A Discourse on the Wheel of Dhamma

Abstract

The Dhammacakkappavattana Sutta, commonly known as the Discourse on the Wheel of Dhamma, is considered the first sermon delivered by the Buddha following his enlightenment. Presented at the Deer Park in Isipatana to his five former ascetic companions, this seminal discourse introduces the foundational teachings of Buddhism, including the Four Noble Truths and the Noble Eightfold Path. The discourse emphasizes the Middle Way, advocating a balanced path between self-indulgence and self-mortification. By setting the Wheel of Dhamma in motion, the Buddha established a transformative framework for overcoming suffering (Dukkha) through understanding its cause (Samudaya), realizing its cessation (Nirodha), and practicing the path (Magga) leading to enlightenment. The sermon’s profound influence marked the beginning of the Buddha’s teaching mission and the establishment of the Buddhist community, guiding practitioners toward liberation and the cessation of the cycle of birth and death (Samsara).