Early Buddhist art in India displays the development of an elaborate system of i

Question

Early Buddhist art in India displays the development of an elaborate system of iconography (symbols representing ideas or concepts) to express ideas related to the life and teachings of the Buddha. We do not, however, see physical images of the Buddha produced until the later Kushan period. It is said that the Buddha himself forbade his image to be produced as it would encourage attachment to worldly possessions. How was this iconography used to encourage the spiritual path of the believer? The incorporation of earlier religious imagery, such as the Yakshi, may also be included in the discussion.

Explanation / Answer

Buddha's direct representation in the art was not acceptable till the early centuries. Earlier the symbols like Dharma wheel, Bodhi tree, lotus flower was more prominent. Dharma wheel had 8 spokes and have a variety of meanings. During the 3rd century BC it was used in the pillars of Ashoka. The 8 wheels in the Dharma wheel symbolises the 8 fold noble nobles mentioned in buddharma. The lotus symbolises the quality of compassion as well as the pure state of mind. The bodhi tree symbolises the place where the Buddha reaches nibanna and thus represents liberation.

Other early symbols included were monks begging bowls and trisula. Around 2nd century BC Trisula was a symbol used along with lotus, three jewels and vajra diamond rods. The three jewels represent the Buddha, Dharma and the Sangh. Some animals like lion, riderless horse deer represents the elements of Buddhism. The roar of lion indicates the power and nobility whereas the riderless horse represented the renunciation. Since Buddha first gave his sermon at deer park of Varanasi so the deer represented Buddha displines. Also Swasthik was used by Buddhists to represent good fortune.

Yakshi was the formless goddess which was worshiped by the rural people. This goddess resided in trees, lakes and ponds as the fertility of love, earth and beauty. She does not belong to any specific religion.The Sanchi Stupa in Madhya Pradesh has eight yakshis on its gateway. Since the Yakshis are associated with trees, they are seen to standing under mango or banana trees. These Yakshis were sculpted in a variety of stones and materials eg marbles, sandstones, terracotta, wood etc.

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