五輪

The five wheels, or things that turn:

I.

The 五體 or five members, i. e. the knees, the elbows, and the head; when all are placed on the ground it implies the utmost respect.

II.

The five foundations of the world. first and lowest the wheel or circle of space; above are those of wind; of water; the diamond, or earth; on these rest the nine concentric circles and eight seas.

III.

The esoteric sect uses the term for the 五大 five elements, earth, water, fire, wind, and space; also for the 五解脫輪 q. v. IV. The five fingers (of a Buddha).