To which king belongs the Lion capital at Sarnath?a)Chandraguptab)Asho...
The Lion Capital at Sarnath and its belonging to King Ashoka
The Lion Capital at Sarnath is an ancient Indian sculpture that is considered one of the most iconic symbols of India. It is also known as the Ashoka Pillar, as it was commissioned by Emperor Ashoka during the Maurya Empire. Here is a detailed explanation of the connection between the Lion Capital and King Ashoka:
The Lion Capital
- The Lion Capital is a sandstone sculpture that features four lions standing back to back. It is mounted on an inverted lotus base with a circular abacus.
- The capital is adorned with various intricate carvings and symbols, including four galloping horses, a bull, an elephant, and a lion.
- The sculpture is approximately 2.3 meters tall and was originally placed on top of a pillar at Sarnath, a Buddhist site near Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh, India.
King Ashoka
- Ashoka was an emperor of the Maurya Dynasty who ruled most of the Indian subcontinent from 268 to 232 BCE.
- Initially known for his military conquests and expansionist policies, Ashoka later converted to Buddhism after witnessing the horrors of war during the Kalinga War.
- As a Buddhist ruler, Ashoka promoted the principles of Buddhism and embraced a policy of non-violence and compassion.
- He erected numerous pillars and edicts throughout his empire to spread Buddhist teachings and moral values.
- The Lion Capital at Sarnath is one of the many pillars erected by Ashoka, serving as a symbol of his patronage of Buddhism.
Connection between the Lion Capital and King Ashoka
- The Lion Capital at Sarnath is believed to have been erected by King Ashoka to commemorate the site where Gautama Buddha first taught the Dharma (Buddhist teachings) after attaining enlightenment.
- The capital is a significant representation of Ashoka's commitment to Buddhism and his efforts to spread the religion across his empire.
- The Lion Capital has also become the national emblem of India, appearing on Indian currency, official documents, and government emblems.
In conclusion, the Lion Capital at Sarnath belongs to King Ashoka, an influential ruler of the Maurya Empire who played a crucial role in the spread of Buddhism. The capital serves as a symbol of Ashoka's patronage of Buddhism and his efforts to promote peace and compassion throughout his empire.
View all questions of this test
To which king belongs the Lion capital at Sarnath?a)Chandraguptab)Asho...
A 13th-century replica of the Sarnath pillar and capital in Wat Umong near Chiang Mai, Thailand built by King Mangrai, preserves its crowning Ashoka Chakra or Dharmachakra. The wheel on the capital, below the lions, is the model for the one in the flag of India.
To which king belongs the Lion capital at Sarnath?a)Chandraguptab)Asho...
The Lion Capital at Sarnath and its association with King Ashoka
The Lion Capital at Sarnath is an iconic sculpture that holds immense historical and cultural significance in India. It is widely recognized as the national emblem of India and can be found on the Indian currency notes and official documents. The Lion Capital is a magnificent representation of ancient Indian art and craftsmanship. It is believed to have been erected by Emperor Ashoka, making option 'B' the correct answer.
1. Historical Context
- Emperor Ashoka was one of the most significant rulers in Indian history. He ruled the Mauryan Empire from 268 BCE to 232 BCE.
- After the brutal Kalinga War, Ashoka underwent a profound transformation and embraced Buddhism. He dedicated the rest of his reign to spreading the principles of Buddhism and promoting peace and harmony.
- Ashoka erected numerous pillars and rock edicts throughout his empire to disseminate his message and teachings.
2. The Lion Capital at Sarnath
- The Lion Capital at Sarnath is a remarkable example of Ashoka's patronage of Buddhism and his architectural endeavors.
- It is a sandstone sculpture that originally stood atop an Ashoka Pillar at Sarnath, a significant Buddhist site located near Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh, India.
- The capital consists of four lions standing back to back, symbolizing power, courage, and royalty. The lions are mounted on a circular abacus decorated with intricate carvings of an elephant, a horse, a bull, and a lion.
- The abacus itself rests on a bell-shaped lotus, which is a symbol of purity and enlightenment.
- The capital also features an inscribed Dharma Chakra (Wheel of Law) between the lions, representing the teachings of Buddha.
3. Significance
- The Lion Capital at Sarnath is particularly significant because it marks the spot where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment.
- The sculpture embodies Ashoka's dedication to Buddhism and the principles of non-violence, compassion, and righteousness.
- The pillar and the capital symbolize the spread of Buddhism, as well as the political and religious authority of Ashoka.
- Its adoption as the national emblem of India reflects the country's commitment to these values.
In conclusion, the Lion Capital at Sarnath is associated with Emperor Ashoka, who erected it as a symbol of his devotion to Buddhism and his efforts to promote peace and righteousness. This magnificent sculpture serves as a testament to Ashoka's legacy and continues to inspire people with its artistic and spiritual significance.