Refuge Level Study Materials

Refuge Level – Daily Practice

Within Buddhism, the path to happiness and awakening is cultivated through the Buddhist Threefold Path, The development of higher understanding, higher virtue, and higher awareness.

The Threefold Path

• The development of higher understanding – The wisdom aspect of the path, pertaining to the cultivation of insight and understanding of the Four Noble Truths and the true nature of ourselves and reality.
• The development of higher virtue – The ethical aspect of the path, pertaining to the cultivation of awakened behavior; through holding vows, cultivating basic goodness, and cultivating our benevolent qualities.
• The development of higher awareness – The practice aspect of the path, pertaining to the cultivation of higher mental and meditative states of awareness.

Note: The term ‘higher’ expresses that we are striving towards the peak levels of these aspects. Far beyond their everyday typical understanding.

The Threefold Path, often referred to as the three higher trainings, is symbolized by a triangle which signifies the crucial interrelationship of these three aspects. These three aspects are cultivated together, holistically; for each supports and encourages the others. Cultivating and maintaining a proper balance of the Threefold Path is central in all Buddhist schools.

Refuge Level – Daily Study, Practice, and Training

• To study, practice, and uphold one’s refuge vows, precepts, and commitments.
• To cultivate and realize The Four Noble Truths – through study, contemplation, and meditation; and the practices of: The Eightfold Path, The Four Tasks, Abiding on the Breath, and the practice of Shining.