the Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha, also known as the Triple Gem.
To take refuge in the Buddha means, not taking refuge in him as a person, but
taking refuge in the fact of his Awakening: placing trust in the belief that he did
awaken to the truth, that he did so by developing qualities that we too can
develop, and that the truths to which he awoke provide the best perspective for
the conduct of our life.
The Dharma, on the external level, refers to the path of practice the Buddha
taught to his followers: The words of his teachings, the act of putting those
teachings into practice, and the attainment of Awakening as the result of that
practice.
The Sangha consists of all people, lay or ordained, who have practiced the
Dharma to the point of gaining at least a glimpse of the Deathless. - From
Commentary by Thanissaro Bhikkhu
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I take refuge in the Buddha, the one who shows me the way in this life.
I take refuge in the Dharma, the way of understanding and of love.
I take refuge in the Sangha, the community that lives in harmony and
awareness.
(Bell)
Dwelling in the refuge of the Buddha,
I clearly see the path of light and beauty in this world.
Dwelling in the refuge of the Dharma, I learn to open many doors on the path of
transformation.
Dwelling in the refuge of the Sangha, shining light that supports me, keeping my
practice free of obstruction.
(Bell)
Taking refuge in the Buddha in myself, I aspire to help all people recognize their
own awakened nature, realizing the mind of love.
Taking refuge in the Dharma in myself, I aspire to help all people fully master the
ways of practice and walk together on the path of liberation.
Taking refuge in the Sangha in myself, I aspire to help all people build a
community that embraces all beings and supports their transformation.
(Two Bells)
- Adapted by Thich Nhat Hanh