Buddhist Karana Mudrā.

The gesture is known in Buddhism as the Karana Mudrā (or Tarjanī Mudrā), and it is used specifically to expel demons, remove negative energy, ward off sickness, and banish obstacles like fear and anxiety.

While it looks nearly identical to the Western "devil horns" or rock-and-roll sign, there is a slight structural difference:

• In the Buddhist Karana Mudrā: The index finger and pinky point straight up, while the middle and ring fingers fold toward the palm, usually with the thumb resting gently on or over them.
• In the Western Sign: The thumb is usually tucked in beneath the middle and ring fingers, though this varies depending on personal style.

Other Historical Meanings:

• Mediterranean Folk Tradition: Long before it was used in heavy metal, it was known in Italy as the corna (horns) and was used to ward off the "evil eye" (malocchio).
• Hatha Yoga: A very similar hand gesture called the Apāna Mudrā is believed to calm the heart and ground the body.
• Pop Culture: It was famously popularized in rock and metal music by singer Ronnie James Dio, who learned the protective gesture from his Italian grandmother.

Paris Jackson doing the Karana Mudrā