By Mary Dubitzky | Submitted On September 20, 2009
Buddha himself told a man from another religion that had come to try to convert Buddha, “Make a proper investigation first. Proper investigation is good for a well known person like yourself.” If you have any interest you will need to research how to become a Buddhist. In learning how to become a Buddhist you will find that there are several steps to become a Buddhist.
In Buddhism all of the teachings are based on ultimate understanding. Complete understanding takes time. You must take the Three Refuges. You must take refuge in Buddha, Dhamma (Buddha’s teachings) and the Sangha (community of enlightened beings). Once you have taken the Three Refuges you must completely understand the Four Noble Truths. Taking refuge is best done with the guidance of a priest of Buddha. If you can not find a suitable priest you should take refuge in front of an image of Buddha. The placement of the image is very important. It needs to be placed so that when you kneel for reflection it is at the level of your head or higher. Kneel in front of the image and place your palms together at your chest. Bow three times to the image so that your palms and forehead touch the floor.
As a Buddhist you are to keep the Five Precepts close to heart at all times. Do not take anything that is not freely given, abstain from sexual misconduct, do not destroy any living creatures, do not make false speech and abstain from taking any kind of intoxicants (drugs, alcohol, etc.) that can lead to carelessness.
There is a great deal more to learning all about how to become a Buddhist than some ritual gestures and reciting a mantra. You must truly believe in the teachings of Buddha and incorporate them into your daily life. With out this dedication you will never become a transcendent being and enter the state of enlightenment.
When you experience Buddhism you experience… Life. Visit BuddhaLogic.org [http://buddhalogic.org] | the ultimate tool for self discovery.
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