Devadatta’s Assassination Attempt

PAKISTAN

The relief portrays the conspiracy against the Buddha’s life by his jealous cousin, Devadatta. A wall divides the relief, with the Buddha located on the right. He holds onto the wall for support, since a chip flying from a boulder intended to crush him has injured his foot. The bearded Vajradhara, depicted carrying a vajra, stays close to protect the Buddha from further harm. Two figures are paying homage at the Buddha’s feet. Two more figures with hands joined in reverence are located on the other side of the wall. The figure standing on the far left with one hand on his hip is believed to be Devadatta, who shows no remorse. The figure with a weapon shows surprise.