Dhyāna mudrā
Hands rest in the lap in a meditation gesture. Exact placement and ritual meaning vary.
Editorial visual-culture note 1. This page does not give ritual instruction.
Traditions · Gesture in Buddhist art
Eight mudrā studies
Use these panels to recognise gestures in art. Do not infer that copying a hand shape reproduces a lineage ritual or spiritual result.
Visual orientation only
Descriptions and hand positions vary across periods, regions and ritual systems.
Bhūmisparśa mudrā
The right hand reaches toward the earth in imagery associated with the Buddha's awakening narrative.
Editorial visual-culture note 2. This page does not give ritual instruction.
Abhaya mudrā
An open raised palm is commonly read as reassurance or fearlessness.
Editorial visual-culture note 3. This page does not give ritual instruction.
Vitarka mudrā
A teaching or discussion gesture often forms a circle with thumb and finger.
Editorial visual-culture note 4. This page does not give ritual instruction.
Dharmacakra mudrā
A two-handed teaching gesture is associated with turning the Dharma wheel in Buddhist art.
Editorial visual-culture note 5. This page does not give ritual instruction.
Varada mudrā
A lowered open palm is commonly associated with giving, welcome or generosity.
Editorial visual-culture note 6. This page does not give ritual instruction.
Añjali mudrā
Palms together can express greeting, respect or devotion across several Asian traditions.
Editorial visual-culture note 7. This page does not give ritual instruction.
Vajra mudrā
A ritual gesture used in some esoteric traditions should be learned from an authorised lineage rather than reconstructed from a website.
Editorial visual-culture note 8. This page does not give ritual instruction.