The various Mudras in Hindu iconography include Abhaya, Jnana, Tarjani, Varada, Vismaya, Vitarka, Anjali and Dhyana. Mudra is a symbolic gesture. They help to authenticate certain inner states. Some Mudras involve the whole body while mainly fingers and hands are involved. The mudras are briefly given below:
Abhaya Mudra
The word Abhaya means Fearlessness. In this Mudra the right hand is raised with the palm of the hand that is facing forwards. This Mudra indicates blessing, shield and assurance. As there is no weapon in the hands it is indicative of peace and friendship.
Jnana Mudra
This Mudra is considered as symbol of knowledge. This is done generally along with other yogic postures. Here the hand is placed in level with the heart. The palm is facing upwards. Ring is formed by the thumb along with the ring finger. This position indicates wisdom which is considered as a quality of the concerned God.
Tarjani
Here the index finger is raised that indicates a risk or caution. The gesture is that of warding off evil.
Varada Mudra
The left hand is pointed towards the believer with an open arm and the fingers are pointing downwards. This indicates that the concerned God is prepared to grant a wish. This position is basically an indication of compassion.
Vismaya
This is the gesticulation of wonder or dismay. This expression is made by God when he recognizes the supremacy of another god who is also present.
Vitarka
In this gesture the thumb and index finger forms a ring. Through this position God proves his clean judgement and scholarly insight. If the concerned God stretches out his hand to the observer it indicates that he wishes to give instruction. The right hand is pointed upward and the left hand is pointed downwards.
Anjali
The hands are held loosely with the palms being together and the fingers are stretched. If this position is held in front of the chest it indicates worship. If the position is held in front of the forehead it indicates a greeting. This is a customary gesture.
Dhyana
This is a meditative pose where the right hand is place inside the left hand in the lap with the palms turned up. This gesture also known as yogamudra indicates a form of intense meditation. Here the expression is that of overcoming the world of appearance through enlightenment.
