What are the most common verses recited at PBA?
In keeping with our non-denominational character and our focus as a silent meditation group, the recitation of Buddhist scriptural versus is kept to a minimum. The following verses, which address basic Buddhist goals and span the various traditions are usually recited at the beginning of each session. Refuge or Three Treasures I go for refuge to the Buddha. I go for refuge to the Dharma. I go for refuge to the Sangha. In this context, Buddha can be understood as the source of the teaching, Dharma as the teaching, and Sangha as the universal community of Buddhists. One way to understand “refuge” is “cure” or “therapy” for the dualistic grasping which, the Buddha taught, is at the root of all human suffering, or duhkha. “Suffering” here has the sense of life being basically unstable or unsubstantial due to the fact that everything is changing and impermanent. The Four Immeasurables May all living beings have happiness, and the causes of happiness; May all living beings be free from suffe
