In short: a taking refuge ceremony is a formal commitment to the Buddha, the Dhamma and the Sangha, usually taken before a monk, nun or teacher and followed by the five precepts. The Pali words are "Buddhaṃ saraṇaṃ gacchāmi, Dhammaṃ saraṇaṃ gacchāmi, Saṅghaṃ saraṇaṃ gacchāmi", repeated three times. It is a personal choice, not a requirement for practice.
What happens
- You kneel or sit before the monk or teacher with palms together.
- You repeat the three refuges, often three times. See Pali pronunciation.
- You undertake the five precepts.
- The teacher may give a short talk or a blessing.
Prepare
- Practise for a while first: practise at home.
- Choose a teacher or temple you trust: how to find a teacher.
- Ask what to wear and bring: temple etiquette.
Related: the three refuges · five precepts · how to become a Buddhist · find a temple
Questions people ask
What is taking refuge?
A formal commitment to the Buddha, the Dhamma and the Sangha as your guides, usually taken before a monk, nun or teacher, and often followed by the five precepts.
Do I need to take refuge to practise Buddhism?
No. You can meditate and follow the precepts without a ceremony. Taking refuge is a personal commitment, not a requirement.
What do you say in a refuge ceremony?
In Pali: Buddhaṃ saraṇaṃ gacchāmi, Dhammaṃ saraṇaṃ gacchāmi, Saṅghaṃ saraṇaṃ gacchāmi: I go to the Buddha, the Dhamma and the Sangha for refuge.