Three - The Triple Gem (Tiratna)

At the beginning of a retreat, or of some other gathering such as a Dhamma talk by a monastic, participants are often asked to undergo certain formalities. For example, these might include paying homage to the Buddha, taking refuge in The Triple Gem, or pledging to observe The Five Precepts. 

Taking refuge in the Triple Gem involves reciting the following (three times):

• I seek refuge in the Buddha
• I seek refuge in the Dhamma
• I seek refuge in the Sangha

For such formalities not to become lifeless rituals, those reciting them are asked to reflect on their meaning.

Thus, when taking refuge in the Buddha, it is understood that it is not refuge in the person of the historical Buddha but rather in the qualities that he embodied. When taking refuge in the Dhamma, it is understood that it is not refuge in the written word of the teachings but rather in the truth that they contain. When taking refuge in the Sangha, it is understood that it is not refuge in the claim that "I am a Buddhist" but rather in the shared commitment to the path. As one progresses on the path, one begins to suspect that The Triple Gem may be one of the few reliable aspects of an uncertain and changing world.