Taking Vows Online
We rejoice that you aspire to deepen your path by taking these vows online. How wonderful!
H.E. Garchen Rinpoche has said that it is extremely beneficial to take vows online, as it really shows you have a strong aspiration to receive them! Rinpoche explains that the reason we are truly able to receive vows online, is due to the ultimate nature of the Three Jewels — the Buddha, the Dharma (teachings), and the Sangha (spiritual community). Their ultimate nature is actually love, which is all-pervasive like space. So if we have the heart and intention of love, we receive the vows whether or not we are physically present for the ceremony.
To take your vows, select from the offerings below and follow the instructions. May all beings benefit!
The photo above is a statue of the transcendent Ksitigarbha, a great bodhisattva and the embodiment of courage, selflessness and love. Ksitigarbha took a vow to uproot the misery and suffering of all sentient beings. He stands on the ridge path of the Institute, blessing us all.
Refuge Vow
Taking refuge is the first step on the Buddhist path, and often occurs as a natural outgrowth of learning about Buddhism and reflecting upon the meaning of the teachings, for ourselves personally and in light of the human condition. It represents turning toward a genuine spiritual path that can be of benefit not only to ourselves but to others as well. Anyone may take refuge.
HIDDEN Place Holder - do not change
Take the Refuge Vows
To take refuge from afar
CLICK HERE
Bodhisattva Vow
The Bodhisattva Vow can only be taken after you have taken the Refuge Vow. This vow represents our commitment to the altruistic intent; to the courageous heart which places others before self and seeks enlightenment to benefit all sentient beings. In taking this vow, we commit to love and compassion as our path. You may renew this vow any time, and repeatedly.
HIDDEN Place Holder - do not change
Take the Bodhisattva Vows
To take the Bodhisattva Vow with H.E. Garchen Rinpoche, please watch the following video of Rinpoche offering the Bodhisattva Vows on his birthday (thus, cake and singing at the beginning of the video)
CLICK HERE