Abhaya Mudra

Source-This post on “Abhaya mudra” has been created based on the article “What is the significance of ‘abhaya mudra’, invoked by Rahul Gandhi in Parliament” published in “The Indian Express” on 3rd July 2024.

Why in the news?

Rahul Gandhi invoked the ‘abhaya mudra’ during his first speech as Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha.

About Abhaya Mudra

1. Abhaya Mudra is a gesture characterized by an open palm facing outward, often interpreted as a signal to stop.

2. It is known as the “fearlessness gesture,” derived from the Sanskrit word “abhaya” meaning fearlessness.

3. Symbolism: It represents protection, peace, and the dispelling of fear. In yoga, it is believed to promote courage and reduce fear and anxiety.

4. It is common in many South Asian religions, including Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Sikhism. It is particularly significant in Thailand and Laos, where it is associated with images of the walking Buddha.

5. According to a Stanford University newsletter,” the open palm gesture likely originated as a natural sign of good intentions, used since prehistoric times. The raised, unarmed hand proposed friendship or peace.

6. In antiquity, it also symbolized power, as seen in the “magna manus” of Roman Emperors, who used the gesture to legislate and grant peace simultaneously.

7. The gesture appears to have evolved from a universal form of human communication, later integrated into major South Asian religions.

Religious significance in Budhism

Buddha and Devadatta: A legend recounts that Devadatta, a jealous cousin of Buddha, tried to kill Buddha by unleashing a rampaging elephant. As the elephant approached, Buddha displayed the Abhaya Mudra, calming the animal instantly. This gesture thus symbolizes not only the calming of the senses but also the absence of fear.

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