by Trinity Waters

Created on: May 04, 2008

When making an important decision in life. It is important to research first. In fact, Siddhartha (known as the Buddha) believed this. One day a man, who had known Buddha for only a brief time asked the Buddha how to become one of his followers. Buddha replied; "Make proper investigation first."

In order to become a Buddhist, there are steps that one should take prior to recognizing yourself as a Buddhist. The first thing that you should do is study what it is to actually be a Buddhist. Ask questions and consider the teachings. Ask yourself if this is something that you can commit to. If after you have done those things, and decide that Buddhism is for you, the next step should be to visit some temples or on-line Buddhist groups or maybe spend time with those in the Sangha (Buddhist community).

The Buddha's first teachings were the Four Noble Truths.
1.In life there is suffering
2.Suffering comes from craving and attachments
3.There is an end to suffering
4.Suffering can be ended by following the eightfold path

These truths teach you that life has disappointments, but if you learn from life's experiences and realize the reason for the let downs, you will no longer need to cling to certain things and therefore lead a happier life.

Following the Eightfold Path is essential to leading a happier life according to the Buddha. Following the Eightfold Path is something to apply to your everyday life, actions, and thoughts.

The Eightfold Path:
1. Right View 5. Right Livelihood
2. Right thought 6. Right effort
3. Right speech 7. Right Mindfulness
4. Right action 8. Right Concentration

The next step to becoming a Buddhist is to take refuge. To do so is to take refuge in the Three Jewels. The Three Jewels are the Buddha (the enlightened one), the Sangha (the Buddhist community) and the Dharma (the teachings). To take refuge means that you understand suffering and you realize Three Jewels can help you relieve it. It is not necessary to take refuge in front of an audience or any Buddhist teacher. Taking refuge can be done alone. It is usually done by reciting these vows:

I take refuge in the Buddha.
I take refuge in the Dharma.
I take refuge in the Sangha.

Other vows (also called the Five Precepts) are:
No killing
No intoxicants
No stealing
No lying
No sexual misconduct

The everyday life of a good Buddhist will include meditation, cultivating kindness, exercising the eightfold path and the five precepts, participating in charitable activities and paying homage to the Buddha.

"There are only two mistakes one can make along the road to truth; not going all the way, and not starting."
-Buddha

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