The Buddhist symbol representing the Buddha’s teaching as a wheel is the dharmachakra.
Dharmachakra is a Sanskrit term usually translated as the “Wheel of Dharma.” The wheel symbolizes the Buddha’s teaching, its spread, and the transformation produced by putting that teaching into practice. Turning the wheel is a traditional metaphor for teaching the Dharma.
The wheel is often shown with eight spokes, linking it to the Noble Eightfold Path. However, dharmachakra designs can have different numbers of spokes and styles depending on the Buddhist culture and context. It is used in Buddhist art, architecture, flags, seals, and ceremonial objects.
The symbol should not be confused with the triratna, or Three Jewels, which represents the Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha. In Indian history, the wheel also had royal associations, so its Buddhist meaning draws on both religious and political symbolism.