Loulisa’s Indian Heritage

Different Mudras

Explanation of the different Mudras (hand gestures) represented in sculptures of the Buddha

The composition of a mudra is based on certain movements of the fingers; in other words, they constitute a highly stylized form of gestural communication. It is an external expression of ‘inner intention’, suggesting that such non-verbal communications are more powerful than the spoken word.

Another interesting significance of the mudra is that it reveals the secret imbued in the five fingers. In such a perspective, each of the fingers, starting with the thumb, is identified with one of the Five Elements: Sky, Wind, Fire, Water, and the Earth. Their contact with each other symbolizes the synthesis of these elements, significant because every form in this universe is felt to be composed of a unique combination of these elements. This contact between the various elements creates conditions favorable for the presence of the deity at rites performed to secure some desired object or benefit.

• Dharmachakra mudra – Gesture of teaching the Dharma
• Bhumisparsa mudra – Gesture of the Buddha’s taking the Earth as witness
• Dhyana Mudra or Samadhi Mudra – Gesture of meditation and concentration
• Abhaya Mudra – Gesture to assuage fear
• Varada mudra – Gesture of offering the gift of Dharma
• Vitarka mudra – Gesture of reasoned Exposition
• Anjali mudra- Gesture of requesting and veneration