Full Meaning:

The phrase, “Buddham Sharanam Gacchami, Dharmam Sharanam Gacchami, Sangham Sharanam Gacchami,” is a sacred Buddhist refuge prayer. It expresses the practitioner’s commitment to taking refuge in the Three Jewels (Triratna) of Buddhism: the Buddha, the Dharma, and the Sangha. The phrase translates as:

  • Buddham Sharanam Gacchami: I take refuge in the Buddha (the enlightened one who shows the path to liberation).
  • Dharmam Sharanam Gacchami: I take refuge in the Dharma (the teachings of the Buddha that lead to enlightenment).
  • Sangham Sharanam Gacchami: I take refuge in the Sangha (the community of practitioners who support and guide each other on the spiritual path).

In essence, this prayer signifies the practitioner’s dedication to following the path of wisdom, compassion, and liberation under the guidance of the Three Jewels.


Significance of the Three Jewels:

  1. Buddha:
  • The Buddha represents the ultimate teacher and role model. He is the enlightened being who discovered the truth about existence and shared it with humanity. Taking refuge in the Buddha means seeking inspiration from his life, teachings, and example of awakening.
  1. Dharma:
  • The Dharma refers to the teachings of the Buddha, which provide a roadmap for living a meaningful, ethical, and enlightened life. Taking refuge in the Dharma means committing to study, practice, and embody these teachings.
  1. Sangha:
  • The Sangha is the spiritual community of monks, nuns, and lay practitioners who support each other on the path to enlightenment. Taking refuge in the Sangha means seeking guidance, companionship, and encouragement from those who share the same spiritual aspirations.

Together, the Three Jewels form the foundation of Buddhist practice, offering protection, guidance, and inspiration on the journey toward liberation from suffering.


Benefits of Reciting the Refuge Prayer:

  1. Spiritual Guidance:
  • Provides clarity and direction on the path to enlightenment by aligning the practitioner with the wisdom of the Buddha, the teachings of the Dharma, and the support of the Sangha.
  1. Protection from Negativity:
  • Acts as a shield against negative influences, harmful intentions, and distractions that hinder spiritual growth.
  1. Inner Peace and Calmness:
  • Brings emotional stability, reduces stress, and promotes inner peace through the practice of mindfulness and devotion.
  1. Cultivation of Compassion and Wisdom:
  • Inspires the development of compassion, kindness, and wisdom, which are central to Buddhist teachings.
  1. Sense of Belonging:
  • Strengthens the connection to the global Buddhist community (Sangha), fostering a sense of belonging and shared purpose.
  1. Overcoming Fear and Anxiety:
  • Removes fear, doubt, and anxiety by grounding the practitioner in the timeless truths of the Dharma and the compassionate presence of the Buddha and Sangha.
  1. Alignment with Universal Truths:
  • Connects the practitioner with universal principles such as impermanence, non-attachment, and interconnectedness.
  1. Liberation from Suffering:
  • Guides the practitioner toward the cessation of suffering (dukkha) by following the Noble Eightfold Path and practicing mindfulness.
  1. Moral and Ethical Living:
  • Encourages adherence to ethical conduct, mindfulness, and meditation as tools for personal and spiritual growth.
  1. Deepening Faith and Devotion:
    • Inspires humility, gratitude, and surrender, strengthening the bond with the Three Jewels.

How to Practice This Refuge Prayer:

  1. Daily Recitation:
  • Recite the refuge prayer three times daily, preferably during morning meditation or evening reflection, to reaffirm your commitment to the Buddhist path.
  1. With Devotion and Faith:
  • Chant with sincerity, focus, and faith, visualizing the Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha as sources of light, wisdom, and compassion guiding you on your journey.
  1. Cleanliness and Purity:
  • Sit in a quiet, clean space, preferably facing a shrine with images or statues of the Buddha, offerings, and sacred texts.
  1. Meditation:
  • Reflect on the meaning of each line while reciting the prayer. Contemplate how the Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha can support you in overcoming challenges and achieving spiritual growth.
  1. Offerings:
  • Offer flowers, incense, candles, or food as a gesture of gratitude and devotion to the Three Jewels.
  1. During Meditation Sessions:
  • Begin or end your meditation practice with the refuge prayer to ground yourself in the teachings and intentions of the Buddhist path.
  1. At Buddhist Ceremonies:
  • Recite the refuge prayer during rituals, ceremonies, or gatherings at temples or meditation centers to reaffirm your connection to the Three Jewels.
  1. Before Important Decisions:
  • Use the prayer as a tool for seeking guidance and strength before making significant life decisions or embarking on new ventures.

Why This Prayer is Special:

The refuge prayer is a foundational practice in Buddhism, marking the formal entry of a person into the Buddhist path. By reciting it with devotion, one aligns their energy with the wisdom, compassion, and support of the Three Jewels, creating a strong foundation for spiritual growth and liberation.

It is particularly beneficial for:

  • Those seeking guidance, protection, and inspiration on their spiritual journey.
  • Individuals longing for peace, wisdom, and freedom from suffering.
  • Anyone desiring to cultivate compassion, mindfulness, and ethical living.

Through regular practice, devotees can experience profound transformation, inner peace, and unwavering support from the Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha in overcoming challenges and achieving their goals.


Key Note:

The refuge prayer is not just a verbal affirmation but a heartfelt commitment to live a life guided by the principles of Buddhism. It serves as a reminder of the practitioner’s ultimate goal: liberation from suffering and the attainment of enlightenment. Regular recitation deepens one’s connection to the Three Jewels and strengthens the resolve to walk the path of wisdom and compassion.