Paying Respect to the Triple Gem

PAKISTAN

The Triple Gem symbol, also known as the triratna, is most often portrayed as a trident balanced on a Dharma wheel. The Triple Gem comprises the Buddha (the Enlightened One), the Dharma (the Teachings), and the Sangha (the Community), while the Dharma wheel stands for the Buddha’s first exposition of the Four Noble Truths, referred to as the Turning of the Dharma Wheel. The carved block was intended to decorate a lintel, a pillar, or used as part of a crossbeam.
The traditional Dharma wheel is shown here as a lotus medallion which rests on a square platform in the relief. The trident above balances eight-spoked Dharma wheels on its three curled prongs. Two kneeling monks below it join their palms in reverence. Largely defaced figures that may represent various types of devotees stand above them.