The Dharmachakra symbol is represented as a chariot wheel (Sanskrit cakram) with eight or more spokes. It is one of the oldest known Buddhist symbols found in Indian art, appearing with the first surviving post-Harappan Indian iconography in the time of the Buddhist king Asoka. The Dharmacakra has been used by all Buddhist nations as a symbol ever since. In its simplest form, the Dharmachakra is recognized globally as a symbol for Buddhism.
In Buddhism, according to the Pali Canon, the number of spokes of the Dharmacakra represent various meanings:
8 spokes represent the Noble Eightfold Path (Ariya magga).
12 spokes represent the Twelve Laws of Dependent Origination (Paticcasamuppada).
24 spokes represent the Twelve Laws of Dependent Origination and the Twelve Laws of Dependent Termination (Paticcasamuppada).
31 spokes represent 31 realms of existence (11 realms of desire, 16 realms of form and 4 realms of formlessness).
In Buddhism, the various parts of the Dharmacakra also have meaning, representing:
Its overall shape is that of a circle (cakra), representing the perfection of the dharma teaching
The hub stands for discipline, which is the essential core of meditation practice
The rim, which holds the spokes, refers to mindfulness or samadhi which holds everything together
Disclaimer:
Do not approach this series lightly. If this were only a 500' bushwhack, I would call it hellish. The roots will trip you, the branches will shred you and poke your eyes, and the insects will consume you. But it's not 500'. It's over 12 bloody miles! I highly recommend you bring snake boots, lots of water, long pants, long sleeve shirt, lots of water, good hat, pokey stick, lots of water, spare everything, bug spray, lots of water, writing utensils, cell phone, lots of water.
Did I mention bring lots of water?
You may find a laminated clue slip in this cache. If you do, you might want to solve the riddle. This will help you locate the Gaia puzzle cache nearby. Please leave clue slips in the caches you find them in.
