Which are the important symbols related to the Buddha?

A. Bodhi tree
B. Camel
C. Mango tree
D. Stupa
E. Dharma Chakra

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

A, D, E only

The correct answer is Option (2) → A, D, E only

A. Bodhi tree
B. Camel
C. Mango tree
D. Stupa
E. Dharma Chakra

Explanation:

Bodhi Tree: The tree under which Siddhartha Gautama attained enlightenment and became the Buddha. The Bodhi Tree is a sacred symbol in Buddhism.
Stupa: A mound-like structure that contains relics of the Buddha and serves as a place of meditation and worship.
Dharma Chakra (Wheel of Dharma): Symbolizes the Buddha’s teachings and the path to enlightenment. The eight spokes of the Dharma Chakra represent the Noble Eightfold Path.

Art historians had to acquire familiarity with hagiographies of the Buddha in order to understand Buddhist sculpture. According to hagiographies, the Buddha attained enlightenment while meditating under a tree. 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. As is obvious, such sculptures cannot be understood literally – for instance, the tree does not stand simply for a tree, but symbolises an event in the life of the Buddha. In order to understand such symbols, historians have to familiarise themselves with the traditions of those who produced these works of art.