Pāni tattva (the hand) is the most complex action organ. Acting as a mirror of consciousness, it immediately reacts to, and expresses the will. It has a complex symbolism and multiple functions. The hand can express emotions and speech. One can see through touch and speak in hand language.
Pāni tattva is not equal to the physical hand itself but it is a structure in consciousness associated with the hand. Tattvically, pāni tattva is a superior octave of sparśa tattva (touch) and vāyu tattva (air). From the seven force centers, it is related to Anahata chakra.
A series of minor force centers (chakras) exist in the palm of the hand, elbow and shoulder, united by a series of force channels (nadi). Thus, the hand is a conduit of subtle energy. By performing a scared hand gesture (or a magical action) one can tune in a specific resonance. The imprint of a hand on an object is a symbol of domination. Hindu Gods (deva) are often represented with multiple hands, suggesting their multidimensionality. A strong arm is the mark of the hero (vira). The invisible hand of God is a symbol of God's mysterious power.
There are various ways fingers are associated to the five elements. For example: thumb - fire, index - air, middle - ether, ring - earth, little - water. Almost all people develop a strong polarity between the hands, forming a preference for either the right hand or the left hand. The dominating hand is associated with yang and the other with yin.
Pāni tattva is sometimes called the organ of apprehension and is the main external tool of the mind. Writing, in its role of external memory, is associated with ākāśa. The hand is a symbol of action, strength, domination and protection. It is used for imposing a specific resonance, energy transfer, giving a blessing and spiritually investing another person. The "eye in the hand" is associated with both both protection and luck[1].
More functions and symbols:
- the hand that talks - hand language
- the hand expresses emotions - fidgeting, etc
- the hand as an instrument of memory - writing, drawing
- the hand as an instrument of healing (sometimes, the hand of the king) - miracle worker
- the hand of providence (Hand of God) - symbol of the mysterious and irresistible power of God, forces outside the human control
- the eloquent hand gesture - nonverbal communication, auxiliary communication
Symbolism of the hand gestures
- both hands raised - victory, adoration, prayer, receptiveness to the celestial powers, praising the Divine
- covered or concealed - respect
- folded - tranquility
- palms upward, laid on each other - meditation
- palms together - prayer
- clenching fist - anger
- raising the right hand - threat
- placed in the hands of another - submission and trust
- clasping - praising the Lord (original symbolism), fraternity, welcome, agreement
- handshake symbol - sincerity, friendship
- many people joining hands - to unite
- palm placed on the top of the head of another - blessing, investiture, relaying energy
- raising a prized object with both hands - victory
In hatha yoga are described a series of hand gestures (mudra). The role of the mudra is to impose a specific resonance. Some of the mudras are:
- abhaya mudra - the right hand slightly elevated, the palm turned outwards - fearlessness, renunciation
- namaskara mudra - both palms folded together - prayer, purity, scacrality
- jnana mudra - the tip of the index finger touches the tip of the thumb, forming a circle - concentration
- samadhi mudra - both hands resting on the lap, palms upwards.