Dhyāna Mudrā
Dhyāna Mudrā (ध्यान मुद्रा) is the gesture of meditation, in which both hands rest in the lap, right hand over left, with the tips of the thumbs touching to form a triangle. It is the classic meditation mudrā associated with the Buddha and widely used in Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain meditation traditions.
Overview
Dhyāna Mudrā is the mudrā of deep meditation and concentration. The two hands represent the two wings of enlightenment, and the triangle formed by the thumbs represents the Three Jewels (Buddha, Dharma, Sangha) in Buddhism or the three guṇas in Hindu philosophy. The mudrā symbolizes perfect balance, inner stillness, and the state of samādhi. It is depicted in countless statues of the Buddha in meditation and is used in various dhyāna and bhāvanā practices.
Method
The practitioner sits in a meditative posture. Both hands rest in the lap, with the right hand placed on top of the left (or vice versa in some traditions), palms facing upward. The tips of the thumbs gently touch, forming a triangle or oval shape. The hands are placed at the navel or lower abdomen level, and the elbows are relaxed at the sides. The practitioner maintains this gesture throughout the meditation session.
Benefits and Purpose
Traditional texts claim Dhyāna Mudrā:
- Facilitates deep meditation and concentration
- Balances the body’s energy
- Symbolizes the union of wisdom and compassion
- Calms the mind and promotes inner stillness
- Is essential for achieving the state of samādhi
Verification Notes
- The mudrā is universally associated with the Buddha in meditation.
- Described in various Buddhist and Hindu meditation manuals.
- Audited against Wikipedia (September 2026).