Significance of Three Refuges
The Three Refuges in Buddhism, also known as the Triple Gems, comprise the Buddha, the Dharma, and the Sangha. These foundational elements serve as a source of guidance and protection for practitioners seeking spiritual liberation and support. Across different Buddhist traditions, including South Asia, Tibetan Buddhism, Mahayana, and Theravada, the Three Refuges are recognized as essential principles that guide followers in their journey to enlightenment. Taking refuge in these three aspects signifies a commitment to the core beliefs of Buddhism and represents a vital practice for devotees.
Synonyms: Three jewels, Three treasures, Three gems, Threefold refuge, Triple gem
In Dutch: Drie toevluchtsoorden
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Three Refuges'
The Three Refuges in Buddhism represent the foundational principles of taking refuge in the Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha, serving as essential guides and sources of protection for practitioners in their spiritual journey.
From: Maha Buddhavamsa—The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) The foundational aspects of Buddhism that Uttara embraced after making offerings to the Buddha.[1] (2) The teachings that guide individuals to seek refuge in the Buddha, Dhamma, and Sangha.[2] (3) The Three Refuges signify the Buddha, Dhamma, and Sangha, into which some followers were established.[3] (4) The guiding principles in Buddhism consisting of the Buddha, Dhamma, and Sangha, emphasized by the Buddha to his followers.[4] (5) The foundational elements in which a candidate for bhikkhuhood is established, traditionally before admission.[5]
From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) A foundational principle in Buddhism representing the Buddha, the Dharma (teachings), and the Sangha (community).[6] (2) A set of fundamental principles in Buddhism that provide shelter to true believers, as exemplified by the barber.[7] (3) A fundamental principle in Buddhism, referring to the Buddha, the Dharma, and the Sangha, through which followers seek guidance and safety.[8] (4) Refers to the fundamental aspects of Buddhism that involve taking refuge in the Buddha, the Dhamma (teachings), and the Sangha (community of monks).[9] (5) The Buddha, the Doctrine, and the Order that disciples seek refuge in, which are emphasized for their virtues and protection from suffering.[10]
From: Mahavamsa
(1) The foundational Buddhist teachings that the naga-king accepted, marking his conversion.[11] (2) A reference to the foundational elements of faith in Buddhism, indicating the spiritual values held by the king and its implications in warfare.[12] (3) The principles of refuge in Buddhism that the king and his men embraced at the end of the thera's discourse.[13] (4) The refuge taken by followers of Buddhism in the Buddha, his doctrine, and his community.[14]
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) The core elements of Buddhist practice which include refuge in the Buddha, Dhamma, and Sangha.[15] (2) The foundational principles in Buddhism, which include taking refuge in the Buddha, the Dharma, and the Sangha.[16] (3) A fundamental commitment in Buddhist practice that signifies taking refuge in the Buddha, the Dharma, and the Sangha.[17]
From: Guide to Tipitaka
(1) A concept where novices express faith in the Three Gems: the Buddha, the Dhamma, and the Samgha through a conscious recitation.[18]
From: Abhidhamma in Daily Life (by Ashin Janakabhivamsa)
(1) Another term for the Triple Gems that represents the core beliefs of Buddhism.[19]
From: Vinaya Pitaka (1): Bhikkhu-vibhanga (the analysis of Monks’ rules)
(1) The Buddhist take of seeking guidance and protection through the Buddha, the Dhamma, and the Sangha.[20]
From: Mahayana Mahaparinirvana Sutra
(1) The Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha, which practitioners take refuge in for spiritual guidance and support.[21] (2) The vow of taking refuge in the Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha, representing the foundation of Buddhist practice.[22]
From: The Six Yogas of Naropa
(1) The Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha, regarded as ultimate sources of protection and guidance in Buddhist practices.[23] (2) The foundational prayer in Buddhism, where practitioners take refuge in the Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha.[24]
From: Apadana commentary (Atthakatha)
(1) The foundational principles of Buddhism that Tisaranagamaniya sought for spiritual liberation from suffering.[25]
The concept of Three Refuges in local and regional sources
Three Refuges encompasses the core tenets of Buddhism, symbolizing an individual's commitment to Buddha, Dhamma, and Sangha, marking their entry into the faith and forming a foundational aspect of Buddhist practice and belief.
From: Buddhist Ceremonies and Rituals of Sri Lanka
(1) The foundation of Buddhist belief, which involves taking refuge in the Buddha, Dhamma, and Sangha as part of the ordination process.[26] (2) A traditional Buddhist practice where participants take refuge in the Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha, typically administered by a senior monk.[27] (3) The formula recited by a convert to express confidence in the Buddha, Dhamma, and Sangha, marking one's entry into Buddhism.[28]
From: Buddhist records of the Western world (Xuanzang)
(1) The core tenets or principles of Buddhism that the Arhat delivered to the people to guide them.[29]