Introduction
Recently, Rahul Gandhi invoked the ‘abhaya mudra’ in his speech as Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, emphasizing its symbolism of reassurance and fearlessness. In political context, Gandhi portrayed the government as a regime based on fear and stressed that fear is alien to Hindu religion and Indian civilization. Let’s understand this Mudra in detail:
Historical and Philosophical Origins
1. Definition and Context
Sanskrit Meaning: In Sanskrit, mudra means a seal, mark, sign, or currency. In the Buddhist context, it refers to hand and arm gestures made during rituals or depicted in images of deities.
Buddhist Use: Mudras are most commonly associated with visual depictions of the Buddha, conveying different moods and meanings, signifying the subtle manifestations of the Buddha’s states of realization.
2. Early Depictions of the Buddha
Initial Symbolism: For about 500 years after the Buddha, the great teacher was symbolized by a vacant throne or a footprint. Physical depictions started around the turn of the first millennium.
Gandhara and Gupta Art: Early depictions appeared in Gandhara art (modern-day Pakistan and Afghanistan) with Hellenistic influences and later in Gupta period art in the Gangetic plains.
The Abhaya Mudra in Buddhism
1. Gesture of Fearlessness
Description by Buswell and Lopez: The abhaya mudra is formed with the palm of the right hand facing outward at shoulder height and fingers pointing up. Sometimes, both hands are raised in a double abhayamudra.
Buddhist Tradition: Associated with the Buddha after Enlightenment, symbolizing security, serenity, and compassion. It also represents the moment when Shakyamuni tamed a mad elephant, illustrating the Buddha’s ability to grant fearlessness to followers.
2. The Legend of the Mad Elephant
Devadatta’s Plot: Devadatta, the Buddha’s cousin and disciple, plotted to harm him by driving a wild elephant intoxicated onto his path.
Buddha’s Response: The Buddha raised his hand in the abhaya mudra, calming the elephant immediately, which then bowed before him.
Symbolism: The gesture is also seen as one of protection or granting refuge.
The Abhaya Mudra in Hinduism
1. Integration into Hindu Iconography
Cultural Exchange: Over time, the abhaya mudra appeared in depictions of Hindu deities, with the Buddha being absorbed into the Hindu pantheon as the ninth avatar of Vishnu.
Historical References: The Buddha as an avatar of Vishnu is mentioned in the Vishnu Purana (400-500 CE).
2. Depictions in Hindu Art
Common Depictions: The abhaya mudra is commonly seen in images of Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu, and Lord Ganesha.
Symbolic Representation: In Hinduism, the mudra represents protection, reassurance, and the dispelling of fear, mirroring its significance in Buddhism.
Modern Political Usage by Rahul Gandhi
1. Symbolism in Speeches
Political Context: Rahul Gandhi has invoked the abhaya mudra in Congress rallies, the Bharat Jodo Yatra, and now in Parliament, symbolizing fearlessness and reassurance.
Message: He emphasized that the culture of fear is alien to Hindu religion and Indian civilization, invoking the mudra to counter the government’s narrative.
2. Cultural and Religious Unity
Religious Figures: Gandhi highlighted that the abhaya mudra is a common thread in depictions of Lord Shiva, Guru Nanak, Jesus Christ, and figures in Islam, Buddhism, and Jainism.
Unity and Fearlessness: By invoking the abhaya mudra, Gandhi aims to promote unity and fearlessness across diverse religious and cultural traditions.
Conclusion
Significance of the Abhaya Mudra: The abhaya mudra, symbolizing fearlessness and reassurance, has deep historical and philosophical roots in both Buddhism and Hinduism.
Political and Cultural Relevance: Rahul Gandhi’s invocation of the mudra in Parliament serves as a powerful symbol of unity and a stance against fear-based governance.
Relevance for Competitive Exams
UPSC CSE and CAPF Preparation: This article provides insights into cultural symbols and their political significance, relevant for essay writing and current affairs.
Application to Multiple Exams: Knowledge of the abhaya mudra and its historical context is useful for exams like NDA, CDS, SSB Interview, AFCAT, IAS, and IB ACIO.
Current Affairs Importance: Understanding such symbols helps grasp broader social, cultural, and political dynamics, essential for comprehensive exam preparation.
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