Wheel Of Dharma ☸
Copy & Meaning

A dharma wheel — the eight-spoked wheel (dharmachakra) that is the oldest symbol of Buddhism, representing the teachings of the Buddha and the Noble Eightfold Path. The wheel's turning symbolizes the Buddha's first teaching (setting the wheel in motion) and the ongoing practice of the dharma that leads to liberation from suffering. Eight spokes represent the eight aspects of the path to enlightenment.

The wheel appears on the Indian national flag, reflecting the subcontinent's deep spiritual heritage. Used for Buddhist cultural and religious content, meditation and mindfulness discussions, Indian cultural heritage, spiritual practice and philosophy, interfaith appreciation of wheel symbolism, and the specific teachings and practices of the Buddhist tradition across its many schools.