South+Southeast Asia: Vocab Flashcards
What is the meaning of Axis-Mundi? What is an example?
Something (such as a free standing pillar, as in the Maurya dynasty) that marks a sacred site and denotes a link between the human and celestial realms.
EX: The Great Stupa (Mauyra and Satavahana) (c.250 BCE)
What is the meaning of Bodhisattva?
In Buddhism, a being who has attained enlightenment but chooses to remain in this world (i.e put off Nirvana) help others seek enlightenment or spiritual advancements.
What is the meaning of Buddha? What is an example?
In Buddhism, an enlightened being or one who has achieved enlightenment.
EX: Meditating Buddha (Gandhara style) (Kushan) (3rd-4th century)
What is the meaning of Circumambulation? What is an example?
The ritual act of moving around (circling) a sacred object or structure
EX: Chaitya Hall (Satavahana) (1st Century)
EX: Temple of Vishnu (Gupta) (c. 530 CE)
What is the meaning of Lakshana? What is an example?
The thirty-two marks of the historical Buddha, often represented in works of art.
EX: Ushnida, Urna, elongated earlobes, Chakra, etc.
What is the meaning of Mithuna? What is an example?
Amorous couples in Buddhist and Hindu Sculptures.
EX: Chaitya Hall (Satavahana) (1st Century)
What is the meaning of Mudra?
A symbolic hand gesture in buddhist art that denotes certain behaviors, actions or feelings.
Who is Shiva?
One of the three primary deities in Hinduism (along with Brahma and Vishnu); associated with destruction.
What is the meaning of Stupa? What is an example?
In Buddhist architecture, a mound or domed/bell shaped religious monuments containing sacred relics
ex: Chaitya hall (Satavahana) (1st century)
ex: Great stupa (Mayura and Satavahana) (c.250 CE)
What is the meaning of Torana? What is an example?
Sacred gateway in Buddhist and Hindu architecture.
EX: Great Stupa (Satavahana and Mayura) (c.250 CE)
Who is Vishnu?
One of the three primary deities in Hinduism (along with Shiva and Brahma); associated with preservation and protection of the universe.
