In Buddhism, what does the Dharma Wheel represent?
The Dharma Wheel, or "dharmachakra" in Sanskrit, is one of the oldest symbols of Buddhism. Around the globe, it is used to represent Buddhism in the same way that a cross represents Christianity or a Star of David represents Judaism. It is also one of the Eight Auspicious Symbols of Buddhism.
In the Indo-Tibetan Buddhist tradition, the 8 spoked wheel represents the noble Eightfold Path, and the hub, rim, and spokes are also said to represent the three trainings (sila, prajña and samadhi).
More Info:
en.wikipedia.org
What are your thoughts on this subject?
20 Comments
Benedicte Corneliussen
A Dharma Wheel with four spokes symbolizes the Four Noble Truths. When the wheel has eight spokes, it represents the Eightfold Path and Buddhism
Sandy
A Dharma Wheel with four spokes symbolizes the Four Noble Truths ... also an option. Question reported.
catmom
E11-Hitman, I couldn't say it better my self.
catmom
Julie Allen, Agreed.
catmom
Benedicte Corneliussen, Absolutely.
Howard Groopman
Didn't know, but figured it was something like a roulette wheel with different landing spots.
Bob Gorby
I’ll comprehend this samadhi time: I’m busy right now.
Angel Palacios Zea
Perfection. Give me my points.
Al Breyette
Perfection is also a correct answer. At least three viable correct answers to this question.
Rajnish Gautam
Pat Salloum, you are perfectly right. Wrong answer has been provided.
Rajnish Gautam
It mainly represents perfection. Providing only one source from wikipedia is wrong and imperfect. Seems admn. only goes through the source provided by the writer.
Richard D. Boyle
Perfection is a very supportable answer and is the most generally true regardless of unspecified variables.
Pat Salloum
...as such does it not represent perfection?....
Tom Knox
I thought Dharma was married to Greg...LOL!
Joss Coverdale
According to sources, the circular shape represents perfection. It only represents the eight fold path if it has 8 spokes. I dispute this question
Peter Gilchrist
Neither the writer or checkers reviewed this question and answers, 2 answers are correct.
Julie Allen
A Dharma Wheel with four spokes symbolizes the Four Noble Truths. When the wheel has eight spokes, it represents the Eightfold Path and Buddhism. ... In its entirety, the Dharma Wheel symbolizes Buddha's teachings.