Symbols & their meanings in regards to early sculptors & Buddhism - Art & Culture
Q. Which of the following symbols are correctly matched with their meanings in regards to early sculptors and Buddhism?
1) Empty Seat --------- Mahaparinibbana
2) Stupa ------------------ Meditation of Buddha
3) Wheel ------------------ First sermon- Published on 17 Aug 15a. Only 2
b. Only 1 and 2
c. Only 3
d. All of the above
ANSWER: Only 3
Many early sculptors did not show the Buddha in human form – instead, they showed his presence through symbols. The empty seat was meant to indicate the meditation of the Buddha, and the stupa was meant to represent the mahaparinibbana. Another frequently used symbol was the wheel. This stood for the first sermon of the Buddha, delivered at Sarnath.
