In Buddhism, the Wheel of Dharma is called Dharmachakra [Sanskrit] or the Wheel of Dharma. It is one of the most important symbols of Buddhism and represents the Buddha’s teachings as well as the path to liberation from suffering.
Above the entrance to a traditional Tibetan Buddhist monastery [gompa], there is almost always a very distinctive arrangement:
In the center stands the Dharmachakra [»Wheel of Dharma«] with eight spokes. It symbolizes the Buddha’s first sermon and the Noble Eightfold Path.
To the left and right of the wheel is a reclining gazelle. The animals face the wheel, never looking away from it. They are a reminder of Sarnath, the »Gazelle Park«, where the Buddha delivered his first sermon and thereby set the »Wheel of Dharma« in motion.
The Wheel of Dharma [Sanskrit: Dharmachakra], the “Wheel of Dharma,” is one of the most important symbols of Buddhism. It represents the Buddha’s teachings and the path to overcoming suffering.
The wheel symbolizes the cycle of life and the transmission of Buddhist teachings.
The spokes often represent the Noble Eightfold Path:
- Right View
- Right Intention
- Right Speech
- Right Action
- Right Livelihood
- Right Effort
- Right Mindfulness
- Right Concentration [Meditation]
The center of the wheel represents inner peace, balance, and the overcoming of greed, hatred, and ignorance.
The circular shape indicates that the Buddha’s teachings are complete and have no beginning or end.
According to Buddhist tradition, the Buddha first set the »Wheel of Dharma« in motion when he delivered his first sermon after his enlightenment. This event is known as the “Turning of the Wheel of Dharma.”