ABHAYA MUDRA (Syllabus: GS Paper 1 – History)

Context: In his inaugural address as Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha invoked the abhaya mudra, symbolizing reassurance and fearlessness, marking a significant gesture in parliamentary proceedings.

Abhaya Mudra

• About: It is associated with the Buddha immediately after he obtained Enlightenment, “portraying a sense of the security, serenity, and compassion that derive from enlightenment” (Buswell and Lopez).
• Symbol across South Asian Religions: It is common in Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Sikhism, symbolizing fearlessness and protection.
• Meaning of 'Abhaya': 'Abhaya' in Sanskrit means fearlessness; the gesture signifies peace and protection, promoting courage and reducing fear and anxiety in yoga practices.
• Prominence in Buddhism: Most prominently featured in Buddhism, particularly in Thailand and Laos, associated with images of the walking Buddha.
• Historical and Natural Gesture: Described as a "natural gesture" used since pre-historic times to signify peace or friendship, reflecting goodwill and non-aggression.
  

  Mudras in Buddhism

  • Meaning: In Buddhism, mudras refer to hand and arm gestures used in rituals and depicted in Buddhist art, symbolizing various aspects of enlightenment.
  • Association with Buddharupa: Mudras are commonly seen in depictions of Buddharupa, with each gesture conveying specific meanings and moods reflective of the Buddha's spiritual realizations.
  • Historical Development: Initially, the Buddha was symbolically represented rather than in physical form, with early depictions emerging around the first millennium CE in Gandhara and Gupta art styles.
  • Evolution and Expansion: As Mahayana and Vajrayana Buddhism spread, mudras diversified in iconography and ritual practice, adapting to reflect new teachings and cultural influences beyond India.