The Triple Gem in Buddhism In Buddhism, practitioners take refuge in the Triple Gem—also called the Three Jewels—as the foundation of faith and practice. These three are: The Buddha (Sanskrit: Buddha; Pāli: Buddha) The Buddha is the awakened one—most commonly referring to Siddhārtha Gautama (Pāli: Siddhattha Gotama), the historical Buddha who lived over 2,500 years ago in ancient India. He is not regarded as a god, but as a fully enlightened human being who realised the ultimate truth about life: the nature of suffering (duḥkha/dukkha), its origin, and the path to its cessation. Refuge in the Buddha means trusting that awakening is possible—and that the Buddha's life serves as a model and inspiration for our own spiritual journey. The Dharma (Sanskrit: Dharma; Pāli: Dhamma) The Dharma (Pāli: Dhamma) refers to the teachings of the Buddha—truths and principles that reveal the nature of existence and guide us toward liberation. But Dharma is not just doctrine—it is also the living truth, the way things are. Practising the Dharma helps us reduce greed, hatred, and delusion and cultivate wisdom, compassion, and peace. The Saṅgha (Sanskrit & Pāli: Saṅgha) The Saṅgha refers to the community of practitioners. Originally, it meant the monastic community—bhikṣus and bhikṣuṇīs (Pāli: bhikkhus and bhikkhunīs)—who preserved and transmitted the teachings. In modern usage, it can also mean the broader community of lay and ordained individuals who sincerely practise the path. Refuge in the Saṅgha means drawing strength and guidance from those who walk the path of awakening together. The Saṅgha supports us through teachings, examples, and companionship. Taking refuge in these three is not a mere ritual but a deep personal commitment to walk the path of awakening. Thogu's Triple Gem in this life time