threefold refuge ［三帰・三帰依・三帰戒］ ( san-ki, san-kie, or san-kikai): Also, three refuges or triple refuge. To take refuge in the three treasures, i.e., to believe in and give allegiance to the Buddha, the Law (the Buddha’s teaching), and the Buddhist Order (community of believers). The threefold refuge can also mean the three treasures themselves. Fidelity to the three treasures is an essential for all Buddhists. The formula “I take refuge in the Buddha, I take refuge in the Law, I take refuge in the Order” was recited as a profession of faith by monks and laypersons from very early times during initiation and other ceremonies. See also threefold refuge and observance of the five precepts.