What is the significance of the Dharmachakra Pravartan Mudra?a)It is t...
The Dharmachakra Pravartan Mudra is the posture in which the Buddha is shown seated with the right hand raised in the gesture of teaching and the left hand resting on the lap with palm facing upwards. Therefore, the correct answer is (C) It is the gesture of teaching.
What is the significance of the Dharmachakra Pravartan Mudra?a)It is t...
The significance of the Dharmachakra Pravartan Mudra is that it represents the gesture of teaching.
The Dharmachakra Pravartan Mudra is a hand gesture commonly seen in Buddhist art and iconography. It is also known as the "Turning the Wheel of Dharma" gesture. This mudra holds great significance in Buddhism as it symbolizes the Buddha's first sermon, in which he taught the Four Noble Truths to his disciples.
Symbolism of the Gesture:
The Dharmachakra Pravartan Mudra is formed by joining the thumb and index finger of both hands to create a circle or wheel-like shape. The remaining three fingers of each hand are extended upwards. This gesture represents the turning or setting in motion of the wheel of Dharma, which signifies the Buddha's teachings.
Gesture of Teaching:
The primary significance of this mudra is that it represents the gesture of teaching. It signifies the Buddha's act of imparting his profound knowledge and wisdom to his followers. By assuming this mudra, the Buddha is depicted as a teacher who guides his disciples towards the path of enlightenment and liberation from suffering.
The First Sermon:
The Dharmachakra Pravartan Mudra is particularly associated with the Buddha's first sermon, also known as the "Dhammacakkappavattana Sutta" or the "Discourse on the Turning of the Wheel of Dharma." In this sermon, the Buddha expounded the Four Noble Truths, which form the foundation of Buddhist philosophy. By turning the wheel of Dharma, the Buddha initiated the spread of his teachings and established the Buddhist community.
Symbolic Meaning:
The wheel-like shape created by the joined fingers represents the wheel of Dharma, which is often depicted with eight spokes. These spokes symbolize the Noble Eightfold Path, which is the path to enlightenment as taught by the Buddha. The extended fingers represent the upward movement towards higher spiritual realms and the liberation from suffering.
Conclusion:
In summary, the Dharmachakra Pravartan Mudra holds great significance in Buddhism as it represents the gesture of teaching. It symbolizes the Buddha's first sermon and the turning of the wheel of Dharma. By assuming this mudra, the Buddha is portrayed as a compassionate teacher who guides his disciples on the path to liberation.