Context:
Leader of Opposition referred to Abhaya Mudra in his speech.
Abhaya Mudra:
- Symbol of – Fearlessness
- Displayed by – 5th Dhyani Buddha, Amoghasiddhi
Other Mudras associated with Buddha:
| Mudras | Meaning |
| Bhumisparsha Mudra | Symbolizes Buddha’s enlightenment under the pipal tree. Often referred to as the “earth witness” and is usually associated with Akshobhya Buddha |
| Dhyana Mudra | Attainment of spiritual perfection. |
| Vitarka Mudra | Teaching and discussion or intellectual debate. |
| Varada Mudra | Charity, compassion or granting wishes. |
| Dharmachakra Mudra | ‘Turning the Wheel of the Dharma or Law’ Exhibited by Lord Buddha while he preached the first sermon in the Deer Park of Sarnath. |
| Anjali Mudra | Greetings, devotion, and adoration. |
| Uttarabodhi Mudra | Known for charging one with energy and symbolises perfection or supreme enlightenment. |
| Karana Mudra | Warding off evil. |
| Vajra Mudra | Importance of knowledge or supreme wisdom |
Source: The Indian Express
Previous Year Question
Lord Buddha’s image is sometimes shown with the hand gesture called ‘Bhumisparsha Mudra’. It symbolises:
[UPSC Civil Service Exam – 2012 Prelims]
(a) Buddha’s calling of the Earth to watch over Mara and to prevent Mara from disturbing his meditation.
(b) Buddha’s calling of the Earth to witness his purity and chastity despite the temptations of Mara.
(c) Buddha’s reminder to his followers that they all arise from the Earth and finally dissolve into the Earth, and thus this life is transitory.
(d) Both the statements (a) and (b) are correct in this context
Answer: (b)
