What Is the Eight Spoke Wheel?

The eight spoke wheel is a symbol of Buddhism recognized around the world.

The eight spoke wheel, also known as the dharmachakra, dharma wheel or the wheel of the teaching, is an important symbol of Buddhism. This emblem has ancient origins and is used today on the stamps, coins and flags of many Buddhist nations.

History

The eight spoke wheel, similar to a wagon or chariot wheel, has its origins in the ancient Indian Buddhist dharmachakra emblems of the 3rd century B.C. during the rule of the Indian emperor Ashoka.

Art

The eight spoke dharma wheel is an iconic symbol of Buddha used in the art of ancient Asian cultures. It is shown balanced on the backs of four lions or flanked by two deer. Images of Buddha show the wheels on his palms and the soles of his feet. Dharmachakras are common in mandala designs.

Symbolism

The wheel symbolizes the endless cycle of rebirth, or samsara, with the spokes representing the Noble Eightfold Path to enlightenment taught by Buddha. In the early 3rd century B.C., before statues and paintings of Buddha were made, the dharma wheels were central temple symbols used in rites of worship and meditation.

References

• Religion Facts: Buddhist Wheel Symbol Dharmachakra
• Kadampa Buddhism: Dharma Wheel
• 1,000 Ventures: Buddhism