The Varadamudra () or Abheeshta Mudra is a ''

mudra A mudra (; , , "seal", "mark", or "gesture"; ) is a symbolic or ritual gesture or pose in Hinduism, Jainism and Buddhism. While some mudras involve the entire body, most are performed with the hands and fingers. As well as being spiritual ges ...

'', a symbolic gesture featured in the iconography of

Indian religions Indian religions, sometimes also termed Dharmic religions or Indic religions, are the religions that originated in the Indian subcontinent. These religions, which include Buddhism, Hinduism, Jainism, and Sikhism,Adams, C. J."Classification o ...

. It indicates a gesture by the hand and symbolises dispensing of boons. It is represented by the palm held outward, with the fingers outstretched and pointing downwards. Sometimes, the thumb and the index finger meet, forming a circle. The Varadamudra and the

Abhayamudra The abhayamudra () is a mudra (gesture) that is the gesture of reassurance and safety, which dispels fear and accords divine protection and bliss in Hinduism, Buddhism, and other Indian religions. The right hand is raised to shoulder height, wit ...

are the most common of several other mudras seen on divine figures in the art of

References

* ''Dictionary of Hindu Lore and Legend'' () by Anna Dallapiccola

External links

* Hand gestures Hindu iconography Hindu philosophical concepts Mudras {{Buddhism-stub