How to Read a Thangka: A Beginner’s Guide to Symbols, Mudras and Attributes

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By Zeel Sundhani

13 min read

  • Art

    • Table of Contents

    1. Types of Thangka
    2. Symbolism in Thangka paintings
    3. Mudras or hand gestures
      1. Varada Mudra – “Gesture of Generosity“
      2. Dhyana Mudra – “Gesture of Meditation“
    4. Colors used in Thangka paintings and their symbolism
    5. Iconography and attributes of Buddha and Bodhisattvas

    A thangka is a traditional Buddhist painting on cloth, usually cotton or silk, that serves as a sacred visual aid for meditation, teaching and ritual practice. Originating in the Himalayan regions of Tibet, Nepal and Bhutan, thangkas function as visual scriptures, depicting Buddhas, Bodhisattvas, deities, mandalas and spiritual lineages according to strict iconographic rules. Every element in a thangka: posture, gesture, colour and proportion is carefully prescribed, ensuring that the image accurately conveys Buddhist philosophy and cosmology. Rather than being purely decorative, thangkas are meant to be read and contemplated, guiding practitioners toward spiritual insight and devotional focus. Traditionally, they are mounted in brocade frames and can be rolled up, making them portable objects of worship and teaching.

    Types of Thangka

    Thangkas can be broadly classified based on technique, subject matter and function. Painted thangkas are the most common, created using mineral and organic pigments bound with animal glue, often finished with gold detailing. Applique thangkas are made by stitching together pieces of coloured silk or fabric to form large, richly textured images, typically used for monumental or ceremonial displays. Black-ground thangkas feature gold or coloured figures painted on a black background, symbolising esoteric knowledge and tantric practices, while red-ground thangkas often emphasise wrathful or protective deities.

    Based on the subject, thangkas may depict single deities, complex mandalas, narrative scenes from the life of the Buddha or lineage thangkas that trace the transmission of teachings through teachers and masters. Some thangkas are instructional, illustrating meditation practices or cosmological diagrams, while others are devotional, commissioned for personal worship or merit-making. Together, these varied types reflect the rich spiritual, artistic and pedagogical roles that thangkas continue to play within Buddhist traditions.

    Symbolism in Thangka paintings

    Thangka paintings are not merely decorative, each element that covers even an inch of the canvas has its own meaning. Here are a few examples of this deeply symbolic artform:

    The below Thangka painting shows the world in a nest, contemplating the profound link between nature and humanity. Just as birds return to their nests, humans seek the comfort and familiarity of their realm. The intricate motifs and symbolism within the painting represent prosperity, health, happiness, friendship and good luck – universal desires that bind us all. This Thangka painting serves as a portal to a world of profound contemplation, connecting the viewer to the essence of existence, nature and the teachings of Buddha, wrapped in a mesmerizing tapestry of color and pattern.

    A World in Nest: Thangka Painting by Krishna Tashi Palmo

    This Thangka painting depicts a warrior, symbolising the indomitable human spirit, evolving through life's challenges. As the warrior faces monumental adversaries, the artwork beckons viewers to ponder the inner battles we all confront. This Thangka artwork is a visual testament to the enduring strength found within.

    The Warrior: Thangka Painting by Krishna Tashi Palmo

    This painting highlights the eight lucky signs, each holding a unique significance, contributing to a rich tapestry of Buddhist teachings. The Endless Knot, a mesmerizing visual paradox, signifies the eternal cycle of life and enlightenment. The Lotus, a symbol of purity, parallels the spiritual journey from the muddy depths of samsara to the radiant bloom of enlightenment. The Treasure Vase overflows with blessings of health, wealth and prosperity. The White Conch Shell resonates with the melodious wisdom of the Dharma. Golden Fishes embody release from samsara's suffering, while the Parasol offers protection and regal grace. The Victory Banner celebrates the triumph of positive teachings over negativity and the Golden Wheel or dharmachakra illustrates the Noble Eightfold Path, consisting of the teachings of right understanding, right thought, right speech, right action, right livelihood, right effort, right mindfulness and right concentration. It becomes a medium to share the Budha’s teachings with the world.

    The 8 Lucky Signs: Thangka Painting by Krishna Tashi Palmo

    This painting depicts a man controlling a tiger, symbolic of the mastery over one's own mind and emotions. The image portrays a skilled practitioner who has achieved a level of inner peace and control, suppressing the chaotic emotions symbolized by the tiger through meditation and spiritual practice. Ultimately, the tiger represents the unruly and wild nature of the mind, while the man represents the practitioner who has achieved a level of control and discipline over his thoughts and emotions.

    The Tiger and the Mongolian man in Thangka painting by Gyaltsen Zimba

    Mudras or hand gestures

    Before trying to study the iconography of the figures, it is important to know what each mudra or hand gesture of Buddha or Bodhisattvas means, to be able to read the painting correctly. The following are the commonly used mudras in Thangka paintings -

    Abhaya, meaning non-fear, is a gesture of protection, reassurance and fearlessness, often displayed by Gods offering protection to their devotees. It is shown with the right palm raised up to the shoulder level, all fingers open and facing front.

    Abhaya Mudra – “Gesture of Fearlessness“

    The Varada mudra is the gesture of giving, compassion and blessing, often displayed by gods blessing their devotees and granting their wishes. It is usually depicted using the left hand, placed lower near the thigh, with an open palm facing upwards.

    Varada Mudra – “Gesture of Generosity“

    The Dhyanamudra is considered to be a mudra for meditation. This indicates Samadhi or yoga mudra. It is depicted with both hands in the lap with the back of the right hand resting on the palm of the left hand with fingers extended and the tips of both the thumbs forming a triangle.

    Dhyana Mudra – “Gesture of Meditation“

    In the Bhumisparshana mudra, Buddha is depicted sitting in meditation with his left palm upright in his lap, and right hand touching the ground. This signifies the calling of Earth to witness his nirvana.

    Bhumisparsha Mudra

    The Vitarka mudra indicates teaching and discussion or intellectual debate. The tips of the thumb and index finger touch and form a circle. This symbolises the constant flow of energy, and the belief that there is no beginning or end, just perfection. The right hand is positioned at a shoulder level, while the left stays in the lap, with the palm facing upwards.

    vitarka mudra

    The Dharmachakra mudra signifies turning the wheel of Dharma or law, involving both hands to show balance. Mystic circles are formed to create the cycle of movement. This mudra was exhibited by Buddha after his enlightenment, at his first sermon at Sarnath.

    Dharmacakra Mudra – “Gesture of Teaching“

    Vajra mudra is a gesture associated with indestructibility and spiritual power, symbolising the vajra’s qualities of clarity, firmness, and awakened wisdom. It is commonly linked with tantric deities and esoteric Vajrayana practices.

    Tarjani mudra is formed by raising the index finger and signifies warning, protection, and the expulsion of negative forces. In thangka art, it is most often seen in wrathful deities who act as protectors of the Dharma.

    Tarjani Mudra – “Gesture of Warning“

    Karana mudra is an apotropaic gesture used to ward off evil, obstacles and harmful influences. It conveys active protection and is frequently depicted in fierce or guardian figures.

    Karana Mudra – “Gesture to ward off the evil“

    Namaskara or Anjali mudra is a gesture of folded hands that signifies reverence, devotion, and respectful greeting. In thangka paintings, it usually appears in attendants, disciples or donor figures offering homage to the central deity.

    Namaskara Mudra – “Gesture of Praying and Salutation”

    Colors used in Thangka paintings and their symbolism

    In thangka paintings, colour is not merely decorative but deeply symbolic, communicating philosophical ideas, emotional states, and spiritual qualities. Each colour is carefully chosen to convey specific meanings associated with Buddhist cosmology and practice.

    White symbolises purity, peace and spiritual perfection. It is associated with calmness, wisdom and the removal of ignorance, often used for peaceful deities and figures embodying compassion and longevity.

    Blue represents wisdom, depth and infinity. It is linked to the vastness of the sky and the purity of enlightened awareness, connected with healing, protection and transcendence.

    Red signifies power, passion and transformation. In thangka art, it often represents compassion expressed through strength, the vitality of life energy and the transformation of desire into enlightened awareness.

    Green symbolises action, balance and protection. It reflects active compassion and readiness to assist beings, frequently associated with deities like Green Tara who embody swift, enlightened action.

    Yellow or gold stands for abundance, stability and spiritual richness. It is connected with earth energy, learning, generosity and the nourishment of wisdom, and is often used for robes, halos and sacred objects.

    Black represents protection, the annihilation of ignorance and the power to overcome obstacles. It is commonly used for wrathful deities who destroy negative forces and safeguard the Dharma.

    Orange and saffron symbolise renunciation, discipline and spiritual pursuit. These colours are often linked to monastic robes and signify detachment from worldly desires.

    Brown and earth tones reflect humility, groundedness and ascetic practice. They are associated with yogic figures, hermits and renunciants who embody simplicity and discipline.

    Together, these colours create a symbolic visual language through which thangka paintings communicate layers of meaning, guiding viewers toward contemplation, meditation and deeper spiritual understanding.

    Iconography and attributes of Buddha and Bodhisattvas

    In Vajrayana Buddhism, also known as Tibetan or tantric Buddhism, Buddha is depicted in five different forms - the Dhyani Buddhas. The Adi Buddha, or original Buddha is depicted in a dark blue color, holding a vajra and a bell, as depicted in the below Thangka painting.

    Buddha with Vajra in Thangka paintings by Gyaltsen Zimba

    In Vajrayana as well as Mahayana Buddhism, Bodhisattvas are revered as celestial beings who have attained various enlightened qualities like compassion, wisdom, power, etc. and are on the path to enlightenment, but refuse the state of nirvana to help others. There are many differences in the iconography of the Buddha and Bodhisattvas, who have not given up materialistic things, and do not dress like a monk. While Buddha is clad in simple monk’s robes and no ornaments, Bodhisattvas wear ornate robes, jewellery, crown and silk scarves. Their hair is often long and flowing hair tied in topknots, more decorative than Buddha. They are often surrounded by lotus thrones, flames, or multiple halos, unlike the simple halo of Buddha. They are depicted in graceful or dynamic poses like the tribhaṅga (3-bend posture), as opposed to Buddha’s abhanga. Their faces are very expressive, showing compassion, fury, concern, etc. They carry their iconic attributes like a sword, vajra, book, lotus, etc.

    These are popular themes in Thangka art, a traditional form of Tibetan Buddhist scroll painting. Though there are countless Bodhisattvas, a few are more prominently depicted in art, including Avalokiteshvara, Vajrapani and Manjushri.

    The Trimurty, Three Supreme Gods: Thangka Painting by Krishna Tashi Palmo

    Avalokitesvara, one of the most important Bodhisattvas, the name translating to the lord that looks down on, or looks after people. His iconography includes a rosary or mala and a lotus or padma in his hands. His hands are either seen in the Anjali mudra - the mudra of greeting, Vitarka mudra or Varada mudra. He is usually depicted in white, highlighting his compassionate nature.

    Awalokiteshvara: Thangka Painting by Krishna Tashi Palmo

    Bodhisattva Manjushri is associated with the color golden or orange, depicted as a young, radiant personification of wisdom. He is usually portrayed as standing or seated on a lion or lotus throne. His hands often carry a sword and a book, or are depicted in the Dharmachakra or Varada mudra. The sword symbolises cutting through ignorance, while the sacred book he carries is believed to be the Prajnaparamita Sutra, one of the three representations of perfection of wisdom. It rests on a lotus flower held in his left hand, symbolising purity and spiritual awakening.

    Manjushri, God of Wisdom: Thangka Painting by Krishna Tashi Palmo

    Manjushree depiction in Thangka painting by Gyaltsen Zimba

    Bodhisattva Vajrapani is associated with the color blue,depicted holding a vajra (thunderbolt or diamond scepter). The Vajra symbolises the indestructible nature of truth and wisdom and the power to overcome obstacles and dispel ignorance. He is usually portrayed as a wrathful deity with fierce expressions, highlighting his role as a protector of Dhamma. He is shown with furrowed brows, glaring eyes, and bared fangs, signifying his determination to destroy ignorance and delusion. Sometimes, he has a third eye on his forehead, symbolising spiritual insight. He has a muscular and robust body, representing strength and the ability to remove obstacles. Vajrapani is commonly depicted in a dynamic posture, with one leg bent and the other extended, showing readiness for action. He is adorned with snake ornaments, a reference to his power over obstacles and harmful forces. Clad in a tiger or elephant skin around his waist as an expression of his fearless and wild nature, he also wears a crown featuring skulls, signifying the transience of life. He is surrounded by flames, an indication of purification and the destruction of ignorance.

    Vajrapani: Thangka Painting by Krishna Tashi Palmo

    In Vajrayana Buddhism, Tara is a revered goddess, also believed to be a female Bodhisattva. There are twenty-one primary forms of Tara. She is both a personal deity and a universal symbol of compassion and wisdom. She is often visualised in tantric meditations, helping practitioners cultivate fearlessness, compassion, and inner peace. She is usually shown in a seated posture, with her right hand in the Varada mudra and left depicting the Vitarka mudra. The lotus flower, a symbol of purity and liberation, is also associated with her. There are twenty-one primary forms of Tara.

    The Twenty-One Taras in Thangka painting by Krishna Tashi Palmo

    The two most widely worshipped forms of Tara are green Tara and White Tara. Green Tara, also called Shyamatara, is associated with enlightenment and fearlessness. Her extended leg shows her readiness to act, always present as a saviour to her devotees in need. She holds a blue lotus (utpala) and is surrounded by peaceful energy.

    Green Tara in Thangka painting by Gyaltsen Zimba

    The Green Tara Devi: Thangka Painting by Krishna Tashi Palmo

    White Tara is also known as Sitatara. She is associated with compassion, long life and healing. She is believed to have seven eyes (including palms, soles and forehead) to see all suffering. She is invoked for health and longevity.

    White Tara in Thangka painting by Gyaltsen Zimba

    Thus, reading a thangka is an act of attentive seeing, one that invites the viewer to move beyond surface beauty into layers of philosophy, symbolism and spiritual meaning. Every gesture, colour, attribute and figure is part of a carefully constructed visual language that communicates Buddhist teachings without words. By learning to recognise mudras, understand colour symbolism and identify iconographic details, even a beginner can begin to read a thangka as it was intended - as a guide for contemplation, meditation and inner reflection.

    Rather than static artworks, Thangkas are living traditions shaped by centuries of devotional practice and artistic discipline. They serve as bridges between art and spirituality, narrative and philosophy, the material and the transcendental. Approaching a thangka with patience and awareness allows it to unfold its meanings gradually, offering not just aesthetic appreciation but a deeper connection to Buddhist thought and the contemplative worldview it embodies.

    Check out our entire collection of Thangka paintings here

    To know more about Thangka art, give our other blogs a read -

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