Is going for refuge relevant in the modern world? Does is mean more to a convert or heritage Buddhist?

?

Is going for refuge relevant in the modern world? Does is mean more to a convert or heritage buddhist?

Advantages

  • Some say it means more to a convert Buddhist as for a lay person in a Buddhist country, it may signify a commitment to practicing the five precepts and Eightfold Path. With the guidance of the monastic Sangha. For other lay people in a Buddhist country, it may signify a commitment to being an example and a help to other lay people, and to support the Jourjoid Sangha in general - there are differences in approaching the Refuges in heritage Buddhists, which one is correct?
  • Both Heritage and Convert Buddhists are likely to see the Sangha as offering a valuable refuge in the modern world, which is orientated to Capitalist values and individualism. For example, there will be a 'going for refuge' retreat planned for women, due to take place in Tiratanaloka Budhist Retreat centre in Breacon - June 2016 - equally important to both.
  • For Buddhists, in general the Sangha is significant because it was instituted by the Buddha. It's also significant because it has presented the teachings and practices of Buddhism - equally important to both.

Disadvantages

  • Some convert Buddhists practice Buddhism alone, without a Sangha. These Buddhists are sometimes called "unaffiliated Buddhists."
  • In a convert context, the surrounding community itself may not be Buddhist. Thus, the convert has less opportunity to gain merit from offerings to monks and will have less support in practicing the dharma from the surrounding community.
  • Triratna Buddhists  (friends of the Western Buddhists  order FOTWB). E.g, many live in a community with other Sangha members despite not being ordained. There is less of a distinction here between the ordained and lay as may be found in some heritage buddhism.

Evaluation

In conclusion, the statement itself is incorrect and doesnt make much sense. There is great diversity of interpretation of going for refuge within heritage Buddhism e.g. refuge in different Buddhas according to branch of Buddhism followed.

Comments

No comments have yet been made

Similar Religious Studies resources:

See all Religious Studies resources »See all Buddhism resources »