Significance of Wheel of Dharma
Synonyms: Dharma wheel, Dharmachakra, Wheel of law, Buddhist wheel
In Dutch: Wiel van Dharma; In Finnish: Dharman pyörä
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Wheel of Dharma'
The Wheel of Dharma in Buddhism symbolizes the teachings of the Buddha, representing the continuous dissemination of wisdom and ethical principles aimed at alleviating suffering and guiding sentient beings toward enlightenment and understanding.
From: Mahavastu (great story)
(1) The teaching of the Buddha, symbolized by a wheel, representing the path to enlightenment.[1] (2) A symbolic representation of the teachings of the Buddha, signifying the path to enlightenment.[2] (3) The teaching of the dharma, akin to a cycle of teachings that brings forth spiritual enlightenment.[3] (4) A symbol of the teaching and spreading of Buddhist principles, which brings light and guidance to those in darkness.[4] (5) The teachings of the Buddha, which are likened to a wheel that turns and spreads knowledge and liberation throughout the world.[5]
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) The teachings and principles expounded by the Buddha, which facilitate the path to enlightenment.[6] (2) A central metaphor in Buddhism signifying the path of Buddha's teachings and practices towards enlightenment.[7] (3) The teachings of the Buddha, which when preached, serve to guide beings towards enlightenment.[8] (4) The fundamental teachings and principles of Buddhism that the bodhisattva expresses, signifying the dissemination of wisdom.[9] (5) A significant event in Buddhism, marked by a cry of admiration from the ten directions, which did not impact the Buddha's stability.[10]
From: Bodhisattvacharyavatara
(1) A metaphorical term representing the teachings of Buddhism that are turned or transmitted by the teacher for the benefit of sentient beings.[11] (2) The teachings of Buddha as represented by their capacity to address and alleviate the suffering of sentient beings.[12]
From: Mahayana Mahaparinirvana Sutra
(1) The cyclical nature of Buddhist teachings and practice that leads beings toward liberation.[13]
From: Vimalakirti Nirdesa Sutra
(1) The cyclical nature of Buddha's teachings that guide beings towards enlightenment.[14]
From: Lotus Sutra
(1) The cycle of teachings and principles that guide practitioners in their pursuit of enlightenment and understanding of reality.[15]
From: The Great Chariot
(1) The teachings and practices of Buddhism that are spread by spiritual friends to cultivate enlightenment.[16] (2) The wheel of Dharma symbolizes the endless cycle of teachings provided by the Buddha, which are tailored to the needs of sentient beings in different realms.[17] (3) The teaching process in Mahayana Buddhism that is motivated by compassion and aims to benefit all sentient beings.[18]
From: The Six Yogas of Naropa
(1) The heart center associated with the Beyond-Reach Bliss, relevant to the yogic experience of bliss.[19]
Hindu concept of 'Wheel of Dharma'
The Wheel of Dharma in Hinduism symbolizes the cyclical nature of existence, emphasizing the importance of righteousness (Dharma) and representing the cycle of life and truth through spiritual teachings.
From: Garuda Purana
(1) A symbol representing the cycle of life and the teachings of truth, often associated with spiritual practices.[20]
From: Anugita (English translation)
(1) A metaphorical concept introduced by the Brahmana, symbolizing the cyclical nature of existence, where Dharma (righteousness) plays a pivotal role in life and understanding.[21]
The concept of Wheel of Dharma in local and regional sources
The Wheel of Dharma symbolizes the moral order and non-violence championed by Emperor Asoka, representing a compassionate lifestyle that emphasizes ethical living and harmonious coexistence in society.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) The principle of moral order and non-violence endorsed by Emperor Asoka, signifying a compassionate way of life.[22]