Triratna of Buddhism
Also called: Three jewels, Triratna · Topic: Buddhism, Jainism and Heterodox Traditions · NCERT: Beyond NCERT
Meaning
The Triratna, or "Three Jewels", are the three things every Buddhist takes refuge in. They are the Buddha (the enlightened teacher), the Dhamma (his teaching of righteous living) and the Sangha (the community of monks and nuns). Saying "I take refuge in the Buddha, the Dhamma and the Sangha" is the basic act of becoming a Buddhist. The idea shows that the Buddha, his teaching and the community that keeps it alive are all equally important.
Example
Buddhist lay followers and new monks across Asia recite the three refuges, often together with the five precepts, when they join the faith or attend ceremonies at monasteries.
Don't confuse with
- Jaina Triratna: in Jainism, the three jewels are right faith, right knowledge and right conduct, which together lead to liberation. They are a path to follow, not three things to take refuge in.