法界次第初門 1.220

1.220

Second, taking refuge in the Dharma. "Dharma" in the language of Qin means "model" (fa); "dharma" is said to be that which can serve as a standard. That which is spoken by the Great Sage, whether teaching or principle, can serve as a standard for the mind; hence it is called "dharma." "Taking refuge" means turning away from heterodox dharmas and returning to cultivate the correct Dharma; therefore it is called taking refuge. "Relying upon" means depending on the Dharma spoken by the Buddha to be able to escape the three destinies and the birth and death of the three realms. Therefore a sūtra says: "One who takes refuge in the Dharma is forever free from killing and harming."