Buddha confidently holds his right hand downward in the earth-touching gesture (bhumisparsha mudra), signifying his call to the earth goddess as a witness to affirm his entitlement to enlightenment following his triumph over Mara, the destroyer. This significant event transpired under the bodhi (enlightenment) tree at Bodhgaya, at the esteemed spot known as the diamond seat (vajrasana). An intricate double lotus throne with lions symbolizes this location. The repeated portrayals of the Buddha invoking the earth to bear witness underscore the doctrinal importance of his enlightenment.
