The Three Refuges and Eight Precepts. . .

I have had some requests about formal Buddhist teachings, ceremonies and other traditions. So I thought shedding a little light of some of these may be of interest. This is one example of the formal ceremony for requesting The Three Refuges and Eight Precepts, as is done every Uposatha observance.  A representative of the gathered community will make the request of the ceremony leader who may be monastic or a community leader.  The leader then will guide the community through the ceremony via call and response.

The Three Refuges and Eight Precepts

I take refuge in Buddha.

I take refuge in Dhamma.

I take refuge in Sangha.

A second time, I take refuge in Buddha.

A second time, I take refuge in Dhamma.

A second time, I take refuge in Sangha.

A third time, I take refuge in Buddha.

A third time, I take refuge in Dhamma.

A third time, I take refuge in Sangha.

I undertake the precept of not killing.

I undertake the precept of not stealing.

I undertake the precept of not engaging in sexual activity.

I undertake the precept of not telling lies.

I undertake the precept of not using intoxicants.

I undertake the precept of not eating at inappropriate times.I undertake the precept of refraining from dance, song, music, entertainment, jewelry, fragrances, cosmetics, adornments, and self-beautification.

I undertake the precept of not using high or large beds.

I undertake these eight precepts.