The Dharma Wheel & Deer Adorn Every Buddhist Monastery Entrance

The Dharma Wheel and Deer are cherished symbols that grace the entrance of every Buddhist monastery, representing the profound teachings of the Buddha. The Dharma Wheel, featuring its eight spokes, signifies the Noble Eightfold Path, which guides practitioners toward enlightenment. The pair of deer, positioned alongside the Wheel, symbolize the peaceful sharing of the Dharma, reminding us of the Buddha’s first sermon at Deer Park in Sarnath.

Together, these sacred symbols foster a tranquil and holy environment, encouraging reflection and spiritual growth. This blog explores the profound significance of the Dharma Wheel and Deer, highlighting how they embody the essential principles of Buddhism.

The Role of Monastery Entrance Symbols in Buddhist Architecture

The strategic placement of the Dharma Wheel and deer at the entrance of Buddhist monasteries is no accident. These symbols are carefully chosen to create an environment that is both welcoming and spiritually charged.

A Gateway to the Sacred

• First Impressions: As one nears a Buddhist monastery, the entrance establishes the atmosphere for what awaits inside. The dharma wheel and deer instantly convey the core of the Buddhist journey—achieving enlightenment through wisdom, compassion, and the seamless connection of all living beings. They act as both a visual and spiritual welcome to enter a realm devoted to personal transformation.

• Spiritual Threshold: The entrance, adorned with these symbols, marks the boundary between the mundane world and the sacred realm of Dharma. The dharma wheel, with its endless cycle, reminds visitors of the eternal truths that await them inside, while the deer evokes a sense of gentle guardianship and natural purity.

• Contemplative Environment: The presence of these symbols at the entrance of the monastery creates a serene environment for contemplation even before stepping into the main area. They serve as a continual reminder of the principles of mindfulness and awareness that are fundamental to Buddhist teachings. For those who practice, this first meeting with the Dharma wheel and deer can be a grounding moment—a chance to reflect on the fleeting nature of life and the timeless essence of the Dharma.

• Architectural Harmony: In many monasteries, the design and positioning of these symbols are thoughtfully woven into the overall architecture. Their artistic expression—be it through detailed carvings, colorful murals, or skillfully crafted metalwork—shows the relationship between form and function in Buddhist art. This creates a space where every aspect, from the majestic entrance to the tiniest decorative feature, carries significance and intention.

The Origins of Dharma Wheel and Deer

The roots of the Dharma Wheel and Deer are closely linked to the life and teachings of Siddhartha Gautama, the historical Buddha. His enlightenment and teachings, along with the spread of the Dharma, led to a rich array of icons designed to convey intricate spiritual concepts in visually accessible ways. Among these symbols, the dharma wheel and the deer stand out as significant representations of the Buddha’s teachings and the harmony of the natural world.

The Dharma Wheel: A Symbol of the Buddha’s Teachings

The Dharma Wheel (Dharmachakra) is one of the most recognizable symbols in Buddhism. It represents the Buddha's teaching and the universal truth of the Dharma. Here are several facets of its significance:

1. The Turning of the Wheel

The term “Dharmachakra” translates to “the wheel of Dharma.” After the Buddha achieved enlightenment, he set this wheel in motion by giving his first sermon at Sarnath. This significant event, referred to as the “Turning of the Wheel of Dharma,” signified the start of spreading his teachings throughout the world.

2. Eightfold Path

Dharmachakra features eight spokes, which symbolize the Noble Eightfold Path, the core framework of Buddhist practice that guides adherents toward enlightenment. Each spoke reflects a crucial aspect of the path:

• Right View
• Right Intention
• Right Speech
• Right Action
• Right Livelihood
• Right Effort
• Right Mindfulness
• Right Concentration

3. Impermanence and Continuity

The circular shape of the Dharmachakra represents the cyclical nature of life, illustrating the endless cycle of birth, death, and rebirth (samsara). Additionally, it symbolizes the continuity of the Buddha’s teachings, which remain relevant to practitioners.

The Deer: A Symbol of Harmony and Awakening

The pair of deer holds a special place in Buddhist iconography, particularly due to its connection with one of the Buddha’s earliest and most celebrated sermons:

1. The Deer Park Sermon

Shakyamuni Buddha gave his first sermon in the Deer Park at Sarnath. The deer in the area hold significant symbolism—they embody gentleness, alertness, and a deep bond with nature. In Buddhist tradition, deer are not just animals; they are viewed as enlightened beings that remind us of the inherent purity and beauty found in the natural world.

2. Historical Symbolism

According to the Buddhist lore, the Dharma Wheel is believed to have been presented as a thousand-spoked wheel by Brahma to Shakyamuni Buddha, urging him to impart the sacred teachings of the Dharma. At that moment, a pair of a male and a female deer, known as the Krishnasara (Tibetan: kri sha na sa ra), or antelopes of compassion, appeared in the forest. With steady, joyful gazes, they gazed upon the wheel with pure delight. Since then, the deer pair has been a special symbol for the devotees.

3. Symbol of the Dharma

The Dharmachakra represents the teachings of the Buddha, while the deer at the entrance of a monastery symbolizes his initial connection with nature—a pivotal moment that sparked the spread of his teachings. Often portrayed in a poised and attentive posture, the deer invites practitioners to appreciate the wisdom found in nature and the interconnectedness of all life.

Choose Your Dharma Wheel and Deer Set From Evamratna

At EvamRatna, we take inspiration from the rich traditions and profound symbolism of Buddhist art. Our commitment to celebrating the heritage of Vajrayana Buddhism is evident in every product we create. From intricately designed decor pieces to handcrafted statues, our offerings capture the timeless beauty and spiritual depth of symbols like the dharma wheel and deer.

Below are our hand-picked Dharma Wheel and Deer set to set up at your space. 

1. Gold-plated Dharma Wheel with Deer Set

This stunning gold-plated Dharma Wheel with Deer Set is the top pick on our list that can elevate your spiritual practice. The beautiful gold plating highlights the exceptional craftsmanship, making it a stunning decoration for religious ceremonies or a thoughtful gift for Buddhists and collectors of artifacts. The total weight of this set is 1.376 kg.

Attribute of the Dharma Wheel	Details
Dimensions	Height: 18 cm Base Width: 10.5 cm
Weight	0.466 kg
Composition	Copper Body, Gold-plated, and Acrylic Painting

 

Attribute of the Deer	Details
Dimensions	Height: 13 cm  Base Width: 11.5 cm
Weight	0.91 kg
Composition	Copper Body, Gold-plated, and Acrylic Painting

 

2. Silver-plated Dharma Wheel with Deer Set

This gorgeous silver-plated Dharma Wheel and Deer set ensures that you bring Buddhist spirituality to your space. This set exudes elegance and serenity, crafted from a copper base and beautifully plated in silver. The total weight of this set is 0.804 kg.

Attribute of the Dharma Wheel	Details
Dimensions	Height: 28 cm Base Width: 16.5 cm
Weight	0.296 kg
Composition	Copper Body, Electro Silver Plated

 

Attribute of the Deer	Details
Dimensions	Height: 19.5 cm Base Width: 22.5 cm
Weight	0.296 kg
Composition	Copper Body, Electro Silver Plated

 

3. Copper Dharma Wheel with Deer Set 

This full-body copper set embodies the serene and spiritual significance of the Buddha's teachings. On top of that, this set is a perfect fit for personal altars and meditation areas so you can practice a peaceful prayer. The total weight of this set is 0.550 kg.

Attribute of the Dharma Wheel	Details
Dimensions	Height: 13.5 cm Base Width: 8 cm
Weight	0.224 kg
Composition	Copper Body, Gold-plated, and Acrylic Painting

 

Attribute of the Deer	Details
Dimensions	Height: 8 cm Base Width: 8.5 cm
Weight	0.324 kg
Composition	Copper Body, Gold-plated, and Acrylic Painting

 

Embrace The Dharma Wheel & Deer for Spiritual Harmony

The presence of the Dharma Wheel and deer at the entrance of every Buddhist monastery is a profound reminder of the Buddha’s timeless teachings and the intrinsic beauty of the natural world. These symbols not only signify the transformative journey of enlightenment but also serve as enduring guardians of the Dharma—a call to embrace mindfulness, compassion, and inner strength.

At EvamRatna, we are inspired by this rich legacy and the deep spiritual resonance of Vajrayana Buddhism. Our curated collections, from meticulously crafted Dharma Wheels to elegant deer sculptures, are designed to bring these timeless symbols into your modern living space. By integrating these sacred icons into your home, you invite a daily reminder of the eternal cycle of wisdom and compassion that the Buddha envisioned.

Explore more options of the Dharma Wheel and Deer set at EvamRatna.