Home Decor Wooden Lord Gauthama Buddha Sitting on Double Petal Lotus With Vitarka Mudra Handcrafted Sculpture 37"

VITARKA - Teaching Transmission: The Vitarka Mudra, often referred to as the "gesture of discussion," represents intellectual discourse, argumentation, and the transmission of Buddhist teachings.

In this mudra, the right hand is held at chest level with the palm facing outward. The thumb and index finger touch to form a circle, while the other fingers extend upward. Occasionally, the left hand is positioned at hip level with the palm facing outward, the thumb and index finger forming a circle, and the fingers pointing downward.

The circle formed by the thumb and index finger symbolizes the Wheel of Dharma. This gesture is primarily used in depictions of the Great Buddhas and signifies one aspect of the Buddha's teaching phase—namely, the discourse or teaching of the Dharma. The circle, representing completeness and eternity, mirrors the perfection and perpetual nature of the Buddha's Law.

In Mahayana Buddhism, particularly in East Asia, the Vitarka Mudra has numerous variations. In Tibetan Buddhism, it serves as a mystical gesture associated with Taras and Bodhisattvas, with specific differences depending on the deities in Yab-yum. Beyond its Buddhist context, this mudra also appears in Christian iconography, demonstrating its broader symbolic significance.

Maintenance: Dust it gently using a dry cotton cloth and fix it away from direct sunlight.