13.5″ Shakyamuni Statue, Handmade in Nepal, Fire Gilded 24k Finish, Gold Face Painted

This gold Shakyamuni statue represents the original Buddha of our time. The Buddha Shakyamuni was reincarnated in the 6th century BCE as Prince Siddhartha Gautama. Additionally, he was born into the Shakya Kingdom and he was the son of King Suddhodana. However, after becoming disillusioned with his lavish lifestyle, he renounced his inheritance and went to live in the forest as a renunciant. After practicing meditation for 6 years, he became the first enlightened and taught the Dharma to sentient life. Gold Shakyamuni Statue Mudras Our gold Shakyamuni statue is depicting the Bhumisparsha or “earth touching” mudra. This is a unique mudra mostly exclusive to Shakyamuni Buddha. The earth touching mudra is depicted with the right hand draped over the knee with the palm flat and facing inward. Also, the fingers are lightly touching the ground. Additionally, his left hand is resting in his lap with the palm facing upwards and there is an alms bowl resting in the palm of his hand. This is known as the Dhyana “meditation” mudra. It can be depicted with or without the alms bowl, but the alms bowl has a special significance because it holds the three nectars that will eliminate the three poisons of greed, hatred and ignorance. However, the most prominent gesture is done with the right hand. Siddhartha performed this mudra when he was on the verge of enlightenment under the bodhi tree. As he was preparing to enter Nirvana, the demon Mara appeared. Mara tried to entice him with earthly pleasures. However, Mara was unsuccessful and the Buddha went on to achieve his goal. Click here to learn more about Shakyamuni Buddha.