Wheel of time in Hinduism is known as Kalachakra and it is a
representation of the dynamic and eternal cycle of time in Indian tradition. The
sun, as the eternal source of light, remains in the center of the wheel of
time.
Wheel Of Time In Hindu Scriptures
On the sun’s axle is fixed a wheel of three naves, fives
spokes and six peripheries, related to time (samvatsaramaye krtisnam
kalachakram pratishtitham – Vishnu Purana VII.4). Again in Yoga Vasistha
(III.16.43) : kshana nabhau spandamaye kalachakre vahati.
The subdivisions of eternal time, from nimesha (the minutest
moment) like a wheel and this constant or perpetual revolution is called
Kalahakra (Sushruta Samhita, Sutra Sthana VI.8).
Being a form of divine power, wheel of time is depicted as
typically four headed or with 24 hands representing 24 hours.
Kala Chakra In Yoga
As an esoteric system of yoga sadhana, wheel of time helps
to control the span of life. A yogi can unite the sun and the moon in his physical
body by means of practicing kalachakra.
It recommends mahamudra yoga as focal
point in practice. It means for the good of sentient beings. In it, time acts
as the nature of a synthesis of phenomenal action and emptiness, symbolizing
chakra, a great bliss; kala weaves out the skandhas and dhatus in the body as
formless. The body is like a wheel, where different chakras remain in different
positions, as a symbol of all the knowable world.
Kalachakra is the temporal
cycle of existence where consciousness returns to its source. Whether cosmic or
individual, two halves of this cycle are represented by utpattikrama
(evolution) and utpannakrama (involution). So in Yoga practice, of which the
purpose involutionary, contemplation on time is found necessary. The names of
ten energies in kalachakra system are similar to the ten kinds of vayu – prana,
apana, samana, udana, vyana, naga, kurma, krikala, devadatta, and dhanajaya.
Four bindus or points related to energy are jagrata, svapna, sushupti, and
turiya.