Buddhist Art Lesson 3. The Bhava Charkra Part 2: The Nidanas

In this continuation of the study of the Buddhist Wheel of Life we focus on the 12 Nidanas or12 links of dependent origination. This is a complex idea in Buddhism and so the aim here is for students to focus on the metaphor of this links as chains that can trap us on the wheel of life. We make the metaphor more real by making chains out of card and labelling each one with a picture and description of each nidana. It is also a lesson in non-attachment as after all their hard work you encourage them to break the chains that they have just made. However, if you keep them they also make wonderful classroom displays; you can drape them around a picture of the Bhava Chakra.
The resources include a Powerpoint with teacher notes, an information sheet and two versions of the labels to attach to the chains.