ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ
refuge with the Three Jewels
Taking refuge with the Three Jewels is the way one becomes a Buddhist and enters the path to the ending of suffering that comes with full and proper enlightenment.

In order to take refuge correctly, one should find a fully ordained bhikshu whose daily conduct is fully in accord with the Buddha’s teaching and request him to administer the Refuges and to become one's teacher and guide on the Path.

Commentary

This Refuge is peaceful indeed.
This Refuge is best.
This Refuge, if taken, frees one
from all suffering.
(Dhammapada 14:14)

In taking refuge with the Buddha,
I vow that living beings
Will understand the great Path,
And bring forth the unsurpassed
resolve (for bodhi).

In taking refuge with the Dharma,
I vow that living beings
Will deeply enter the sutra treasury,
And have wisdom like the sea.

In taking refuge with the Sangha,
I vow that living beings
Will unite, forming a Great Assembly,
In which all will be in harmony.
(FAS Ch11 116-118)

Chinese Terms

皈依三寶

See Also: 
Three Jewels