Understanding the Dharma Wheel: This Ancient Symbol Holds Secret Meanings

chanakyakripa

The Dharma Wheel is anAshtamangala, or one of ‘Eight Auspicious Symbols’, a set of sacred symbolsfound in Indian religions. Although the Dharma Wheel is found also in Hinduismand Jainism, it is best-known as a Buddhist symbol. Known also as a Dharmachakra,the Dharma Wheel in Buddhism is an important symbol that represents theteachings of Buddha. The wheel’s symbolism, however, may beinterpreted in a number of different ways.

Wheel of the Law

The word ‘dharma’ may be translatedto mean ‘law’, and therefore, the Dharma Wheel may be said to be the Wheel ofLaw. This well-known Buddhist symbol may have had its origins in Hinduism, asthe god Vishnu is commonlydepicted as carrying a wheel / discus. In Hinduism, the wheel / discus isregarded to be a powerful weapon capable of conquering passions and desires.

Wheel of a Chariot

The Dharma Wheel is also described as being the wheel of achariot, and consists of three elements – the hub, the rim, and the spokes.These elements of the Dharma Wheel, however, may be depicted in a variety ofways. For example, the hub may be an empty circle, another wheel, a yin-yangsymbol, or three shapes swirling together. Although the Dharma Wheel iscommonly depicted as having eight spokes, this is not always the case. Thedifferent number of spokes represent different ideas.

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