While traveling in Asia, it is almost impossible not to encounter a monument or an image dedicated to Buddha, whether a serene figure meditating or a majestic statue. Even those with limited knowledge of Buddhism can recognize the iconic image and feel a sense of wonder and curiosity. For people who are in the practice of Buddha Dharma, this image brings deep devotion and respect. For others, it can stir a range of emotions, from awe and admiration to intrigue and fascination. Perhaps it’s the peaceful expression of the Buddha. Whatever the reason, this image of the Buddha is powerful to captivate and inspire, going beyond cultures and religions, and inviting us to explore the depths of our own inner journey. Because of this, one may certainly wonder about this icon.

In Buddhism, there are said to be three main paths of practice – Sravakayana, Mahayana, and Vajrayana – each with numerous sub-branches. While Vajrayana is also considered a sub-branch of Mahayana, its tantric and visualization practices make it distinct. The image of the historical Buddha is used in all three paths of practice. Although the Buddha image appears the same across all paths, the significance of each posture can vary. In Sravakayana, the name “Shakyamuni” is not so commonly used, and since this path generally does not have any visualization practices of figures, the name “Buddha” typically refers to the historical Buddha. Therefore, whether one sees a Buddha image with a meditation gesture or a Buddha image with the right hand touching the earth, both typically represent the historical Buddha. In Mahayana and Vajrayana, this is not the case. These paths of practice do not regard the Buddha touching the earth and the one in meditation hand posture as the same one. There are numerous Buddhas with symbolic traits that allow for their differentiation. Thus, the question of “what is the iconography of the Historical Buddha” can arise.

The Buddha is said to have 32 major marks and 80 minor marks, and while all Buddhas have a similar appearance, they are distinguished by their symbolic hand gestures and colors. Understanding the iconography of the Shakyamuni Buddha begins with his head, which is consistent across all Buddhas. There are several symbolic features of the Buddha’s head, including the ‘Gajur’ which is a pinnacle at the top, representing the highest view; the Ushnisha, which is a cerebral bump, representing knowledge and wisdom beyond normal intellect; distinctive hair curls; long earlobes symbolizing renunciation; peaceful slightly open eyes with one-pointed concentration, and a gentle smile representing peace and bliss. Just like all Buddha figures, Shakyamuni Buddha is depicted wearing a robe and sitting calmly in the meditative posture of ‘Padmasana’, with crossed legs and soles of the feet facing upward. This posture, also translated as the ‘lotus posture’, keeps the body in a stable position that promotes relaxation and inward focus. Its resemblance to the blossoming of a lotus flower inspired its name. He is said to have gold like skin color. The most distinctive feature of Shakyamuni Buddha is his hand gesture along with the golden body color. The hand gesture, known as Bhumisprasha mudra or ‘earth-touching mudra,’ involves touching the ground with one hand while seated. This gesture has significance in Buddhist iconography and the question as to why this particular hand gesture is used for Shakyamuni Buddha can again arise.

‘Bhumisparsa mudra’ is depicted with the right hand gently extending forward with the fingers extended downward and touching the surface of the earth. When Siddhartha Gautama commenced his meditation under the Bodhi tree, he encountered ‘Mara,’ who is often referred to as the Lord of Desires, personifying delusions and temptations. Despite Mara’s powerful efforts to distract him from his meditation, Siddhartha maintained perfect equanimity and gradually overcame Mara’s distractions. As Siddhartha unfolds the knots of Mara one after the other and awakens to the nature of reality, Mara once again confronted him and asks him, “There is no one around you to witness your enlightenment, your parents are not here, nor are your friends, so who can you call to bear witness to you becoming the Buddha?” In response to this, Siddhartha extended his right hand and touched the Earth, stating, ‘The Earth is my witness.’ The Earth then rumbled, bearing witness to Siddhartha’s awakening and his transformation into the Buddha.

Those who have a comprehensive understanding of the story of Shakyamuni Buddha are undoubtedly familiar with this story. This hand gesture is a representation of the pivotal moment when Siddhartha achieved enlightenment and became the Buddha, and this helps us to understand why this Mudra is employed in the portrayal of Shakyamuni Buddha. While its story may appear simple to many, for a practitioner, it holds a deeper significance. When calling upon the earth, it symbolizes unwavering focus and determination on the path to awakening. The earth signifies nature itself, and it is delusion and ignorance of the truth that cause one to deviate and believe that they are separate from it. This quality is essential for anyone in the path of meditation and awakening, as it ensures they remain steadfast

With this, we have explored some of the fundamental aspects of Shakyamuni Buddha’s iconography. The rich symbolism behind the images and gestures is not only fascinating but also serves as a gateway to deeper understanding. While the external representations may bring curiosity and admiration, the true essence of the teachings can only be fully grasped through personal experience and practice. It is only by walking the path that one truly understands the wisdom and inner transformation that these sacred symbols represent.

May all beings be happy!