Taking Refuge

• What does taking refuge refer to in Buddhism?


  It refers to mentally finding shelter and assistance for a Buddhist in their path of cultivation of virtue.
• What are the three refuges/jewels in Buddhism?

  • The Buddha
  • The Dharma
  • The Sangha
• What does taking refuge in the Buddha jewel involve?


  It involves a return from avidya (ignorance) to reliance on an awakened and understanding mind.
• Who was the sixth patriarch of Zen?

  Master Huineng
• How did Huineng describe the three refuges?


  He described them as awakening, proper understanding, and purity.
• What concern did Huineng have regarding the understanding of the refuges/jewels?


  He was concerned that people would misunderstand the refuges/jewels for things external to themselves.
• What is the true meaning of taking refuge according to Huineng?

  The true meaning is to find these things within yourself.
• In what do you take refuge according to the Buddha jewel?


  You take refuge in your own Buddha-nature.
• What does taking refuge in the Dharma jewel involve?


  It involves a return from incorrect views to proper views and understanding of life and reality.
• What is the Dharma jewel also called?

  Prajna wisdom
• What does the Dharma jewel correct?


  It corrects our inaccurate beliefs, speech, and behavior.
• Why can't we immediately recover our innate Prajna wisdom?


  Because we need guidance from teachings such as the Sutras.
• What must happen if our perception of good or bad deviates from the teachings of the Buddha?


  Our thinking must be affected by avidya (ignorance).
• What is the role of the Sutras in relation to the Dharma jewel?


  • They function as guidance.
  • They help align our thinking with the Dharma.
• What does taking refuge in the Sangha jewel involve?


  It involves seeking support and guidance from the community of practitioners.