What is the Buddhist universal symbol?

A smiling statue of Buddha

Answer:

There is no single "Buddhist" symbol like th Christians' cross. There are, however, several symbols that are used by Buddhists, these are:

• Lotus flower (Purity and enlightenment)
• Endless knot, or, the Mandala (Harmony)
• Golden Fish pair (Conjugal happiness and freedom)
• Victory Banner (Victorious battle)
• Wheel of Dharma (Knowledge)
• Treasure Vase (Inexhaustible treasure and wealth)
• Parasol (Protection from the elements)
• Conch shell (Thoughts of the Buddha)

The Dharma wheel is used by the US Military to mark the graves of Buddhist military personnel.

It should be noted that Buddhists are not tied up wth their symbols like CHristians are with their crosses - defaming a cross is a significant event to a Christian with no BUddhist parallel.