Taking Refuge

Taking Refuge (Tib. skyabs 'gro) is the foundation of, and entrance to, all buddhist practice. It marks the distinction between buddhist and non-buddhist.

The Objects of Refuge

• The outer objects of refuge are the Three Jewels: Buddha, Dharma and Sangha. We take refuge in the Buddha as our guide, the Dharma as the path and the sangha as our companions.
• The inner objects of refuge are the Three Roots: Lama, Yidam and Dakini.
• The secret object of refuge is the bodhichitta, the indestructible natural state which we realize through the special sublime method of the channels, inner air and essences.
• The ultimate objects of refuge, according to Dzogchen, are the three kayas within the nature of our own minds: the essence, nature and compassionate energy.