ratansa

Ratanas is a term derived from Sanskrit, meaning "jewels" or "precious things." In Buddhist contexts, it specifically refers to the Three Jewels, also known as the Triple Gem or Triratna. These are the Buddha, the Dharma, and the Sangha. Taking refuge in the Three Jewels is a fundamental act of becoming a Buddhist.

The Buddha refers to the historical Buddha, Siddhartha Gautama, and his awakened nature. It signifies the ultimate reality of enlightenment and the potential for all beings to achieve it. The Dharma is the teachings of the Buddha, encompassing the truths about existence, the path to liberation, and ethical principles. It is the doctrine and the natural law that governs the universe. The Sangha is the community of practitioners, traditionally referring to the monastic order of monks and nuns, but more broadly understood as all those who have attained some level of realization on the path to enlightenment, or all Buddhists who follow the Buddha's teachings.

To take refuge in the Three Jewels means to place one's trust and commitment in them as guides and inspirations for spiritual development. It is an expression of faith and a declaration of one's intention to follow the Buddhist path. This act is often formalized in a ceremony where an individual recites a declaration of refuge. The Ratanas are seen as the most precious entities in the Buddhist tradition, offering protection, guidance, and the ultimate goal of Nirvana.