Taking refuge

Taking refuge, or going for refuge (saraṇa-gamana), is the basic act of commitment in Buddhism. A person goes for refuge to the Three Jewels: the Buddha, the Dharma and the Sangha. In almost every tradition, this is what it means to become a Buddhist.

The Three Jewels

• The Buddha: the awakened teacher, and the human potential for awakening that he showed.
• The Dharma (Pali Dhamma): the teaching, and the truth it points to.
• The Sangha: the community of practitioners. In the narrow sense it means those who have reached the stages of awakening, or the community of monks and nuns; in a wider sense many people today include all who practise.

They are called jewels because they are rare and precious, and because they bring real value to a person’s life.

Why “refuge”?

A refuge is a place of safety. In the Buddhist sense, it is not a hiding place from the world but a reliable direction in it. The Buddha shows that awakening is possible, the Dharma shows the way, and the Sangha offers example and support. Taking refuge means trusting these as guides, rather than relying only on wealth, status or the approval of others.

The refuge formula

The traditional words are recited three times, in Pali or a local language:

I go for refuge to the Buddha. I go for refuge to the Dhamma. I go for refuge to the Sangha.

The recitation is usually preceded by a line of homage to the Buddha and is often followed by the five precepts. Many Buddhists recite the refuges daily, at home or in the temple, as a way of renewing their commitment. In one sutta the Buddha describes going for refuge as the first of several streams of merit.

Refuge in different traditions

All traditions share the three refuges, though they emphasise different aspects. In Tibetan Buddhism, refuge is often extended to include the teacher and other sources of guidance. In Mahayana traditions it is commonly joined with the aspiration to awaken for the benefit of all beings. Many traditions hold a formal refuge ceremony with a monk, nun or teacher, while others see refuge mainly as an inward commitment.

Taking the first step

Taking refuge does not require giving up one’s family, culture or questions. Many people recite the refuges privately for some time before taking them formally. It is a step that can deepen gradually as understanding and trust grow.