Final answer:
The gyan mudra, where the thumb touches the index finger to form a circle, is considered sacred and symbolic in Hindu and Buddhist cultures, used in meditation and depicted in their religious icons.
Step-by-step explanation:
The hand gesture of putting your thumb together with your index finger to form a circle, often referred to as the gyan mudra, is considered sacred in Hindu culture as well as in Buddhist practice. This gesture is widely recognized as a symbol for peace, concentration, and is often used during meditation and yoga. The gyan mudra is believed to facilitate mental and spiritual development by stimulating the brain, reducing stress, and improving concentration. In Hinduism, it is frequently seen in depictions of deities, particularly when they are in a meditative state, signifying the unity of consciousness and the cosmos.