The Namaskara mudra is the gesture of prayer. It is also known as the gesture for greetings, devotion, and adoration. Hands are held close to the chest. The palms and fingers are pressed together and pointed upwards. The Namaskara mudra is made when saying “Namaste,” which means: “May the goodness…
Mudras
Karana Mudra
The Karana mudra is the gesture of warding off evil. This mudra emanates energy to rid such obstacles as sickness or negative thoughts. The right hand is at chest level with palm facing forward. The thumb touches the two middle fingers. The index and little finger are raised straight upwards….
Vitarka Mudra
The Vitarka mudra is the gesture of teaching and discussion. The right hand is at chest level with palm facing outwards. The tips of the index finger and thumb are joined creating a mystic circle. The left hand is on the lap with palm facing upwards. The tips of the…
Dharmachakra Mudra
The Dharmachakra mudra is the gesture of Buddha’s first sermon, referred to as turning the wheel of the Dharma. It is the mudra used by the Buddha while he preached his first sermon after he attained enlightenment. Given the placement of fingers near the heart, the teaching is seen to…
Abhaya Mudra
The Abhaya mudra is the gesture of fearlessness and protection. It is the mudra used by the Buddha immediately after he attained enlightenment. The Abhaya mudra signifies a sense of strength and inner security. It emanates the potential to subdue dangerous forces. The right hand is raised shoulder height with the…
Dhyana Mudra
The Dhyana mudra is the gesture of meditation and concentration. It is the mudra used by the Buddha under the bodhi tree when he attained enlightenment. The Dhyana mudra signifies the attainment of spiritual perfection. It emanates perfect balance and stillness. The mudra is made when sitting. The hands are…
Introduction to Mudras
Mudra, the Sanskrit word for “gesture,” “mark,” or “seal,” is a symbolic gesture in Buddhism and Hinduism. In the Buddhist tradition, mudras are seen on the hands of Buddha images. The Buddha speaks to us in a silent language through the positioning of his hands and fingers. These unspoken words…