Glossary of Buddhism

This glossary of Buddhism provides definitions of terms related to Buddhism, with links to full articles where available.

abhaya mudra

Buddhist hand gesture representing fearlessness.

Amida Buddha

(Japanese; Sanskrit Amitabha; "infinite light"). Celestial buddha who, while a bodhisattva, vowed to lead all beings to the Pure Land. Amida is the focus of devotion in Pure Land Buddhism and one of several revered buddhas of the Mahayana tradition.

begging bowl

Bowl used by Buddhist monks to collect alms from laypeople; also has symbolic significance.

bhumisparsha mudra

Buddhist hand gesture representing calling the earth to witness.

conch shell

Symbol of the fame of the Buddha's teachings.

dharma wheel

(Sanskrit dharmachakra). Buddhist symbol representing the Buddha's teachings. Often used as a symbol of Buddhism.

dharmachakra mudra

Buddhist hand gesture representing the turning of the wheel (of dharma).

dhyana mudra

Buddhist hand gesture representing meditation.

endless knot

Buddhist symbol representing the Buddha's endless wisdom and compassion.

golden fishes

(Sanskrit suvarnamatsya). Buddhist symbol of good fortune, fertility and salvation.