Wheel of Dharma (ධර්ම චක්‍රය)

The Buddha’s first sermon at Sarnath set in motion the Wheel of Dharma, teaching the Four Noble Truths and the Middle Way.

Dhammacakkappavattana Sutta

Delivered to the five ascetics at Deer Park, Sarnath, this sermon introduced the Four Noble Truths and the Middle Way, rejecting extremes of indulgence and asceticism.

Symbolism of the Wheel

Circle of Dharma

The wheel represents the endless cycle of teaching and practice, turning with each realization.

Eight Spokes

Symbolize the Noble Eightfold Path: right view, intention, speech, action, livelihood, effort, mindfulness, and concentration.

Hub and Rim

The hub represents discipline, the rim represents mindfulness, holding the path together.

Historical Impact

The Wheel of Dharma became a universal Buddhist symbol, appearing in art, flags, and temples across Asia. It signifies the spread of the Buddha’s teaching and the continuity of Dharma.

Visual Dharma Wheel (Eightfold Path)

A symbolic wheel with eight spokes, each labeled with a factor of the Noble Eightfold Path.

Right View Right Intention Right Speech Right Action Right Livelihood Right Effort Right Mindfulness Right Concentration
Reading the wheel: The hub symbolizes discipline and stability; the eight spokes are the path factors; the rim is mindfulness binding the path into a single, living practice.

Sources and Further Reading

The Wheel of Dharma is both a teaching and a symbol, reminding practitioners of the path to liberation.