Part 1 The Threefold Refuge in the Triple Gem

When we wish to become Buddhist formally, the first step is go to The Triple Gem (Three Jewels) - the Buddha, the Dharma and the Sangha for refuge. It is an expression of one's faith and determination in walking the Buddha's path. Since the time of Buddha. taking this Threefold Refuge has identified a person as a Buddhist.

Why take Refuge?

If we observe the world carefully, we will notice much pain, suffering and frustration experience by all. We will look for a way to end these distressing conditions just as a traveler caught in a storm seek shelter. If he finds shelter is strong and safe building, he will call out to the others struggling in the storm to join him in his refuge. Similarly, one chooses to become a Buddhist when he understands whom the Buddha is and how the Triple Gem can provide him the way to end suffering. Out of Compassion, he also encourages others to take the same refuge.

The Buddha, the Dharma and the Sangha are called the Triple Gem because they represent qualities excellent and precious like a gem. Once we recognize these unique qualities after careful consideration and are confident that the Triple Gem can lead us towards True Happiness and Enlightenment, we take refuge in it. Therefore, it is not out of mere faith, but with an open-minded attitude and inquiring spirit that we begin practicing the Buddha's Teaching.

BUDDHA

The Buddha's exemplary Conduct, perfect Wisdom and great Compassion make Him an excellent teacher. Using skillful means, He is able to reach out to His followers so that they can understand His Teaching.

DHARMA

We get to know about Dharma by reading the scriptures. We can also learn from the writings and explanations of qualified teachers. Once we familiarized ourselves by putting it into practice. This means purifying our conduct and cultivating Mental Development until the Teaching becomes part of our own experience.

SANGHA

Monks and Nuns are respected for their good conduct and experience in spiritual practice. They are also respected for their diligence, mindfulness and calmness. Wise and learned, they are able teachers of the Dharma, like trusted friends who inspire us along the path of practice.

Benefit of having taken Refuge

1) One becomes a Buddhist formally

2) One establishes the foundation for taking further vows

3) One can more efficiently eliminate results of previously accumulated negative karma

4) One can more quickly accumulate great positive karma

5) One will not be harmed by humans and non-humans

6) One will not fall to unfortunate rebirths

7) Generally, all virtuous purposes and temporal goals will be fulfilled

8) One will quickly attain Buddha-hood

The Five Precepts

The five precepts are recommendation given by the Buddha, proposed to be lived by one who wish to lead a peaceful life while contributing to the happiness of family ans society. The five precepts are voluntarily observed by lay Buddhists. They are not commandments that have to strictly abided by. They form the basic of universal morality in the Moral Conduct aspect of the Noble Eightfold Path, which is very important in the beginning of practicing the Buddhist path.

1) Respect for life, not to kill, to protect

2) Respect for personal property, not to steal, to be generous

3) Respect for personal relationship, not to indulge the senses (adultery), to be content

4) Respect for truth, not to lie, to be truthful

5) Respect for mental and physical Well-being, not to take intoxicants, to be mindful

Other Precepts

1) The Eight and Ten Precepts; For Lay Buddhist in Training and Retreats

2) The Bhikkhu and Bhikkhuni Precepts; For Monks and Nuns

3) Bodhisattva Precepts; Further extensions of five precepts

Where to take the Refuge?

Reception:-

Dharma Propagation General Enquiry

Tel. 6849 5300
Facsimile: 6849-5303
email: enquiry@kmspks.org

Kong Meng San
Phor Kark See Monastery
88 Bright Hill Road
Singapore 574117