King Prasenajit Representations Quiz
42 Questions
0 Views

Choose a study mode

Play Quiz
Study Flashcards
Spaced Repetition
Chat to Lesson

Podcast

Play an AI-generated podcast conversation about this lesson

Questions and Answers

What does the wheel represent in the depiction associated with King Prasenajit?

  • The unity of the community
  • The wisdom of the Buddha (correct)
  • The strength of the monarchy
  • The journey of life

Where is the visit of King Prasenajit depicted instead of Sarnath?

  • Vaishali
  • Gravasti (correct)
  • Bharhut
  • Kosala

What key feature identifies King Prasenajit in the depicted scene?

  • A specific weapon
  • An inscribed label (correct)
  • A throne
  • A unique crown

Which historical period do the inscriptions of Rajuvala and Godasa belong to?

<p>Prior to the time of Aioka (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the depiction of horse and riders represent in the narrative?

<p>The monarch and his entourage (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What form does Mucalinda take in the portrayal described?

<p>Purely reptilian form (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of Mucalinda in the depiction?

<p>To serve as a parasol above the Buddha's head (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How is the Buddha represented in this depiction?

<p>By a seat and a pair of symbols (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What part of the artwork does Mucalinda occupy?

<p>The larger part of the medallion (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What visual element symbolizes protection for the Buddha in this context?

<p>Mucalinda's hood (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'aniconic' refer to in the context of emblems?

<p>Symbolizing without aiming at resemblance (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following emblems is NOT mentioned as being used to represent the Buddha?

<p>A mandala (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What primary intention is suggested for artists depicting the Buddha's biography?

<p>To include references to the sites of events (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How may relief sculptures be interpreted in addition to representing events from the Buddha's life?

<p>As references to the holy sites where events took place (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which emblems are specifically mentioned as frequently being used singly or in combination?

<p>Trees, pillars, and stupa (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What misconception might arise if the validity of the artists' intentions is denied?

<p>The multiple meanings of the emblems may be overlooked. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the context provided, which of the following is emphasized regarding the intent of early Buddhist artists?

<p>The goal was to convey complex, multilayered meanings. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which statement best reflects the significance of the emblematic representations of the Buddha?

<p>They suggest both presence and teachings of Buddhism. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'aniconic form' refer to in the context of Buddhist art?

<p>The representation of events without displaying the Buddha. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which artifact is mentioned as being dated in the reign of Indo-Greek King Menander?

<p>Bajaur relic casket (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of visiting a stupa, according to the information provided?

<p>To experience the presence of the Buddha through relics. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What type of narrative is illustrated in the depiction of Erapata on the Prasenajit pillar?

<p>Synoptic narrative (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the inscription on the Bajaur relic casket describe the relics of gakyamuni as?

<p>Praina-samada (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which group significantly contributed to the decoration of the Sanchi stupa?

<p>Monks, nuns, and lay worshippers (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the analysis of panels at Bharhut suggest about the artist's intent?

<p>To illustrate stories of the Buddha without his presence. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which figure is depicted in a partially submerged form alongside Erapata in the narrative?

<p>A young brahmin (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the tale of Mucalinda naga illustrate about the Buddha?

<p>His detachment from worldly suffering (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is suggested by the concept of aniconism in relation to the Buddha?

<p>The representation of the Buddha through symbols rather than images (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

During what period did Mucalinda naga shelter the Buddha from the rain?

<p>The sixth week after his enlightenment (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the Buddha doing during the rainstorm?

<p>Engaged in deep contemplation (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the story of Mucalinda naga contribute to our understanding of the Buddha's character?

<p>It reveals his focus on spiritual growth over material concerns (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the atmosphere during the Buddha's contemplation?

<p>Calm and serene (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What significant event is referenced in the story of Mucalinda naga?

<p>The Buddha's enlightenment (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of Mucalinda naga's actions enhances the narrative of the Buddha's experience?

<p>His role as a protector during meditation (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is suggested by the placement of figures riding horses and elephants at the shrine?

<p>They indicate the circumambulation of the shrine. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the phrase 'Bhagavato dhammachako' signify on the shrine roof?

<p>It signifies the Wheel of Doctrine of the Holy One. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Who is associated with the dedication of the ten-foot-tall gravasti image of the Buddha?

<p>Bala, the accomplished monk. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How is the relationship between Hinayana and Mahayana schools described?

<p>They coexisted for centuries with mutual interests. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the wheel symbolize in the context of Buddhism as presented?

<p>The Law of the Buddha and his teachings. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the purpose of the shrine built by King Prasenajit?

<p>To recall the sermon given by the Buddha. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements is true regarding the worship of Buddha images?

<p>Both Hinayana and Mahayana schools were involved in the worship of images. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'dhammadana' refer to in this context?

<p>A gift of a vihara to the monks. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Synoptic mode

The way a story or event is presented, focusing on the most important parts.

Prasenajitpillar panel

A panel on the Prasenajitpillar at Bharhut that depicts King Prasenajit's visit to a shrine.

Inscribed label

The label identifying King Prasenajit on the Bharhut panel.

Sravasti

The city where King Prasenajit's capital was located, where he met the Buddha.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Aniconic art

The belief that early Buddhism was solely aniconic, followed by a later Mahayana phase with anthropomorphic icons, is incorrect.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Emblem

A symbol that represents something without directly depicting it.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Aniconism

The use of symbols to represent religious figures or concepts without depicting them directly. For example, using a tree instead of a Buddha statue.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Emblems in Early Buddhist Art

A variety of symbols used in early Buddhist art to represent the Buddha, such as footprints, thrones, parasols, or pillars of light.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Multilayered Significance of Emblems

The understanding that emblems can represent multiple meanings simultaneously. For example, a relief sculpture might depict both a specific event in the Buddha's life and the sacred site where it occurred.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Narrative Art in Early Buddhism

The belief that early Buddhist art aimed to showcase the Buddha's life story through symbolic representations.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Conflation of Meanings in Early Buddhist Art

The practice of incorporating elements from later periods into depictions of earlier historical events. For example, including a shrine built centuries after the Buddha's enlightenment in a relief depicting his enlightenment.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Firthas

Sacred places associated with events in the Buddha's life, marked by shrines or monuments.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Prasenajit Pillar

The pillar erected by King Prasenajit in honor of the Bodhi tree, where the Buddha attained enlightenment.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Mucalinda naga

The sixth week after the Buddha's enlightenment, when he was sheltered by Mucalinda naga, a serpent king or nāga, from heavy rain.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Early aniconism, late iconism

A belief that contradicts the historical reality, stating early Buddhism was solely aniconic, followed by a later Mahayana phase with anthropomorphic icons.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Deep contemplation

The act of deep contemplation or meditation, typically done by spiritual figures such as the Buddha.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Buddha's biography

A biographical narrative about the Buddha's life and teachings.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Stupa

The stupa is a mound-like Buddhist structure that traditionally holds relics of the Buddha or other important figures. It represents the enlightenment and the path to liberation.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Wheel of Doctrine

The Wheel of Doctrine, symbolizing the Buddha's teachings and path to enlightenment, is a significant icon in Buddhism.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Circumambulation

The circumambulation of a sacred site, like a stupa or shrine, is a ritual practice involving walking around it in a clockwise direction.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Dhammadana

The 'dhammadana' is a Buddhist concept that emphasizes the offering of the Dharma (teachings) as a gift to others.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Sarvastivadins

The Sarvastivadins were one of the early Buddhist schools, known for their doctrine of the reality of all phenomena.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Hinayana

The Hinayana (also known as Theravada) is a major branch of Buddhism that emphasizes individual enlightenment.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Mahayana

The Mahayana is a major branch of Buddhism that emphasizes helping all beings achieve enlightenment.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Aniconism vs. Anthropomorphism in Buddhism

Aniconism is the practice of not using images or representations of deities or religious figures. Anthropomorphism is the attribution of human characteristics or qualities to non-human entities.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Synoptic narrative

The act of showing a story or event in a concise and clear way, emphasizing key moments.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Buddha's aniconic presence

A type of Buddhist art that emphasizes the Buddha's presence through symbolic gestures and postures, rather than showing his physical appearance.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Depicting the event itself

The act of depicting an event itself, rather than showing its enactment or a symbolic representation.

Signup and view all the flashcards

The inscription on the Bajaur relic casket

The inscription on the Bajaur relic casket, dated in the reign of the Indo-Greek King Menander (ca. 140-110 B.C.), speaks of the bodily relics of gakyamuni as praina-samada, or "endowed with life."

Signup and view all the flashcards

Anthropomorphic icon

A sculpture or image that is used to represent a religious figure or concept.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Experiencing the Buddha's presence

The presence of the Buddha in a stupa is experienced through the proximity to enshrined relics.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Aniconic representation

In Buddhist art, this refers to depicting a deity or figure through symbols or attributes instead of a direct human form.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Mucalinda's hood as a parasol

The multiheaded hood of Mucalinda, forming a protective canopy over the Buddha, symbolizes his divine protection and support.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Mucalinda's coiled body as a seat

The way Mucalinda, portrayed in purely reptilian form, coils himself to form a seat for the Buddha signifies his reverence and devotion.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Buddha's symbolic representation in art

The Buddha, in the context of this sculpture, is represented symbolically by a seat, representing his presence and spiritual power.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Mucalinda sheltering the Buddha sculpture

The sculpture of Mucalinda sheltering the Buddha, found at Bharhut, signifies the close relationship between the Buddha and the serpent king.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Study Notes

Aniconism and the Multivalence of Emblems

  • Author: Vidya Dehejia
  • Source: Ars Orientalis, Volume 21 (1991)
  • Pages: 45-66
  • Publisher: Freer Gallery of Art, The Smithsonian Institution, and Department of the History of Art, University of Michigan
  • Accessed: January 14, 2019

Key Concepts

  • Aniconism: Worship or veneration of an object representing a god without being an image of the god.

  • Multivalence: Having multiple meanings or interpretations.

  • Emblems: Objects or symbols that represent something different from themselves.

  • Buddhist Emblems (Tree, Pillar, Stūpa): These emblems have multiple layers of interpretation:

  • Aniconic representations of Buddha: Symbolizing the Buddha without aiming for a resemblance.

  • Sacred spots (tirthas): Representing specific locations connected to the Buddha's life. Examples include Bodh Gayā and Śrāvasti.

  • Attributes of the faith: Representing religious concepts, like wisdom associated with a tree or doctrine with a pillar.

  • Interpretation of Emblems: The artist's intent often combined multiple meanings in a single emblem.

  • Significance of context: The exact interpretation often depends on the visual context and overall representation.

  • Early Buddhist Art: Scholarly interpretations have emphasized the singular and exclusive aspects of early Buddhist reliefs, shifting from aniconic depictions in the early 1900s to a more site-oriented interpretation in recent decades.

  • Crucial prerequisites for interpretation: Understanding both the multiple meanings conveyed by major Buddhist emblems (tree, pillar, stūpa) and the multilayered significance of non-figural emblems is crucial.

  • Multilayered significance: Early Buddhist reliefs are read simultaneously as events in the Buddha's life and as the sacred sites where those events took place.

  • Aniconism and Other Religions: Aniconism isn't unique to Buddhism, and similar concepts exist in other non-figurative religious contexts.

  • Aniconism in Buddhist Art: The concept of aniconism is complex, as it often involves imagery and symbolic representations and can shift with time and locale.

Key Figures and Entities

  • Aśvaghoşa: Author who used words with multiple meanings.
  • Āryaśūra: Author who used śleșa or double entendre.
  • Buddhacharita: Literary work written around A.D. 100.
  • Jatakamālā: Work written around the fourth century.
  • Bodh Gayā: Important site associated with the Buddha's enlightenment.
  • Sārnāth: Site associated with the Buddha's first sermon.

Studying That Suits You

Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.

Quiz Team

Related Documents

Aniconism and the Multivalence of Emblems PDF

Description

Test your knowledge on the representations and historical significance of King Prasenajit. This quiz covers key features, historical periods, and artistic depictions related to him. Explore the meanings behind various symbols and scenes associated with this important figure.

More Like This

King Leopold's Ghost, Chapters 1-2 Flashcards
25 questions

King Leopold's Ghost, Chapters 1-2 Flashcards

DivineCopper avatar
DivineCopper
King of Shadows Chapters 1-6 Quiz
59 questions

King of Shadows Chapters 1-6 Quiz

RevolutionaryDulcimer avatar
RevolutionaryDulcimer
King Arthur Book 3 Chapter 1 Flashcards
13 questions

King Arthur Book 3 Chapter 1 Flashcards

QuietRubidium avatar
QuietRubidium
King Lear Quotes Flashcards
17 questions

King Lear Quotes Flashcards

AmicableNeodymium avatar
AmicableNeodymium
Use Quizgecko on...
Browser
Open
Browser
Browser