Three Jewels/Refuges

Question 1

1) Buddha

Answer 1

We take refuge in the Buddha as a teacher, having some faith in his teaching and the integrity of his life. He is not seen as divine but as the great exemplar. The Buddha refuge also includes those who are our teachers and who exemplify the teaching for us. Because our true nature is Buddha Nature, we need also to respect our own existence as Buddha. That means having faith and trust in oneself. One is far more likely to act well, if one has such self-respect.

Question 2

2) Dharma

Answer 2

Refuge in the Dharma is to be open to the Buddha’s teaching in the sūtras and the teaching we receive through our experience of life—for all things teach when we have an open heart.

Question 3

3) Sangha

Answer 3

Take refuge in the Sangha is to recognize the natural authority of those who have been in training longer than we have, or whose understanding is deeper than our own, and to seek advice and counsel from them.