Mudra is an ancient Sanskrit word meaning “sign” or “gesture.” In the art history context, a mudra is a symbolic hand gesture used in Hindu, Buddhist and Jaina art as a way of conveying religious and spiritual meanings. They are often used to signify the transfer of power between deities and humans or to bring about certain conditions such as fertility, protection, or prosperity.
The earliest known mudras date back to 500 BC and were found in Indian statuary from the time of the Maurya Empire. In Hinduism, the gestures are often associated with specific gods and goddesses such as Vishnu, Shiva and Durga. For example, Vishnu’s common mudra is called Abhaya Mudra which symbolizes protection from danger.
In Buddhism, mudras are also associated with specific deities but can also convey different emotions and states of being.
One famous gesture is called Bhumisparsha Mudra which symbolizes Buddha’s calling upon the Earth Goddess to witness his enlightenment. Other mudras may signify concentration or meditation.
In Jainism, there are typically more complex mudras that combine multiple hand gestures to signify different aspects of their philosophical beliefs such as Ahimsa (non-violence) or Aparigraha (non-attachment).
Mudras have become an integral part of Indian culture since ancient times and can be seen in many forms of traditional art such as painting, sculpture and dance. They can also be found in modern forms such as body tattoos or even in popular culture like Bollywood dance moves.
Conclusion:
Mudras have been used for centuries in Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism to express religious and spiritual meaning through hand gestures. These symbols have become an integral part of Indian culture today and can be found in many forms including traditional art forms like sculpture and painting, body tattoos, Bollywood dance moves and more.
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