UPSC CSE / State Exams

Jain Iconography

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

Match the following Tirthankaras with their symbols: | Tirthankara | Symbol | | :--- | :--- | | A. Adinatha | 1. Bull | | B. Mallinatha | 2. Water Jar | | C. Parshavanatha | 3. Serpent | | D. Sambhavnatha | 4. Horse |

Solution & Analysis

Answer: A

Concept Each of the 24 Jain Tirthankaras is associated with a specific animal or object (Lanchhana) to distinguish their iconography.

Explanation Iconographic texts like the 'Pratima Lakshana' and various temple carvings confirm these associations.

Logical Breakup
Adinatha (Rishabhanatha): Bull (1).
Mallinatha: Water Jar (Kumbha) (4).
Parshavanatha: Snake (Shesha) (3).
Sambhavnatha: Horse (2).

Active Recall

Question

What is the symbol for the 24th Tirthankara, Mahavira?

Answer

The Lion is the symbol associated with Lord Mahavira.

Core Insight

These symbols were essential for lay followers to identify specific deities in temples where statues are otherwise identical in facial and bodily form.