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What are mudra?

From Tibetan Buddhist Encyclopedia
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Q: What are mudra?

Mudra are Buddhist hand positions depicted in statues and taught as reminders of teachings and as meditation hand positions or parts of ritual practice.


Q: What is the most common in Buddhist meditation? The hands in lap or on knees.


Q: Why are the hands not placed upward as in yoga? Yogic mudra are often associated with receiving something such as shakti or blessing. In Buddhism the physical system is usually closed to outside influence. In magical transmission systems such as Shingon and Tendai other symbolic mudra may be appropriate.


Q: Are mudra an advanced, esoteric or secret practice The Buddhas like most religious teachers, do not conceal but reveal. The genuine 'advanced teachings' become relevant to those with experience. So for example mudra may be taught as part of the three secrets of mind, body and speech. This combines mudra (body) with visualisation (mind) and mantra (speech). Mudra may be centred in a complete ritual framework that takes time and effort to assimilate and practice. Mudra may be part of a graduated process of increasingly complex 'revealed' teaching.


Q: Are mudra used in other religions/systems Sure. Here is a Taoist 'magical' Three Secrets Mudra practice that increases personal magnetism and enhances the intuitive and mental powers.


Repeat this exercise seven to forty-nine times How to do this mudra: Place both hands on your thighs. Put the thumb tip onto the root of your little finger. Slowly encircle your thumbs with the other four fingers, while slowly inhaling through your nose.Then slowly exhale while drawing in the abdominal wall; open your hands again and imagine all your worries, fears, and unhappiness leaving your body.


Q: Is mudra required? A: No.

Q: Have you used mudra in your practice. Yes. A little unorthodoxly. Mudra were taught as whole body physical components or martial movements. Together they became a kata (ritual fighting sequence). So for example the five initial katas corresponded to five different elements or ways of moving. By going through this sequence one became familiar with Earth, Water, Fire, Air and Spirit as specific ways of being in mind and body expression


Q: Are mudra magic or superstitious? Can be. Depends on how you approach them. Magick is just a practical ancient psychology.


Q: Can they be dangerous? No.


Q: Can they be healing? Yes they can but diet and exercise tend to work better ... and medicine.



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