Shakyamuni Buddha, the original and eternal Buddha, stands on a lotus flower, the symbol of the Dharma, with hands in the Vitarka mudra. This mudra is made by combining the Abhaya and Varada mudras’ postures, symbolizing the preaching of the Dharma and leading sentient beings to bodhisattva hood.

The Abhaya mudra of the right hand is a gesture of reassurance, peace, and courage.

The Varada mudra of the left hand is a gesture of compassion, giving, and welcoming.