The Buddha was the one who turned the wheel of the dharma and thus the wheel symbol is the Dharmachakra (wheel of law) The Tibetan term for this symbol is chos kyi'khor lo which means the wheel of transformation.
The wheel's motion is a metaphor for the rapid spiritual change caused by the teachings of the Buddha
The eight spokes of the wheel symbolize the Noble Eightfold Path set out by the Buddha in his teachings.
The wheel also represents the endless cycle of samsara (or rebirth) which can only be escaped by means of the Buddha's teachings.
Some Buddhists regard the wheel's three basic parts as symbols of the "three trainings" …show more content…
Groupings of eight auspicious symbols were originally used in India at ceremonies such as an investiture or coronation of a king. An early grouping of symbols included: throne, swastika, handprint, hooked knot, vase of jewels, water libation flask, pair of fishes, lidded bowl. In Buddhism, these eight symbols of good fortune represent the offerings made by the gods to Shakyamuni Buddha immediately after he gained enlightenment.
The Umbrella or parasol (chhatra) demonstrates the impression of wealth or royalty. This is because one had to be rich enough town this and further to have someone carry it for you. It points to the royal ease and power experienced in the Buddhist life.
The two fishes originally represented as the two main sacred rivers of India - the Ganges and Yamuna. They have religious significance in Hindu, Jain and Buddhist traditions but also in Christianity ( the feeding of the five thousand). In Buddhism, the fish symbolize happiness as they have complete freedom of movement in the water. They represent fertility and abundance. Often drawn in the form of carp which are regarded in the Orient as sacred on account of their elegant beauty, size and …show more content…
The lotus flower, representing 'primordial purity' of body, speech, and mind, floating above the muddy waters of attachment and desire; represents the full blossoming of wholesome deeds in blissful liberation. (This part was of the internet)
Conch - The right-turning white conch shell, representing the beautiful, deep, melodious, interpenetrating and pervasive sound of the Buddhadharma which awakens disciples from the deep slumber of ignorance and urges them to accomplish their own welfare and the welfare of others.(THIS TOO)
The Knot - The 'endless knot' or 'eternal knot' it represents the inter-twining of wisdom and compassion also represents the mutual dependence of religious doctrine and secular affairs.
Victory Banner - Dhvaja banner was a military standard of ancient Indian warfare. Makara Dhvaja has become latter an emblem of the Vedic god of love and desire - Kamadeva. Within the Tibetan tradition a list of eleven different forms of the victory banner is given to represent eleven specific methods for overcoming defilements. Many variations of the dhvaja's design can be seen on the roofs of Tibetan monasteries to symbolyze the Buddha's victory over four