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Dharma Wheel
The Dharma Wheel (Sanskrit: Dharmachakra) is one of the most important symbols in Buddhism, representing the teachings of the Buddha and the path to enlightenment. Similarly to how a cross symbolizes Christianity or the Star of David symbolizes Judaism, this symbol is used to signify Buddhism worldwide. It is often depicted as a wheel with 8 spokes, each element carrying deep symbolic meaning.

Symbolism of the Dharma Wheel
  • The Circle: Represents the perfection of the Dharma, the Buddha’s teachings.
  • The Hub: Symbolizes moral discipline, which keeps the mind steady and centered.
  • The Rim: Stands for meditative concentration, holding everything together.
  • The Spokes: Their number varies, but the most common is eight, representing the Noble Eightfold Path, the core principles of Buddhist practice.


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​Peacocks hold deep symbolic meaning in Buddhism, often representing purity, transformation, and enlightenment. Their ability to consume poisonous plants without harm is seen as a metaphor for spiritual resilience—the ability to take in life's challenges and transform them into wisdom.
Symbolism of Peacocks in Buddhism
  • Purity & Enlightenment: The peacock’s vibrant feathers symbolize the beauty of an enlightened mind.
  • Transformation of Negativity: Just as peacocks digest poison, Buddhists believe one can transform negative emotions like anger into compassion.
  • Spiritual Openness: Their fanned feathers represent openness to spiritual teachings and acceptance.
  • Endurance & Strength: Peacocks endure suffering without being affected, symbolizing perseverance on the path to enlightenment.

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Peacocks in Buddhist Art & Temples
  • In Chinese Buddhism, peacock feathers are linked to Kwan Yin, the bodhisattva of compassion.
Peacocks in Buddhist Texts
  • The Poison Destroying Peacock Mind Training: A Mahayana Buddhist text that teaches how to transform negative emotions into wisdom, much like how peacocks are believed to turn poison into their vibrant feathers.
  • The Peacock King Sutra: This sutra tells the story of the Buddha in a past life as the King of Peacocks, who created a healing spring by pecking at a cliff, offering relief to those suffering from illness.
  • Mahamayuri Vidyarajni: A Buddhist deity known as the Great Peacock Wisdom Queen, believed to protect devotees from poison, disease, and misfortune.
Peacocks in Buddhist Rituals
  • Purification Ceremonies: Peacock feathers are used in Buddhist purification rituals, symbolizing the ability to cleanse negativity and bring spiritual clarity.
  • Healing Practices: In some traditions, chants from the Peacock King Sutra are recited for protection and healing.
  • Iconography: Mahamayuri is often depicted seated on a peacock throne, reinforcing her association with wisdom and protection.