UPSC CSE Prelims 2018

Buddhist Iconography and Beliefs

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

With reference to the Indian History, who among the following is a future Buddha, yet to come to save the world?

Solution & Analysis

Answer: C

Concept Buddhist eschatology (study of end times/future) includes the prophecy of a successor to the current Gautama Buddha.

Explanation Maitreya is a Bodhisattva who currently resides in the Tushita Heaven and will descend to Earth when the Dharma has been forgotten to lead sentient beings to enlightenment.

Logical Breakup

Logic 1: Option C is correct. Maitreya is universally recognized across all Buddhist traditions as the 'Buddha of the Future'.

Logic 2: Avalokiteshvara (A) is the Bodhisattva of compassion. Padmapani (D) is a form of Avalokiteshvara (the lotus bearer). Lokesvara (B) is a title for Avalokiteshvara as 'Lord of the World'.

Active Recall

Question

How is Maitreya typically depicted in Buddhist art?

Answer

He is often shown sitting on a throne with his legs down (European style), signifying his readiness to descend to earth.

Core Insight

The concept of Maitreya reflects a cyclic view of time where the truth is periodically lost and rediscovered by a new Buddha.

With reference to the Indian History, who among the following is a future Buddha, yet to come to save the world?

Solution & Analysis

Active Recall

Core Insight

Practice Navigation