If one is not born into a Buddhist family setting, or spent much time rejecting Buddhism before accepting it, one generally reaches a point where one stops being a non Buddhist and becomes a Buddhist. This stage is often marked by taking refuge. Some schools recognize this as officially becoming a Buddhist, whilst others recognize it as actual practice and study, as opposed to mere acceptance and temple worship rituals.
In Tibet, the chant to offer is written as:
sangye chudang tsokyi choknam la
jangchub bardu dakni kyabsu chi
dakki jinsok gyipay sunam kyi
drola penchir sangye druppar shok
(taken from lesson provided for free download by A.C.I. - http://www.acidharma.org/aci/index.html)
In English this translates into:
I got for refuge to the Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha until I achieve enlightenment. By the power of the goodness that I do in giving and the rest, may I reach Buddhahood for the sake of every living being.
‘Taking Refuge’ is usually the first step for a Westerner, symbolizing that they are now concerned with Buddhism and practicing it!
For me, this is very important. I stopped being a 'reader with interest' and became a 'Buddhist' when learning this Tibetan chant. I realized that what it meant was valid for me, so really mean it when I say it.
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