Buddhist Wheel Of Life Thangkas

The Bhavacakra is known by a multitude of names, like the: wheel of becoming; wheel of existence; wheel of rebirth; wheel of samsara; wheel of suffering; and the wheel of transformation. However, its most common name is the wheel of life. This is one of the major ideologies in Tibetan Buddhism. It represents the continuous movement of the human existence: from the time of birth, to the passage of life and unto the acceptance of physiological death. It is said, that in order to have a fulfilling life, a person must achieve spiritual enlightenment through education, good deeds and the firm belief in karma; that is, before death finally claims the worldly body. Only through this particular path can a person achieve nirvana.

The wheel of life is actually a complex cycle where one person’s existence is watched over and judged in all the alternate realms of existence. The six alternate realms include the world of: the Devas (gods); the Asuras (demigods and fighting demons); the humans; the animals; Pretas (hungry ghosts); and hell.

The wheel of life thangkas are the physical representation of this ideology. Thangkas (singular form thangka) are pieces of fabrics, usually used as decorative banners. Therefore, wheel of life thangkas are banners which depict the symbolisms usually associated with the Bhavacakra. Most modern made banners are painted, but there are a few surviving embroidered pieces. Most of these banners depict Yama, the god of death, as he manipulates the wheel of life. These banners are usually very colorful and details; it also comes replete with Buddhist symbolism.

Thangkas are usually seen draped over a family altar or hung in the altars of Buddhist monasteries. Occasionally, wheel of life thangkas are carried by monks through parades on very special religious events and celebrations.

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