities such as clarity, deep understanding and infinite compassion. By meditating on this mudra, practitioners can aspire to achieve a state of spiritual awakening and self-realization.
This mudra is often associated with depictions of the Buddha, particularly when he is depicted seated in meditation or teaching. It is considered an expression of the ultimate realization of truth and liberation from the sufferings of the endless cycle of birth and death, known as samsara.
The last word...
Buddha mudras offer a fascinating foray into the symbolic and spiritual richness of the Buddhist tradition. Through these simple but deeply meaningful gestures, we are invited to explore the connection between body, mind and universe.
Each mudra tells a story, transmits energy and embodies ancient wisdom. By practicing mudras, we can awaken our consciousness, find inner harmony and cultivate inner peace. Whether to meditate, heal, or simply connect to a deeper dimension of our being, mudras offer a powerful path to transformation and spiritual awakening.
By honoring these sacred gestures, we also honor the age-old tradition that continues to inspire and guide millions of people around the world. May Buddha's mudras always remind us of the beauty and power of spiritual practice in the journey toward self-realization and universal compassion.
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