UPSC Prelims 2026 · GS Paper 1 · Question 12
What does an empty seat represent in early Buddhist iconography ?
Correct answer: Option A
History
Options
- (a) The meditation of the Buddha
- (b) The Buddha's First Sermon
- (c) The Buddha's Mahaparinibbana
- (d) The Buddha's Mahabhinishkramana
Detailed solution
Answer
Option (A) — The meditation of the Buddha
Explanation
- In early Buddhist art (aniconic phase), the Buddha was not depicted in human form but was represented through symbols.
- An empty seat or throne symbolized the Buddha's meditation, particularly his attainment of enlightenment under the Bodhi tree.
- Other symbols include the Bodhi tree (enlightenment), the Dharma chakra (First Sermon), footprints (Buddha's presence), and the stupa (Mahaparinibbana).