The second layer of the wheel shows two-half circles: These three animals represent the three poisons, which are the core of the Wheel of Life.įrom these three poisons, the whole cycle of existence evolves. The particular bird used in this diagram represents an Indian bird that is very attached to its partner. The snake represents aversion or anger this is because it will be aroused and strike at the slightest touch. The pig stands for ignorance this comparison is based on the Indian concept of a pig being the most foolish of animals since it sleeps in the dirtiest places and eats whatever comes to its mouth. They represent the three poisons of ignorance, attachment, and aversion. In the hub of the wheel are three animals a pig, a snake, and a bird. Wheel of life is also known as the Wheel of becoming, Wheel of cyclic existence, Wheel of existence, Wheel of life, Wheel of rebirth, Wheel of samsara, Wheel of suffering, Wheel of transformation Central Ring: The 3 Poisons of the Wheel of Life In the Mahayana Buddhist tradition, it is believed that the drawing was designed by the Buddha himself in order to help ordinary people understand the Buddhist teachings.

The bhavacakra is a symbolic representation of samsara found on the outside walls of Tibetan Buddhist temples and monasteries in the Indo-Tibet region. Legend has it that the Buddha himself created the first depiction of the bhavacakra, and the story of how he gave the illustration to King Rudrayana appears in the anthology of Buddhist narratives called the Divyavadana. Legendary Story of the Wheel of Life Painting We suggest shopping with your local frame or craft store to select a style that best suits you and your thangka! Looks great in a classic Western style photo frame or wooden magnetic poster hanger frames.The Wheel of Life or “Bhavacakra” is well recognized as an important meditation tool by Buddhist monks, and also by students to learn and understand Buddha’s teachings. Measures approximately 17.3 by 22.5 inches. Comes unframed and ready for Western style framing of your choosing. The complicated designs, intricate brushstrokes, and extraordinary detail make these thangkas genuine works of art. This thangka is done entirely by hand on cotton canvas using natural mineral and vegetable pigments with 24K gold details. It follows natural cycles of time, the seasons and the planets, and is associated with enhancing physical and emotional balance. It is very important in Tibetan culture and is used to set dates for various Buddhist ceremonies. The Tibetan calendar is unique and lunar based. The fearsome figure holding the wheel represents impermanence. It can be found on the outside walls of many Buddhist monasteries and temples to help people understand Buddhist teachings. The Wheel of Life is a symbolic representation of samsara and cycle of existence.

Each piece of the wheel depicts its own scene.

This thangka depicts a beautifully detailed Tibetan wheel of life and astrology calendar design filled with various deities, Tibetan animals, and beautiful scenery.

The word thangka translates to 'recorded message.' Thangka painting is an ancient Tibetan Buddhist art form that combines deities, symbolism, and sacred geometry.

Thangka painting schools in Nepal help to keep Tibetan traditions alive.

This exquisite Tibetan thangka is hand painted by master artists in the Kathmandu Valley.

Samsara wheel of life