Refuge in Buddhism

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Refuge in Buddhism refers to the act of seeking protection, guidance, and support from the Three Jewels: the Buddha, the Dharma, and the Sangha. This practice is fundamental to all Buddhist traditions and is often considered the first step on the Buddhist path.

The Three Jewels

The Three Jewels, also known as the Triple Gem, are:

• Buddha: The enlightened one who discovered the path to liberation from samsara (the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth).
• Dharma: The teachings and doctrines of the Buddha, which provide the path to enlightenment.
• Sangha: The community of Buddhist monks, nuns, and lay practitioners who follow the Dharma and support each other in their practice.

Taking Refuge

Taking refuge is a formal commitment to the Buddhist path. It is often marked by a ceremony in which a practitioner recites the Refuge formula:

"I take refuge in the Buddha. I take refuge in the Dharma. I take refuge in the Sangha."

This act signifies the practitioner's intention to follow the teachings of the Buddha, rely on the Dharma for guidance, and seek support from the Sangha.

Significance

Taking refuge is considered essential for anyone who wishes to practice Buddhism. It represents a shift in one's life towards seeking spiritual growth and liberation. By taking refuge, practitioners acknowledge their reliance on the Three Jewels and commit to living in accordance with the Five Precepts and other ethical guidelines.

Refuge in Different Traditions

While the core concept of taking refuge is consistent across all Buddhist traditions, the specific practices and rituals may vary:

• In Theravada Buddhism, taking refuge is often the first step in becoming a lay follower or monk.
• In Mahayana Buddhism, taking refuge is integrated with the Bodhisattva vow, which includes the commitment to attain enlightenment for the benefit of all sentient beings.
• In Vajrayana Buddhism, taking refuge may also involve additional commitments and practices, such as the Guru Yoga.

Related Concepts

• Precepts (Buddhism)
• Four Noble Truths
• Noble Eightfold Path
• Bodhisattva
• Enlightenment in Buddhism

See Also

• Buddhist ethics
• Buddhist meditation
• Buddhist philosophy
• Buddhist cosmology
• Buddhist monasticism