The Sanchi Stupa, one of the oldest and most significant examples of Buddhist architecture, contains sculptures that represent various important symbolic elements of Buddha’s life and teachings. These symbols hold deep meanings related to the life of Buddha:
- Empty seat represents the symbol of Mahaparinibbana, which is the state of Buddha’s final enlightenment and death. It signifies his departure from the mortal world and his attainment of nirvana.
- Gajalakshmi represents the goddess of wealth, prosperity, and good fortune, and it is used to symbolize prosperity.
- Wheel symbolizes the Dharma Chakra, or the Wheel of Dharma, which is associated with the teachings of the Buddha. It signifies the spreading of the Buddha’s teachings.
- Shalbanjika symbolizes the first sermon of Buddha at Sarnath. This sculpture marks a significant event in Buddha’s life when he began teaching the path to enlightenment.
Thus, the correct matching is:
a i, b ii, c iii, d iv.