To become a Buddhist one must take refuge in the Buddha, Dhamma and Sangha for one’s guidance. All those who are already Buddhists are encouraged to reiterate the acceptance of this Holy Triple Gem – Buddha, Dhamma and Sangha – in their daily life.

The Buddha was the holiest, most virtuous, wisest and most spiritually perfect personality who had ever lived. His Dhamma (doctrine) is the Ultimate Truth about the Universe which explains the real nature of the world and of life as well. The Sangha refers to all the disciples of the Buddha who have attained sainthood. It also refers to the Holy Order of the Buddha, whose members lead the religious life and who are responsible for preserving His original teachings.

By declaring one’s willingness to be guided by the Holy Triple Gem one should not be led to think that one will thereby be mentally enslaved. Everyone must have some guidance for his spiritual development; but one must never give up one’s right to think freely, intelligently, and respectfully in response to whatever is taught in the name of religion.

Every religion has certain sacred objects of veneration in which its followers are expected to have confidence. It is the fervent acceptance of these sacred objects which awaken the religious impulse in men and which in turn inspire them to lead a religious life.

Buddham saranang gacchami
Dhammam saranang gacchami
Sangham saranang gacchami

I go to the Buddha as my refuge.
I go to the Dhamma as my refuge.
I go to the Sangha as my refuge.

Dutiyampi Buddham saranang gacchami
Dutiyampi Dhammam saranang gacchami
Dutiyampi Sangham saranang gacchami

For the second time
I go to the Buddha as my refuge.
For the second time
I go to the Dhamma as my refuge.
For the second time
I go to the Sangha as my refuge.

Tatiyampi Buddham saranang gacchami
Tatiyampi Dhammam saranang gacchami
Tatiyampi Sangham saranang gacchami

For the third time
I go to the Buddha as my refuge.
For the third time
I go to the Dhamma as my refuge.
For the third time
I go to the Sangha as my refuge.