What are Buddhist Beliefs?

Being a Buddhist means finding refuge in the Three Jewels – Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha — as the true and reliable protection from suffering. Going for refuge is the foundation of the Buddhist path and the essential step that marks the beginning of someone’s life as a Buddhist.

Going for refuge means developing heartfelt trust in Buddha as our guide and perfect example, in
Dharma (Buddha’s teachings and our own inner experience of them) as the actual protection from suffering and in Sangha (the spiritual community) as our companions and support on the path.

In the NKT, we train in this inner refuge by learning to turn inward for solutions to our problems, relying on the wisdom and methods taught by Buddha to transform our mind. We gradually let go of external objects or conditions as our main source of happiness or protection, and instead turn to Dharma practice to find real peace and freedom.

For those who wish to formally become Buddhist, there is the opportunity to take the Refuge Vow— a beautiful and meaningful ceremony in which one makes a conscious decision to rely on the Three Jewels and commit to living in accordance with Buddhist principles. This vow marks the beginning of a new life, one based on spiritual practice, ethical conduct, and the intention to progress toward liberation and enlightenment for the benefit of all beings.