Question

What does the lion motif on Ashokan pillars symbolize?

• A. Wealth and prosperity
• B. Strength, courage, and Buddha's royal lineage
• C. The dominance of the Mauryan military
• D. The four noble truths of Buddhism

Answer 1

Answer:

B. Strength, courage, and Buddha's royal lineage

The sculptural motifs on Ashokan pillars were carefully selected to align with the principles of Dhamma. Each symbol holds deep significance in Buddhist literature. Lotus – Represents purity and fertility. According to Buddhist texts, lotus flowers bloomed where Siddhartha took his first seven steps after birth. Wheel (Dharmachakra) – Symbolizes the turning of the Wheel of Dharma, referring to Buddha’s first sermon at Sarnath. Lion – Represents strength, courage, and Buddha's royal lineage. Elephant – In Buddhist tradition, Queen Maya dreamt of a white elephant entering her womb, symbolizing Buddha’s conception. Bull – Represents the celestial alignment of stars at the time of Buddha’s birth. Horse – Symbolizes Buddha’s renunciation, representing his departure from his home in search of enlightenment.