Refuge (Buddhism)
Buddhists "take refuge" in, or to "go for refuge" to, the Three Jewels (aka the "Three Refuges"). This can be done formally in lay and monastic ordination ceremonies.
The Three Jewels general signification is:
- the Buddha;
- the Dharma, the teachings;
- the Sangha, the community of (at least partially) enlightened beings, often approximated to community of monks and nuns (Bhikkhus and Bhikkhunis).
In Vajrayana, practitioners (sadhakas) can visualize the refuge tree, and to aid this interior viewing, the refuge tree is typically depicted on scroll paintings (thangka) or murals.
Read more about Refuge (Buddhism): History, Faith (saddha), Vows, Wording, Levels, The Dhammapada
Famous quotes containing the word refuge:
“These studies which stimulate the young, divert the old, are an ornament in prosperity and a refuge and comfort in adversity; they delight us at home, are no impediment in public life, keep us company at night, in our travels, and whenever we retire to the country.”
—Marcus Tullius Cicero (106–43 B.C.)