The 2nd Three-Jewel Refuge Ceremony in 2024

Good men and believing women over the country returned to Hoang Phap pagoda to attend the 2nd Three-Jewel Refuge Ceremony on July 28th, 2024 (June 23rd, Year of the Dragon).

Taking refuge in the Three Jewels is extremely important, marking the time a person officially becomes a Buddhist. From now, all attendees have entered a Dharma house, getting a good spiritual path for their life. Therefore, the Refuge Ceremony was held very seriously and took place all day.

After registering in the morning, participants came to the lecture halls to learn the right demeanor when coming to the pagoda, such as the manner of clasping their hands, greeting, prostrating, etc, .... these are very necessary and important rules, because not everyone also has conditions to learn these rules. Next, Junior Thich Tam Truong explained thoroughly the purpose, meaning of Three Refuge and Five precepts, the necessary knowledge to become a Buddhist.

In the afternoon, the ceremony officially took place under the witness of all Sangha at the pagoda.  From beginningless eons, drifting in six realms, covered by ignorance, no one avoids making mistakes and sinful things; therefore, each of us should recognize our mistakes and vow not to repeat them. On this occasion, the Master created conditions for the disciples to repent and help purify three karmas before entering the sacred moment, officially becoming a Buddhist. On behalf of pagoda monks, Most Thich Chan Tinh transferred Three refuge and Five Precepts for all attendees. Next, he had some instruction, and encouragement words to new Buddhists.

The Venerable analyzed very clearly the benefits of those who take refuge in Three Jewels and keep five precepts that the Buddha taught. Buddhists must have the right faith and should not be superstitious. No god or saint bestows blessings or misfortunes on anyone. Blessings or misfortunes are due to each person's cause and effect. We sow the cause and reap the fruit ourselves. From there, we have a more correct view, control ourselves, and avoid sinful things. Buddhists need to deeply believe in cause and effect. At the same time, each person should try to arrange time to go to the temple on Buddhist holidays, days of practice, repentance, listening to the Dharma, practicing vegetarianism, complying with precepts, and practicing the Buddha's teachings to have peace and happiness.

The ceremony ended in joy for everyone. Before leaving the temple, Buddhists were given books composed by Most Thich Chan Tinh, such as: A brief Introduction of Hoang Phap monastery, Summary of the story of Shakyamuni Buddha, Lessons for Buddhists, Buddha Dharma Saving My Destiny, Three Refuge-Five Precepts, Message words, Living a noble life.

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