Which Mudra Gesture of Buddha Statue Is Best at Home?
In Buddhism, certain hand movements called mudras are used to symbolise certain Buddhist concepts.
You can place them on statues in your house to express reverence for the teachings of Buddha, or you can use them during meditation to help you remain calm and focused on the task at hand. Which mudra do you think would work best in your house?
This article will discuss some of the most well-known mudras and provide explanations of their meanings. In addition to this, we will talk about which one would be a wonderful addition to your home!
Buddha Statue Meaning, Buddha Poses And Buddhist Mudras
There are a variety of postures and hand gestures that are used when sculpting Buddha statues (Buddhist mudras).
You need to be familiar with the specific Buddhist mudra and stance that the statue of the Buddha is exhibiting in order to discover its genuine identity. As a consequence of this, the meaning of the Buddha statue can be deduced from both the hand signals and the stance of the statue.
In addition to this, they share a tale on a Buddhist deity and the inspiring qualities that they possess.
Buddha statues, whether they are standing or seated, almost invariably represent a variety of hand symbols and movements.
The most popular mudras and Buddha positions are described in the following paragraphs, along with an explanation of who they are and what they represent.
In point of fact, becoming familiar with the characteristics of various Buddha sculptures will provide you with all of the information you require.
“Abhaya Mudra” Buddha Statue Meaning
In addition to being a sign of protection, the Abhaya mudra is a hand gesture that conveys a lack of fear. The Buddha is seen here with his right hand up and all of his fingers extended.
This mudra is typically seen in conjunction with another mudra that makes use of the left hand.
Although some statues display the Abhaya mudra with the left hand, depictions of Gautama Buddha, the historical Buddha, always depict the mudra with the flat hand on the right side of the body.
As a direct consequence of this, the Buddha places his right palm in a horizontal position in front of his chest with the palm facing away from the body.
In addition, his left hand is always positioned on the Dhyana or "meditation" mudra. In most instances, the alms bowl that is used by Buddhist monks is resting in the palm of his left hand.
Therefore, to determine whether or not your Buddha depicts the historical Buddha, look to see whether or not he is making the Abhaya mudra with his right hand. Although there are a few isolated outliers with more complicated deities like Amoghasiddhi, who uses the Abhaya mudra in the same manner as historical Buddha did, the vast majority of deities follow this rule.
Buddha Sculpture FAQs
Can Buddha Be Gifted?
There is a wide range of variety in the forms, dimensions, and modes of display that are accessible for Buddha statues.
Because the Buddha statue is a representation of Buddha's teaching, one might also give it as a present to a member of their family or someone else they care about.
The Buddha statue serves as both a symbol of Buddha's teaching and a representation of Buddha himself in bodily form.
What Are The 3 Main Beliefs Of Buddhism?
The Three Universal Truths, the Four Noble Truths, and the Noble Eightfold Path are the fundamental Buddhist teachings that have been attributed to Buddha. These teachings form the basis of Buddhism.
What Does The Female Buddha Symbolize?
She is the female counterpart of the bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara, who is also known as the "buddha-to-be." She is frequently depicted either standing at the right hand of her consort, Avalokiteshvara, or seated with her legs crossed while holding a lotus flower in its full bloom, both of which are associated with the concept of purity.
What Is The Difference Between Laughing Buddha And Gautam Buddha?
In this realm, which we refer to as the Saha-World, Gautama Buddha acquired enlightenment and assumed the role of the Buddha around 2,550 years ago. He is known as the Enlightened One.
It has been widely held for a very long time that the Buddha of Laughter is the reincarnation of the Bodhisattva Maitreya, who is also known as the Bodhisattva Ajita.
Which Laughing Buddha Is Good For Business Growth?
According to Feng Shui, the image of a laughing Buddha is a good luck charm.
They are brought into the house, the workplace, or any other setting with the intention of promoting joy, happiness, and prosperity. In today's post, I will discuss some of the lessons that may be learned from the Business Buddha. Laughing Buddha for businesspeople and one that is utilised for the expansion of businesses.
Common Variations Of Abhaya Mudra
The left hand gesture known as the Abhaya mudra is also seen on occasion with the hands of other Buddhas and bodhisattvas.
If this is the case, the deity almost always has something in the same hand as it.
For instance, a statue of Green Tara displays the Abhaya mudra by grasping the stem of a lotus blossom between her index finger and thumb while making the sign for "safe passage."
Those who are devoted to the Bodhisattva known as "Tara" frequently seek her protection against fear and the eight obscurations. Because of this, a female Buddha statue that makes this mudra with her left hand is typically shown as either Green Tara or White Tara.
Buy A “Protection” Buddhist Statue
The Abhaya mudra can be performed by a statue of the protection Buddha while the statue is seated, standing, or strolling.
The Buddha's statue represents the qualities of invincibility, fearlessness, and victory when this mudra is performed. In point of fact, a protection Buddha statue depicted practising the Abhaya mudra is a fairly prevalent motif in Buddhist art.
This is due to the fact that it inspires unyielding confidence in the Dharma, which is one of the core tenets of Buddhism.
The Origin Of The Abhaya Mudra
Legends handed down by Buddhists explain where the idea of a Buddha statue offering protection came from. During the time that Shakyamuni Buddha was alive, this significant occurrence took place.
One afternoon, when a group of people were going through the elephant forest in front of an elephant, the elephant suddenly emerged from the forest and began racing at the group of people.
The Buddha, on the other hand, lifted his right hand and demonstrated the Abhaya mudra in a composed manner. As a direct consequence of this, the elephant gave up its charge and retreated deeper into the forest.
The Buddha had saved many lives, including his own, via his ability to remain calm and faithful.
Because of this, the significance of the Buddha's hand emblem is used to encourage followers to be unafraid, to have faith, and to have endurance.
“Dharmachakra Mudra” Buddha Statue Meaning
The Dharmachakra mudra is a hand gesture that represents the beginning of the Dharma teachings that are applicable to our era as a metaphor for the spinning of the "Wheel of Dharma."
As a result, the spinning wheel is a symbol that the Buddha has imparted the Dharma to all sentient creatures.
As a consequence of this, the Buddha makes the gesture at the level of the chest since the Buddhist teachings originate from the heart of the Buddha.
It is customary to use both hands when performing the Dharmachakra mudra.
1) To begin, the right hand is positioned so that the palm is facing outward and the index finger is touching the thumb. The hand is at chest level.
2) The next step involves turning the palm of the left hand inward so that the index finger and thumb of the left hand can contact the circle together.
Significance Of Dharmachakra Mudra
The fact that this mudra signifies the beginning of Buddhism lends it a great deal of significance as a Buddhist symbol.
As a result, the only image that can adequately represent it is that of a "Sammasambuddha." This category of Buddha is one who came to Buddhism on their own, without having previously been instructed in the religion by another Buddha.
In addition to this, they made the decision to impart the teachings of the Dharma to other sentient beings.
There are very few instances in which a Sammasambuddha manifests himself.
Because of this, we are only familiar with a small percentage of them. However, those that we are familiar with have a major place in the annals of Buddhist history (and future).
The Buddha of our time, Shakyamuni, the Buddha of the past, Dipankara, the Buddha of the future, Maitreya, and the Primordial Buddha, Vairocana, are all examples of Sammasambuddhas.
Buy A “Wheel Of Dharma” Buddha Statue
After the historical Buddha attained enlightenment, he shared his newfound wisdom with his five closest colleagues in the form of his first sermon.
In addition to that, thousands of Buddhist heaven-dwelling beings called devas and brahmas came down to observe the event.
This pivotal moment in Buddhist history took place in Sarnath's Deer Park, which is considered to be the birthplace of Buddhism. The Buddha made his first public presentation of the Dharma teachings in Deer Park, which was the location of that lecture.
During the sermon, the Buddha imparted the Dharma to all sentient life, which is considered to be the beginning of the "Wheel of Dharma."
Because it represents the beginning of Buddhist practise in our day, this statue of Buddha carries with it a tremendous deal of significance. As a direct consequence of this, the Dharmachakra mudra is considered to be the most monumental of all of the Buddha positions.
“Dhyana Mudra” Buddha Statue Meaning
During his time spent meditating beneath the Bodhi tree, the historical Buddha is said to have made use of the Dhyana mudra.
Since it is a symbol for meditation, statues depicting Buddhas and Bodhisattvas in the act of meditating will always show them making the Dhyana mudra.
In addition, the Dhyana mudra is a hand gesture that is performed by lay Buddhists while they are engaged in the practise of meditation.
The seated position is always used when depicting the Dhyana mudra. The seated position known as double lotus is typically used for Buddha statues.
However, you can accomplish the same thing by crossing your legs while seated on the floor. This is sufficient.
The back of the right hand is then positioned so that it is resting on the palm of the left hand, and both hands are now positioned so that they are lying completely flat in the lap. In addition to that, the three points at the top of the thumbs come together to form a triangle.
It cannot be overstated how significant the symbolism of the triangle is. According to Buddhist doctrine, the triangle is a representation of the harmony that exists between the Buddha, the Dharma, and the Sangha.
In addition to this, the triangle's interior houses a "mystic fire" that has the power to eradicate all forms of impurity (impurities).
Consequently, one is able to maintain a high level of attention throughout the practise of meditation, and the mind does not become distracted.
Dhyana Mudra With Alms Bowl
The Buddha was in his final days before he attained enlightenment when a wealthy woman observed him meditating under the Bodhi tree and confused him for a tree deity. This occurred in the days just before the Buddha attained enlightenment.
She had the intention of making a gift to the divine being, so she positioned a rice bowl made of pure gold in the Buddha's right palm as an offering.
Despite this, the Buddha removed the rice from the bowl and threw the golden bowl into the nearby river.
In addition to this, he divided the rice into portions, with each portion indicating one day left until he would reach the highest possible level of enlightenment.
As a consequence of this, statues of Buddhas and Bodhisattvas are typically depicted executing the Dhyana mudra while carrying an alms bowl in the palm of the right hand.
In point of fact, the alms bowl of a Buddhist monk carries with it a great deal of significance in the religion of Buddhism. Giving up one's attachment to the material world and all of its trappings is symbolised by the bowl. Teachings on the Dharma are so valuable to Buddhists that they would happily give up wealth, fame, and other pleasures in exchange for them.
In addition, adherents have the belief that the bowl represents the three nectars that can cleanse the devotee's mind of the three toxins that are greed, hatred, and illusion.
Variations Of The Dhyana Mudra
There are instances in which Buddha statues only represent the Dhyana mudra being performed with the left hand, such as when the Buddha is also executing another mudra with the right hand.
For instance, Shakyamuni Buddha would use his left hand to do the Dhyana mudra while he would use his right hand to perform the primary mudra. In spite of this, the significance of the Dhyana mudra has not changed.
“Bhumisparsha Mudra” Buddha Statue Meaning
While the Buddha was meditating beneath the Bodhi tree, a mighty demon named Mara came at the precise moment when the Buddha was on the approach of attaining supreme enlightenment.
The demon attempted to sway him away from his objective by dangling before him the allure of immense wealth and the joys of the world.
In spite of this, the Buddha did not become disheartened and turned to meditation in order to fortify his determination.
After devoting the entire night to meditation, he was able to overcome the diabolical allurements of Mara and arrive at the pinnacle of enlightenment.
By making the Bhumisparsha mudra at the same instant when Mara was finally vanquished, the Buddha pleaded with the earth goddess to be present at the moment of his victory.
As a consequence of this, the significance of the Bhumisparsha mudra is that the inner demons of earthly temptation are vanquished by the Dharma. The earth goddess heard his appeal and answered by wringing her hair out, which resulted in the creation of a flood that washed away the demon Mara.
How To Display Bhumisparsha Mudra
By making a light contact with the ground with the middle finger of his right hand, the historical Buddha was able to call forth the earth goddess.
In addition, the Buddha made the gesture as he was reclining in full lotus stance beneath the Bodhi tree.
The following actions constitute the Bhumisparsha mudra:
The Buddha is depicted with his right arm extended over his right knee, palm facing inward, and his middle finger lightly touching the ground.
The alms bowl is lying in the palm of the left hand, which is sitting flat in the lap with the palm facing up.
This mudra is almost never used by anyone other than Shakyamuni Buddha because of the deep connections it shares with him. In addition, the Buddha is depicted at all times sitting in full lotus position while making the Bhumisparsha mudra gesture.
“Varada Mudra” Buddha Statue Meaning
The Varada mudra is used by Buddhas and Bodhisattvas to convey the idea that they are about to bestow a blessing, such as knowledge, medicine, or compassion.
As a consequence of this, the meaning of the Varada mudra invites common Buddhists to engage in acts of non-selfishness and to walk the path of the Dharma.
The Buddhas have accumulated a vast quantity of merit over the course of their thousands upon thousands of lives as Bodhisattvas, which they did by acting in a selfless and generous manner.
The gesture known as the Varada mudra was created as a way to show gratitude for all of these acts of generosity.
These noteworthy acts of charity include renunciation and vows, both of which are commonplace in the annals of Buddhist history.
For instance, the Buddhist deities Shakyamuni Buddha, Manjushri, Amitabha, Tara, and Medicine Buddha are all examples of individuals who have successfully fulfilled enormous vows of generosity.
In point of fact, Shakyamuni Buddha engaged in one of the most selfless actions in the history of generosity when he gave up his kingdom and his inheritance. In addition to this, the Buddha would independently uncover the Dharma and demonstrate to all sentient life the way to attain enlightenment.
How To Display Varada Mudra
In a seated position, the Varada mudra is typically depicted on Buddha sculptures by placing the right hand on top of the right knee.
In addition to this, the palm of the right hand is facing away from the body and the hand is held in a flat position.
In addition, the Varada mudra can be displayed on statues of Buddha in any position, including seated, standing, or strolling.
The gesture known as the Varada mudra is performed with one hand. As a direct consequence of this, the other hand of the deity will frequently be positioned in a second mudra.
Medicine Buddha is pictured making a varada mudra, which is another typical depiction of the gesture (Bhaisajyaguru).
The Pharmaceuticals In order to convey the idea that he is providing sentient life with the gift of medicine, Buddha makes use of the mudra.
In addition to this, the Medicine Buddha is depicted with a sprig of the myrobalan plant wedged in his right hand between his thumb and forefinger.
In ancient India, the myrobalan plant was made into a herbal cure that was used to treat a variety of conditions, including skin diseases, infections, and eye ailments.
It was incredibly productive, and as a result, it is still utilised in a significant way today.
“Vitarka Mudra” Buddha Statue Meaning
In most depictions of the Buddha, he is seen seated; but, when he is performing the Virtaka mudra, he is assisting others in achieving enlightenment, and therefore he can be depicted either walking or standing.
As a sign of peace, the palm of either the right or left hand is turned upwards while the thumb and forefinger are brought together.
The other hand is positioned so that its palm is facing downward to represent the act of giving and the explanation of dharma.
The meaning of the Vitarka mudra places an emphasis on the significance of learning, conversation, and intellectual discourse.
Without a doubt, the complete annihilation of ignorance is necessary in order for light to emerge victorious over darkness.
Therefore, conversing with one another and engaging in intellectual debate are crucial instruments that will keep individuals from veering away from the teachings of the Buddha.
How To Display Vitarka Mudra
The dot formed by the index finger and thumb of the right hand is used to form a circle. The palm of the right hand is held high and facing away from the body.
The circle is a symbol of the continuous flow of energy, which represents the idea that there is only perfection and no beginning or end.
In addition, the palm of the left hand is looking up while the rear of the hand is resting flat in the lap. The alms bowl of a Buddhist monk is traditionally held in the palm of their hand, and the Buddha is depicted sitting in full lotus position.
The Origin Of The Vitarka Mudra
In the beginning of the Buddha's ministry, when he was still travelling the world and disseminating the Dharma, he forbade his monks from participating in arguments.
However, when Buddhism gained a huge following, it started to attract a lot of interest from laypeople as well as academics. This attention came from both sides.
As a result, the Buddha modified his strategy and started participating in open disputes in public settings.
In point of fact, the Buddha was a highly brilliant public speaker, and he defended the Dharma against anyone who dared to criticise him in an extremely effective manner.
As a direct consequence of this, the teachings of the Buddha were eventually adopted across Asia and the rest of the world.
There are currently approximately 500 million Buddhists around the world who have acknowledged and adopted the Dharma teachings.
Reclining Buddha Statue Meaning
Despite popular belief, reclining Buddha statues do not represent a specific Buddhist mudra.
This is in contrast to statues of Buddha that are always depicted with a mudra, whether they are standing, strolling, or seated. Instead, the image depicts the Buddha in a reclining position while lying on his right side.
Additionally, the head of the reclining Buddha statue is supported by the hand on the right side of the statue. As a consequence of this, the palm of the right hand is either propped up on the man's elbow or placed under the person's head on a pillow to provide support for the head.
Reclining Buddha Entering Parinirvana
The meaning of the statue of the Buddha that is depicted lying down is very significant in Buddhist teachings.
This is due to the fact that the statue of the Buddha depicting him in the reclining position portrays the historical Buddha in the final few minutes of his life in the earthly realm, when he was resting on his right side.
The Buddha has reached a state known as Parinirvana and is about to enter it.
At the end of their existence on earth, an enlightened being is said to have attained parinirvana if they were able to acquire the highest possible level of enlightenment during their time on earth.
When the Buddha reaches the state of Parinirvana, it indicates that he has overcome the cycle of reincarnation and is on his way to being freed from the cycle of samsara.
Standing Buddha Statue Meaning
Because the Buddha is either standing or walking in this stance, recognising it as the Standing Buddha pose is a rather straightforward endeavour. The meaning of the Standing Buddha statue can be deduced from the hand motions and symbols, just as it can be from the meaning of other Buddha stances.
The Varada and Abhaya mudras are the kind of Buddhist hand gestures that are most frequently seen associated with standing Buddha statues. As a result, the meaning of standing Buddhas is typically to encourage compassion and bravery in followers of the religion.
After he attained enlightenment, the historical Buddha was seen practising the standing Buddha stance rather frequently. In addition, it is usual practise for standing Buddha sculptures to display the identical mudra with both hands rather than just one.
Laughing Buddha Statue Meaning
People who aren't Buddhists frequently get the statue of the Laughing Buddha and the historical Buddha mixed up. This is especially true in China.
On the other hand, the meanings of the many laughing Buddha stances are wholly dissimilar in many respects, particularly with regard to their outward appearances.
Because of this, a Buddha statue depicting a plump and jovial Buddha is known as "Budai," and he is a figure that is exclusive to Chinese Buddhism.
The Origin Of Laughing Buddha
Laughing Buddha is one of the most well-known manifestations of the Chinese god Budai, who is often referred to as "Fat Buddha."
However, the character of a Laughing Buddha statue is actually based on a real life Chinese monk who lived during the 10th century ACE. This monk lived at the time period specified in the previous sentence. In addition to this, the name Budai can be literally translated from Chinese as "cloth sack."
In point of fact, the Laughing Buddha was constantly seen carrying a sack made of fabric over his shoulder, which was stuffed with the little goods he owned.
One interpretation of the symbolism of the Laughing Buddha statue is that it would bring followers financial success.
Devotees think that massaging his belly would bring you good fortune, despite the fact that this practise may appear to be somewhat childish.
In addition, a statue of the Laughing Buddha is sometimes shown together with young children as a representation of prosperity.
In conclusion, but certainly not least, the meaning of the Laughing Buddha statue characterises him as a kind and caring individual.
Buddhist Mudras (Hand Gestures) and Their Meanings
What precisely is a mudra? Sign is conveyed by the use of the Sanskrit word mudra. It's possible that during your yoga class, you performed a mudra.
Or, if you examine any depiction of the Buddha, you will notice that he is constantly making a mudra. A mudra is typically depicted as a hand gesture when it is only being discussed on a surface level. Nevertheless, mudras have a deeper meaning on a spiritual level.
You might even claim that your life or your house is a mudra if you want to be really literal about it. It has the potential to stand for something really significant.
As a way to serve as a daily spiritual reminder, the feng shui of your home might benefit from the incorporation of Buddhist symbols.
The Buddha is meant to symbolise the untapped potential for genuine happiness and goodness that resides within every single sentient entity, including humans.
If you want to take this a step further, you can choose a god to exhibit in your home that is performing a certain mudra in order to boost your spiritual aspiration.
When it comes to feng shui, the presence of Buddhist symbolism is in no way obligatory.
On the other hand, if it is something that piques your interest, then you are reading the appropriate article! It is possible that mental imagery of any of the mudras, or even physically performing the mudras, could be beneficial for any part of your home.
The following are some of the more popular Buddhist mudras, along with their respective meanings.
Dhyana: Meditation Mudra
The dhyana (or meditation mudra) is commonly used in the Mahayana tradition of Buddhism, a path of compassion for all living beings.
With this hand gesture, you place the right hand on top of the left hand, palms face up and thumbs lightly touching.
The thumbs touch to symbolize the union and enlightenment of masculine and feminine in mind, body, and spirit.
Typically this mudra is depicted with the hands resting in the lap or at the heart center.
Best placement: Since this mudra is connected to meditation and contemplation, it would be supportive for the meditation area of your home.
Bhumisparasa: Earth Touching Mudra
One of the most well-known mudras is called bhumisparsha, which literally means "earth touching."
This mudra is frequently associated with Shakyamuni, the historical Buddha, when he is depicted in a seated position. The right hand is held in a poised position with the palm facing inward and the fingertips pointing downward so that they are "touching the earth."
The dhyana (meditation) mudra is being performed with the left hand. During the period of his meditation in which he attained enlightenment, the Buddha manifested this mudra by touching the ground.
The waking was observed by the earth, which was also awakened.
Because the Buddha is depicted as having his hand on the ground, this mudra can help you feel more connected to and supported by the earth in any room of your house. Because of its connection to the element of earth, the centre of your home is another excellent location to put a feng shui altar.
Vitarka: Teaching Or Discussion Mudra
In Buddhist iconography, the hand gesture known as vitarka, which can be translated as "teaching" or "discussion," is used to represent the passing on of the dharma, also known as the Buddha's truth teachings.
When performing this mudra, the thumb and index finger are brought together to form a circle. This mudra represents an unbroken flow of knowledge.
The remaining three fingers are pointed upwards towards the skies, but the palm is turned away from the speaker. This is held roughly at the level of the chest.
The optimal venue for this mudra is anywhere that allows you to receive and discuss teachings that support your personal development and enlightenment. The images of this mudra would be beneficial to have in areas of the home associated with learning and knowledge, such as a library, study, or the Gen/Knowledge area.
Abhaya: Fearless Mudra
The abhaya mudra is a gesture that represents bravery and guarding against danger. The meditative (dhyana) mudra is performed with the left hand, while the right hand is held in an upright position with the palm facing outward.
Everyone's pointing their fingers upward, in the direction of the heavens.
The normal position of the right hand is somewhere between the chest and the shoulders.
This mudra is connected to the idea of strong compassion, in which you are able to let go when it is required. The best placement for this phrase is:
If you feel the need to establish your boundaries while simultaneously opening your heart with confidence, you might find that the following mudra is helpful at home.
Because the earth element is connected to boundaries, this mudra has the potential to encourage more fearlessness in how you interact with the outside world.
Dharmachakra: Dharma Wheel Mudra
In this position, Buddha's fingers are kept close together at chest level while forming a circle with his thumb and forefinger using both hands. The circled fingers are touching each other. After achieving enlightenment, Buddha is said to have used his fingers to teach his students and turn the Dharmachakra, also known as the wheel of righteousness.
The term "dharmachakra" refers to the process through which the Buddha's teachings are disseminated into the wider world and the turning of the wheels that contain those teachings.
This mudra calls for the usage of both hands.
Two circles (wheels!) are produced when the index finger of the right hand touches the thumb of the right hand, and the index finger of the left hand touches the thumb of the left hand.
In front of the palm of the right hand, which is facing outward, the palm of the left hand is turned inside. In most instances, the mudra will be performed in front of the heart.
It is reported that the Buddha used this mudra when he first began teaching after he attained enlightenment. This would make for the best placement.
Because it spins, a wheel often serves as a metaphor for movement and change. In a similar fashion, displaying the dharma chakra mudra in your home can encourage movement and fluidity throughout the space.