Describe symbolism in Kim by Rudyard Kipling

The lama carries with him an intricately drawn chart mapping of the Wheel of Lifea symbolic representation of the cycle of life that, according to Buddhist teaching, all souls strive to escape from in order to be reunited with the Great Soul.

Kipling uses the theme of initiation in developing Kim's growth, for Kim is gradually introduced to various forces in his world in order to grow into a mature human being. Kipling uses the Buddhist symbol of the wheel to develop this theme. Kim's life turns like the wheel through the various experiences and phases of life.