Why Take Refuge: The Three Refuges and the Five Mindfulness Trainings

Traditionally, students wishing to formally enter the Buddhist path take refuge and receive transmission of the five Buddhist precepts. Taking refuge means to take refuge in the Three Jewels: the Buddha, the Dharma and the Sangha. By taking refuge we express our trust in our own capacity to awaken, in the path of practice and mindful living, and in the sangha community to provide a refuge of safety, guidance, and support. The five Buddhist precepts, updated by Thich Nhat Hanh as “The Five Mindfulness Trainings,” provide the basis for living in ways that create happiness and relieve suffering for ourselves and for others. In this talk Dharma teacher Fred Eppsteiner explains the essence of the Three Refuges and Five Mindfulness Trainings, and how they can contribute to deep transformation in our lives.