The Paṭicca-samuppāda wheel diagram, crafted by Ven. Mogok Sayadawgyi U Vimala, features two prominent circles that form the foundational geometry of this visual teaching aid, cross-marked by four blue radial pillars (supports). These circles encapsulate the cycle of suffering and the potential for its cessation, enriched with similes to guide yogis in vipassanā meditation.
- Outer Big Circle = Binding/Chain (Jarā-maraṇa Simile): The outermost ring, often referred to as the 9th layer, represents the binding chain that encircles the entire wheel, symbolizing the inescapable cycle of saṃsāra. This circle is likened to jarā-maraṇa (aging and death), the final nidāna (link) that binds all previous conditions—birth, becoming, and craving—into a continuous loop of suffering (dukkha). Visually, it serves as the rim of the wheel, reinforced by four red turning arrows that depict the relentless rotation of the cycle. The chain’s role is to hold the inner processes in perpetual motion unless broken by insight, making it a focal point for contemplating the cessation of aging and death through the Noble Path.
- Inner Small Circle = Container/Vessel for the Two Roots (Avijjā, Taṇhā): At the wheel’s center lies a small circle, the container/vessel, which houses the "two roots"—avijjā (ignorance) and taṇhā (craving). This inner hub is the origin point of the cycle, where the mind’s delusions and thirst begin, driving the entire process of Dependent Origination. It is cross-marked by the four blue pillars, symbolizing the stability of saṅkhāra (formations) that both support and perpetuate the cycle. The vessel is depicted with red ovals or text highlighting avijjā and taṇhā, serving as the axle box that holds the fermenting taints (āsavas), making it the critical area for yogis to focus their meditation to uproot ignorance and craving.
- Upper Downward Arrow = Axis (Āsavas): Extending downward from the top of the central vessel is the upper downward arrow, representing the axis of the wheel. This arrow symbolizes the āsavas (mental fermentations or taints—sensual desire, becoming, ignorance, and views), which act as the rotational force that keeps the wheel of saṃsāra spinning. It connects the two roots (avijjā and taṇhā) to the outer chain, illustrating how these defilements propel the cycle from its core. When presenting, point to this arrow and explain its role as the "engine" of suffering, urging meditators to observe and dismantle these taints through insight.
- Middle Downward Arrow = Exit Path: Positioned centrally between the upper arrow and the outer layers, the middle downward arrow signifies the exit path from the cycle, representing the cessation (nirodha) aspect of Paṭicca-samuppāda. This arrow points toward liberation (nibbāna) by illustrating the reverse process—when ignorance (avijjā) ceases, formations (saṅkhāra) cease, and so on, culminating in the end of suffering. It aligns with the Noble Eightfold Path, particularly vedanānupassanā (contemplation of feelings) to break the Vedanā-Taṇhā link. Point to this arrow and emphasize its role as the "path out," encouraging yogis to trace it during meditation to cultivate insight.
How to Point and Talk
When presenting this section (e.g., in a Dhamma talk or meditation workshop), use a pointer or finger to guide the audience through the two circles and arrows, integrating the similes for clarity:
- Outer Circle (Binding/Chain): "Look at the outer big circle [trace the rim with your finger]. This is the binding chain, like jarā-maraṇa—aging and death—that traps us in saṃsāra. Notice the four red arrows turning here [point to each], showing the wheel’s endless spin. This is where suffering loops back unless we break it."
- Inner Circle (Container/Vessel): "Now, focus on the small circle at the center [tap the hub]. This is the container/vessel, holding the two roots—avijjā and taṇhā [point to red ovals or text]. It’s like an axle box filled with fermenting taints, the starting point of all cycles."
- Upper Downward Arrow (Axis): "See this upper arrow pointing down from the top [trace it]. It’s the axis, driven by āsavas—the taints that keep the wheel turning. Imagine it as the engine of your suffering [pause], fueled by ignorance and craving."
- Middle Downward Arrow (Exit Path): "Here’s the middle arrow [point downward from center]. This is the exit path, the way out through cessation. When you stop ignorance, the cycle stops—follow this path in meditation to reach nibbāna [trace slowly]."
Tips: Use a physical diagram or projector; pause after each point for reflection (e.g., 15-20 seconds). Relate similes to personal experience (e.g., "Think of your own aging as the chain"), aligning with Mogok’s experiential focus. This approach enhances visual and kinesthetic learning, key to his VAKT method.
