ceremony to become a buddhistceremony to become a buddhist

[140][141], The third precept is explained as preventing profound spiritual damage to oneself others. The original Pali words of the three "I take refuge" lines, translated literally, read "I will undertake to find my home in the Buddha," and then the Dharma and Sangha. [33], In some schools of ancient Indic Buddhism, Buddhist devotees could choose to adhere to only a number of precepts, instead of the complete five. [109][10] Keown further proposes that a middle way approach to the five precepts is logically hard to defend. In such countries, the taking of the precepts has become a sort of ritual cleansing ceremony. Or else we are always finding new things to blame our problems on, such as relationships, society, what have you. [132] In Buddhist texts, this precept is considered second in importance to the first precept, because a lying person is regarded to have no shame, and therefore capable of many wrongs. [4] The five precepts are part of the right speech, action and livelihood aspects of the Noble Eightfold Path, the core teaching of Buddhism. Retrieved from https://www.learnreligions.com/taking-refuge-becoming-a-buddhist-450056. However, all the major schools offer a formal ceremony to mark the transition. [36] The act of taking a vow to keep the precepts is what makes it karmically effective: Spiro found that someone who did not violate the precepts, but did not have any intention to keep them either, was not believed to accrue any religious merit. [122] In modern times, referring to the law of supply and demand or other principles, some Theravdin Buddhists have attempted to promote vegetarianism as part of the five precepts. One of the first Tibetan Buddhist teachers to come toAmerica, he established Naropa University in Boulder, Colorado and anorganization of some 200 meditation centers worldwide known asShambhala International. [72][73] In the Pli scriptures, an example is mentioned of a person stealing an animal only to set it free, which was not seen as an offense of theft. )[46], After this, the monk administering the precepts will recite a reverential line of text to introduce the ceremony, after which he guides the lay people in declaring that they take their refuge in the three refuges or triple gem. I practice mindful consumption; I refrain from intoxicants and harmful substances that harm my mind and body, society and the environment. Borrowing without permission is sometimes included,[62][80] as well as gambling. The second precept prohibits theft and related activities such as fraud and forgery. [103], The description of the first precept can be interpreted as a prohibition of capital punishment. [24], Comparing different parts of Buddhist doctrine, the five precepts form the basis of the eight precepts, which are lay precepts stricter than the five precepts, similar to monastic precepts. First of all, the precepts are combined with a declaration of faith in the Triple Gem (the Buddha, his teaching and the monastic community). For example, the Thai Santi Asoke movement practices vegetarianism. [161] In another development in the West, some scholars working in the field of mindfulness training have proposed that the five precepts be introduced as a component in such trainings. [56] It further describes them as gifts toward oneself and others. We have allegiance to that and allegiance to this. There are hundreds and millions of choices involved in our lives-particularly in regard to our sense of discipline, our ethics, and our spiritual path. This ceremony contrasts with the Affirmation Ceremony in that the ordained lay member is formally initiated or becomes linked to the monastic order of the presiding monastic. The meaning of taking refuge in the Three Jewels is explained somewhat differently by the various schools of Buddhism. These Precepts help us avoid making mistakes that create suffering, fear and despair but instead bring understanding and compassion into our lives, and our lost and suffering world. [110] Asian studies scholar Giulio Agostini argues, however, that Buddhist commentators in India from the 4th century onward thought abortion did not break the precepts under certain circumstances. At that particular point, the energy, the power, and the blessing of basic sanity that has existed in the lineage for twenty-five hundred years, in an unbroken tradition and discipline from the time of Buddha, enters your system, and you finally become a full-fledged follower of buddhadharma. As all Buddhas refrained from alcohol until the end of their lives, so I too will refrain from alcohol until the end of my life. So do not impulsively rush into Buddhism. The whole situation is very personal. In China, the ritual, is called shu-ji (). You no longer have . Taking refuge - Buddhism for Beginners Card 1 of 15 How does someone become a Buddhist? The Pali Canon recommends one to compare oneself with others, and on the basis of that, not to hurt others. We have to work with the sense of sacredness and richness and the magical aspect of our experience. Such Buddhists make up the overwhelming majority. [8] Suicide is also seen as part of the prohibition. In the Lakvatra Stra, biological, social and hygienic reasons are given for a vegetarian diet; however, historically, a major factor in the development of a vegetarian lifestyle among Mahyna communities may have been that Mahyna monastics cultivated their own crops for food, rather than living from alms. We wind up complaining because we didnt get the deluxe toilet tissue that we used to get. )[50], The format of the ceremony for taking the precepts occurs several times in the Chinese Buddhist Canon, in slightly different forms.[51]. [47], He then continues with reciting the five precepts:[48][49]. By taking this particular vow, we end our shopping in the spiritual supermarket. If nobody shows you a path, any kind of path, youre going to be confused. Dharma is also passionlessness, which in this case means not grasping, holding on, or trying to possessit means non-aggression. The Buddha found the awakened state of mind by relating with the situations that existed around him: the confusion, chaos and insanity. [49] In field studies in some countries like Sri Lanka, villagers describe them as the core of the religion. The power of the vow comes from your own sincerity and commitment. [49][98] In some traditional communities, such as in Kandal Province in pre-war Cambodia, as well as Burma in the 1980s, it was uncommon for Buddhists to slaughter animals, to the extent that meat had to be bought from non-Buddhists. However, in some countries like China, where Buddhism was not the only religion, the precepts became an ordination ceremony to initiate laypeople into the Buddhist religion. By using our website, you agree to our Privacy Policy and our cookies usage. The refuge ceremony represents a final decision. The other is the Buddhist path, and the goal, which is Nirvana. This is especially true for the third precept. 3. The schools that would survive in later periods, however, that is Theravda and Mahyna Buddhism, were both ambiguous about this practice. [57] Moreover, the texts say that people who uphold them will be confident in any gathering of people,[15][58] will have wealth and a good reputation, and will die a peaceful death, reborn in heaven[48][58] or as a human being. [146] Untruthfulness is not only to be avoided because it harms others, but also because it goes against the Buddhist ideal of finding the truth. In Buddhism, one is not forced to take part in these ceremonies to be considered a follower. [76] A layperson who upholds the precepts is described in the texts as a "jewel among laymen". How does one become a lay Buddhist? - Buddhism Stack Exchange "Taking Refuge: Becoming a Buddhist." When Buddhism spread to different places and people, the role of the precepts began to vary. [128], In general, Buddhist traditions oppose abortion. Lastly, many conflict prevention programs make use of the precepts. Finally you become a real person, standing on your own feet. Understand this is completely possible; there is no reason at all that you cannot travel this path. [18] In ancient China, Daoshi described alcohol as the "doorway to laxity and idleness" and as a cause of suffering. InMahayana Buddhism, while "Buddha" may refer to thehistorical Buddha, calledShakyamuni Buddha, "Buddha" also refers to "Buddha-nature," the absolute, unconditioned nature of all things. Our Temple uses text alerts to notify guests and Myosenji Buddhists about our ceremonies and events. The precepts have been compared with human rights because of their universal nature, and some scholars argue they can complement the concept of human rights. [176][177] On a similar note, Cambodian human rights advocates have argued that for human rights to be fully implemented in society, the strengthening of individual morality must also be addressed. Therefore, some would say, they are not Buddhist by definition. paragraph form with links to related content that the reader might be interested giving them context He could be a scientist; she could be a religious teacher.". (I put my trust in my Original Teacher, Skyamuni-Buddha. [13], The second precept includes different ways of stealing and fraud. Language links are at the top of the page across from the title. The precepts are commitments to abstain from killing living beings, stealing, sexual misconduct, lying and intoxication. The restrictions that apply are similar to a monastic ordination, such as permission from parents. This principle states that a Buddhist monk cannot accept meat if it comes from animals especially slaughtered for him. For example, it refers to the Buddha's teachings, and also to the law ofkarma and rebirth. The Theravada teacher Bhikkhu Bodhi said. [62] In some traditions, the precept also condemns adultery with a person whose spouse agrees with the act, since the nature of the act itself is condemned. You commit yourself as a refugee to yourself, no longer thinking that some divine principle that exists in the holy law or holy scriptures is going to save you. He disciplined himself by working on his own mind, which was the source of all the chaos and confusion. So, taking refuge in the dharma as path, we develop the sense that it is worthwhile to walk on this earth. Taking the refuges will not summon supernatural spirits to come and save you. Thai and Laotian monks have been known to smoke, though monks who have received more training are less likely to smoke. [59], The precepts are normative rules, but are formulated and understood as "undertakings"[60] rather than commandments enforced by a moral authority,[61][62] according to the voluntary and gradualist standards of Buddhist ethics. It is very direct and very simple. [173] Other scholars, as well as Buddhist writers and human rights advocates, have drawn similar comparisons. Trying to achieve enlightenment by yourself and only for yourself is like trying to walk uphill during a mudslide. Like other schools, this ceremony does entail the transmission of the Three Jewels and the Five Precepts from a qualified teacher or organization to a student. progress in formal practice keeping the monastic precepts and renunciation study and skillful comprehension of Buddhist teachings and texts performing ritual practices which the monk or nun may officiate in ceremonial events exceptionless) pro-life position". Also, we offer a Growth Track to help guide you on your journey. Spreading from India to Central and Southeast Asia, China, Korea, and Japan, Buddhism has played a central role in the spiritual, cultural, and social life of Asia, and . China We no longer have to run after that person or this person. This means they preside in our hearts, in every person, and in all other species inhabiting unseen countless worlds across the universe. Furthermore, flirting with a married person may also be regarded as a violation. During (or right after) the ceremony, the initiate is given a Buddhist name. The fourth precept involves falsehood spoken or committed to by action, as well as malicious speech, harsh speech and gossip. It is violated when someone intentionally and successfully kills such a sentient being, having understood it to be sentient and using effort in the process. So becoming a refugee is acknowledging that we are homeless and groundless, and it is acknowledging that there is really no need for home, or ground. If you are one of those who are very interested in walking this path, you may one day decide to formally become a disciple of Buddha in order to formally live the path of understanding, faith, and love. [79] Anthropologist Barend Terwiel found in his fieldwork that most Thai villagers knew the precepts by heart, and many, especially the elderly, could explain the implications of the precepts following traditional interpretations. "[7], In the Diamond Sangha, jukai is "commonly practiced" though some members never undergo the ceremony because they are members of another religion which prohibits such initiations. However, it is also often used in a way similar to how some western Christians use "church." Buddhists tend to take "both sides" on the pro-lifepro-choice debate, being against the taking of life of a fetus in principle, but also believing in compassion toward mothers. Your friends in the sangha provide a continual reference point which creates a continual learning process. [4][78] Monks administer the precepts to the laypeople, which creates an additional psychological effect. Phunsap therefore does not see human rights as part of Buddhist doctrine.[178]. We believe that one should have some background in the Buddhas life, teachings, and practices in order to undertake such an important life-changing ceremony. Worship and rituals - Practices in Buddhism - BBC and related information here and tk copy link to article here and here tk copy here and here. Please try again. We choose to stick to a particular staple diet and flourish on it. [63] They are forms of restraint formulated in negative terms, but are also accompanied by virtues and positive behaviors,[12][13][25] which are cultivated through the practice of the precepts. In the St school in the United States, lay initiates take refuge in the Three Jewels (or Three Refuges--Buddha, Dharma and Sangha), the Three Pure Precepts (to do no harm, to do only good, and to do good for others) and the Five Grave Precepts--Affirm life: do not kill; Be giving: do not take what is not freely given; Honor the body: do not engage in sexual misconduct; The ordained then receives a certificate and a Buddhist name. So taking refuge in the Buddha in no way means regarding him as a god. These two types of ceremonies are different but share certain religious aspects. [4], In the Rinzai school students take refuge in the Three Jewels (or Three Refuges) and, similarly to the Chinese and Korean practices derived from India, they receive the five precepts for laypersons. [147][148] A breach of the precept is considered more serious if the falsehood is motivated by an ulterior motive[140] (rather than, for example, "a small white lie"). [127] There is some debate and controversy surrounding the problem whether a person can commit suicide, such as self-immolation, to reduce other people's suffering in the long run, such as in protest to improve a political situation in a country. By taking the refuge vow we commit ourselves to freedom. The teneleven bodhisattva precepts presuppose the five precepts, and are partly based on them. This is known as devotional practice and its purpose is to enable Buddhists to express how grateful they are to the Buddha for what he taught. So taking refuge is a landmark of becoming a Buddhist, a nontheist. [4] But the word also refers to the virtue and morality which lies at the foundation of the spiritual path to enlightenment, which is the first of the three forms of training on the path. 1. Acknowledging that the only real working basis is oneself and that there is no way around that, one takes refuge in the Buddha as an example, in the dharma as the path, and in the sangha as companionship. In Nichiren Shoshu, those determined to start their faith and practice of True Buddhism receive this ceremony from a Nichiren Shoshu priest. One of the big steps in the Buddhas development was his realization that there is no reason we should believe in or expect anything greater than the basic inspiration that exists in us already. [176] Buddhist monk and scholar Phra Payutto sees the Human Rights Declaration as an unfolding and detailing of the principles that are found in the five precepts, in which a sense of ownership is given to the individual, to make legitimate claims on one's rights. [69] Ethicist Pinit Ratanakul argues that the compassion which motivates upholding the precepts comes from an understanding that all living beings are equal and of a nature that they are 'not-self' (Pali: anatt). They are sometimes referred to as the rvakayna precepts in the Mahyna tradition, contrasting them with the bodhisattva precepts. I take refuge in the Buddha.I take refuge in the dharma.I take refuge in the sangha. [102] The concept of the fundamental Buddha nature of all human beings also underlies the first precept. It is also sometimes used to refer to ethical rules and to mental objects or thoughts. by Chgyam Trungpa Rinpoche| May 16, 2017. When we take refuge we commit ourselves to the Buddhist path. The name is not chosen by the ordained but by the conferring monastic. You no longer have to make sacrifices in somebody elses name, trying to get yourself saved or to earn redemption. Becoming a Buddhist - Buddhist Faith Fellowship of Connecticut At the same time, though, the Buddha is often shown not to explicitly oppose war in his conversations with political figures. Once a year, Bright Way Zen holds a Precepts (Jukai) ceremony, in which people receive the precepts and formally become Buddhists. Everybody is simultaneously struggling with their own discipline. Keown compares the first precept with the. We begin to see that in seeking security we cant grasp onto anything; everything continually washes out and becomes shaky, constantly, all the time. [162] Some Buddhist movements and communities have tried to go against the modern trend of less strict adherence to the precepts. [125] Medieval Pli commentator Buddhaghosa writes that whereas violating the first four precepts may be more or less blamable depending on the person or animal affected, the fifth precept is always "greatly blamable", as it hinders one from understanding the Buddha's teaching and may lead one to "madness". Nothing is regarded as just a waste of time; nothing is seen as a punishment or as a cause of resentment and complaint. We do not have to come up with any padding of politeness or ordinary cheapness, but we actually experience life. [43][160] On a similar note, as of 2000, no Buddhist country prohibited the sale or consumption of alcohol, though in Sri Lanka Buddhist revivalists unsuccessfully attempted to get a full prohibition passed in 1956. People are very confused in this chaotic world about what is really the right thing to do. Five precepts - Wikipedia Some early Mahyna texts allow it, but some do not; Theravda texts do not discuss such selective practice at all. This is usually at a ceremony and "given" by the monks however the true taking of refuge is something done in the mind, not recited or given. [137][161], In modern times, adherence to the precepts among Buddhists is less strict than it traditionally was.