Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha
Creative expressions of the three jewels
Teacher Experience
A contemplative invitation for educators to reflect on before teaching.When you take refuge, imagine drawing on the strength and example of the Buddha as a master teacher, speaking to each student in the way that best matched their capacity. Remember you’re aspiring to share the dharma, this protective path that guides beings from endless unnecessary suffering. When you share the power of Sangha, reflect on your own experience of connecting with others who, just like you, wish to awaken. For non-Buddhists: What are your three main sources of guidance and support as an educator? Who are your role models? What inspiration guides you? What community do you draw strength from? Consider how reflecting on these questions with students might create deeper trust.
Student Experience
A contemplative invitation for students to connect with this learning goal.Experience creating something with your hands, voice, or body that represents something important to you, like family, friends, or a favorite place.
Understanding
Students will understand...The three jewels—the Buddha, the dharma, and the sangha—are important sources of support and guidance that Buddhists treasure and turn to for help.
Action
Students are able to...Identify the three jewels using multiple senses and intelligence pathways; create simple artistic representations (drawing, movement, or songs) that show the Buddha, dharma, and sangha; and explain their creations to others.
Content Knowledge
Students will know...The three jewels are three very important things that Buddhists treasure and care about: the Buddha, the dharma, and the sangha.
The Buddha was a wise teacher who lived long ago. He learned how to be happy and peaceful, and he taught others how to be happy too. Buddhists look up to the Buddha like children look up to a favorite teacher or grown-up.
The dharma means the Buddha’s teachings – all the helpful things he taught about being kind, sharing, and taking care of each other. It’s like having really good rules that help people live together happily.
The sangha means the community of people who follow the Buddha’s teachings. They help each other and take care of each other, like a big family of friends who all want to be good and kind.
Buddhists think these three things are like precious jewels because they help people feel safe, happy, and loved.
Guiding Questions
Implementation Possibilities
Create “three jewels corners” in the classroom with Buddha images, dharma books, and photos of Buddhist communities for tactile exploration. Practice simple songs or chants that name each jewel with accompanying hand gestures. Design art projects where students draw or sculpt representations of a wise teacher, helpful teachings, and caring community. Facilitate show-and-tell sessions where students explain their artistic creations. Use storytelling with props to make each jewel concrete and memorable. Establish group activities that let students experience being helpful community members.
Assessment Ideas
Observe students during creative activities to see if they can name and distinguish the three jewels. Listen to their explanations of artwork or performances to assess understanding. Document their ability to connect each jewel to concrete examples through informal conversations during activity time.
