The Buddha Śākyamuni gave teachings on three different levels, referred to as the three turnings of the Dharma wheel. On the first occasion at Sarnath, he expounded the doctrine of the four noble truths. Later, at Vulture Peak, he set forth the doctrine of emptiness subsequently recorded in the Prajñāpāramitā sutras. Finally, on various occasions, he gave teachings on the Tathagatagarbha, the buddha nature, such as are recorded in the Sandhinirmochana and other sutras. [TPQ, 2010]

The symbol of the Buddha's teachings. See also Three turnings of the Dharma wheel. [TPQ, 2010]

The symbol of the Buddha’s teaching. To turn the wheel of the Dharma means to teach the Dharma. During his lifetime, the Buddha gave three major series of teachings, which are referred to as the first, second, and third turnings.[TLWF, 2011][NS]

The symbol of the Buddha's teaching. The Dharma is divided into three broad categories, traditionally known as the Three Turnings of the Wheel of the Dharma. The First Turning of the Wheel corresponds to the Buddha's first teachings on the Four Noble Truths of suffering and the release from suffering. The Second Turning consists of teachings on emptiness: the doctrine that all phenomena are devoid of self-entity and true existence. The Third Turning comprises teachings on the Tathagatagarbha, or Buddhanature inherent in the minds of all sentient beings. [TEPTE, 1996]

lit. channel-wheel of reality. See chakra. [WL, 2012]