Wheel of Life Thangka Art | The Life Circle Tibetan Buddhist Painting
SKU: TP0022
The Wheel of Life Thangka, known as Bhavachakra, encapsulates the profound Buddhist cosmology within the mandala's intricate design. It serves as a visual sermon of the Buddha's teachings, particularly the Four Noble Truths, outlining the existence of suffering, its origins, the cessation of suffering, and the path leading to its end. This artistic creation is not just a painting; it's a spiritual guide, illustrating the cyclical nature of life and the path to Nirvana, the ultimate liberation from the cycle of suffering.
Symbolism and Insights
At the heart of the Wheel of Life are the core principles of Buddhist philosophy, offering a deep dive into the roots of suffering and the mechanisms of karma and rebirth. The painting is a stark reminder of the personal accountability we hold over our destiny, urging introspection and moral vigilance. It's a depiction of the cyclic existence (Samsara) and the pivotal role of actions (Karma) in shaping our journey through various realms of existence.
Painting Design
- Three Poisons: Located at the center, depicting a pig, a rooster, and a snake, symbolizing ignorance, desire, and aversion, respectively. These are the root causes of Samsara.
- Six Realms: Surrounding the central core, each realm represents a different aspect of Samsara:
- God Realm: Pleasure and attachment
- Demi-God Realm: Jealousy and ambition
- Human Realm: Desire and doubt
- Animal Realm: Ignorance and servitude
- Ghost Realm: Greed and hunger
- Hell Realm: Anger and aggression
- Outer Rim: Twelve segments illustrating the Twelve Links of Dependent Origination, showcasing the interconnectedness of causes and conditions leading to suffering.
- Outermost Area: Depicts the Twelve Links in a more elaborate and interconnected manner, emphasizing the cyclical nature of existence.
Cultural and Spiritual Significance
- Educational Tool: Used in monasteries and homes for teaching the principles of Buddhism, meditation, and the path to enlightenment.
- Meditative Aid: Serves as a focus point for meditation, helping practitioners contemplate the cycles of life and the path to liberation from Samsara.
Measures approximately 21.5 x 25.5 inches
*Hand painted Thangka Painting made by local artisan in Nepal. The painting does not include brocade or a frame.