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How to Become a Buddhist?

obz900obz900
edited October 2010 in Buddhism Basics
Hello everyone! This is my first post, and I'm hoping to get an answer to a question I've had for quite some time. Lately I've become very interested in Buddhism and have decided that I want to follow this path. I read that in order to become a Buddhist, one must first "Take Refuge", preferrably in front of a monk. This however is a problem as I live in a relatively small city and the nearest temple is quite a ways away. Any suggestions? Is it ok to do this without a monk? Thanks much

Comments

  • ShiftPlusOneShiftPlusOne Veteran
    edited October 2010
    Well... would you say you're a Buddhist?
  • CloudCloud Veteran
    edited October 2010
    OP: The minimum requirement is that you take refuge internally (in your own heart and mind) in the Buddha, the Dharma and the Sangha; and at least the Five Precepts. It isn't necessary to do this at a monastery before a bhikkhu, but it's a plus if you can. "Being a Buddhist" is something you need to decide -- requirements aside, the Buddha's teachings are a vehicle toward liberation of yourself or others. For this you would also study and follow the Noble Eightfold Path in your daily life.

    It isn't like some religions where you need to be recognized. It's all in your intentions and your actions; not on others. Many Buddhists do not even call themselves Buddhists, and let me tell you the census people hate that...
  • HanzzeHanzze Veteran
    edited October 2010
    Nothing to do, to be a "Buddhist" (someone who follows the Buddhadhamma). It is better to follow the Dhamma as to justify and declare your self.
    If somebody ask, are you a Buddhist: "Look your self." or "What ever you like me to be."
    ...-ist ;-) not that compatible, there is to much ego inside!
  • BonsaiDougBonsaiDoug Simply, on the path. Veteran
    edited October 2010
    In Gary Gach's book, The Complete Idiot's Guide to Buddhism, the question is asked:

    What's the difference between a Buddhist and a non-Buddhist?

    The non-Buddhist thinks there's a difference.
  • HanzzeHanzze Veteran
    edited October 2010
    :cheer:
  • TheJourneyTheJourney
    edited October 2010
    Accept the four noble truths and attempt to follow the noble eightfold path and you are a buddhist.
  • MountainsMountains Veteran
    edited October 2010
    Well, you do have to learn the secret handshake. But you can't be trusted with that for many years yet :)
  • TheJourneyTheJourney
    edited October 2010
    Mountains wrote: »
    Well, you do have to learn the secret handshake. But you can't be trusted with that for many years yet :)

    I didn't even know we were allowed to speak of it on an online forum? :confused:
  • MountainsMountains Veteran
    edited October 2010
    Oops! Never mind!!
  • CloudCloud Veteran
    edited October 2010
    But of course we are not allowed to use the secret handshake until we have learned how to shake hands with no one at all.
  • unsuiunsui
    edited October 2010
    The first rule of Buddhism: There is no Buddhism.
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