Turning the Wheel of Dhamma (Dhammacakkappavattana Sutta) is a central discourse in the Buddha’s teachings. It is the first full teaching that the newly Awakened One gave, and it sets out the four noble truths and the ‘Middle Way’ – the teaching structure that is the heart of his Way of realization. You can read the discourse in Connected Discourses (Samyutta Nikaya 56).
To better understand this teaching, Ajahn Sucitto reproduced and illuminated this sutta with paintings that bring to life a wide range of world-views, which this discourse sits within. In order to connect it aesthetically to the west, Ajahn Sucitto’s style consciously refers to the Celtic Christian Gospels. However, the images themselves present standard Buddhist themes such as Dependant Origination, the Six Realms of Existence and an array of celestial realms that we all have access to.
Previously published in book form as ‘The Dawn of the Dhamma’ this new publication also includes highlighted details and a commentary on the teachings and the imaginative process behind the work.
To hear the sangha chanting the Dhammacakkappavattana Sutta, please click here
The text in Pali and English of the Dhammacakkappavattana Sutta can be found on page 2 of the Chanting Book – Volume Two
For the audio file:
Readings and commentary by Ajahn Sucitto