UPSC Prelims 2012 · Question 72 of 98

UPSC Prelims 2012 question on Bhumisparsha Mudra

Lord Buddha’s image is sometimes shown with the hand gesture called ‘Bhumisparsha Mudra’. It symbolizes

  1. Buddha’s calling of the Earth to watch over Mara and to prevent Mara from disturbing his meditation.
  2. Buddha’s calling of the Earth to witness his purity and chastity despite the temptations of Mara.
  3. Buddha’s reminder to his followers that they all arise from the Earth and finally dissolve into the Earth, and thus this life is transitory.
  4. Both the statements (a) and (b) are correct in this context.
Show answer

Answer: B. Buddha’s calling of the Earth to witness his purity and chastity despite the temptations of Mara.

Verdict

Correct Answer: Buddha’s calling of the Earth to witness his purity and chastity despite the temptations of Mara

Analysis

Bhumisparsha Mudra means the Earth-touching gesture.

It represents the moment when Buddha called the Earth to witness his spiritual merit before attaining enlightenment.

1. Buddha’s calling of the Earth to witness his purity and chastity despite the temptations of Mara — Correct

Before enlightenment, Mara tried to distract Siddhartha Gautama through fear and temptation.

Buddha touched the Earth with his right hand, calling it to witness his purity, virtue and spiritual merit. This gesture is called Bhumisparsha Mudra.

2. Buddha’s first sermon at Sarnath — Incorrect

This is represented by Dharmachakra Mudra.

It symbolises the turning of the Wheel of Dharma.

3. Buddha’s meditation — Incorrect

Meditation is represented by Dhyana Mudra.

In this mudra, both hands are placed on the lap in a meditative posture.

4. Buddha’s fearlessness or protection — Incorrect

Fearlessness is represented by Abhaya Mudra.

In this mudra, the right hand is raised with the palm facing outward.

Extra UPSC info

* Bhumisparsha Mudra is closely associated with Buddha’s enlightenment at Bodh Gaya.

* Mara represents desire, illusion and obstacles to enlightenment.

* Dharmachakra Mudra represents the First Sermon at Sarnath.

* Dhyana Mudra represents meditation and concentration.

* Abhaya Mudra represents fearlessness and protection.

* Varada Mudra represents charity, compassion and granting of blessings.

* Bhumisparsha Mudra is usually shown in a seated posture.

How to crack it

Bhumisparsha Mudra symbolises Buddha touching the Earth to witness his purity and merit before attaining enlightenment.

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