The Three Jewels
Religious Studies: KS3, topic 2.3.13
The Three Jewels
The Three Jewels are at the heart of Buddhism. They are “jewels” because they are precious and life-changing.
What are the Three Jewels?
- The Buddha → the teacher.
- The Dharma → the teachings of the Buddha.
- The Sangha → the community of practitioners.
The Buddha (The Teacher)
- The Buddha was Siddhartha Gautama, who reached enlightenment through deep understanding and meditation.
- Siddhartha is an example of how to end suffering.
- Buddhists do not worship the Buddha as a god. They follow his path to develop wisdom and compassion.
- Statues or images of the Buddha remind people to live peacefully and mindfully.
- Anyone can reach enlightenment through effort and understanding.
The Dharma (The Teachings)
- The Dharma is the teachings from the Buddha about how to live a good life.
- It includes the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path.
- The Dharma helps people understand how to overcome suffering and live kindly.
- By following the Dharma, Buddhists act with wisdom, compassion, and mindfulness.
- This might finally help them reach enlightenment.
The Sangha (The Community)
- The Sangha is the community of Buddhists who practise the teachings together.
- It includes monks and ordinary followers.
- The Sangha provides support, friendship, and encouragement. They keep the Buddha’s teachings alive.
- They remind each other that they are not alone on the journey to enlightenment.
Test yourself on The Three Jewels
Who is the Buddha in the Three Jewels?
What is the Dharma?
What is correct about the Three Jewels of Buddhism?