what is a mitra
Mitra is a Sanskrit word meaning 'friend'. People ask to become a Mitra when they themselves: 1. consider that they are Buddhists; 2. want to live in accordance with the five ethical precepts; 3. believe that the Triratna Buddhist Community is the appropriate spiritual community for them. The process is self-selecting and open to anyone. The only suggestion is that people have been involved with the Triratna Buddhist Community for at least six months, and therefore have a reasonable sense of the context they have chosen.
Becoming a Mitra publicly marks a deepening of interest and commitment. Mitra's have additional activities available to them including specific retreats and a study group that is part of a three year course covering the key aspects of the Buddha's teaching and Sangharakshita's approach to it. Once a person's interest in becoming a Mitra has been received, he or she takes part in a simple ceremony. Mitras are recognized by all Order members and Triratna Buddhist Communities in the world.
Becoming a Mitra is intended to be a way to mark a shift from being someone who is interested in Buddhism or who likes meditating, to being someone who feels a definite affinity with the Buddhist path within this context. Although this is an internal process it is helpful to mark the process externally, so we celebrate the occasion with a Mitra Ceremony — a simple ritual that includes a Mitra offering a flower (symbolizing beauty and impermanence), a candle (clarity, and the light of the dharma) and incense (the fragrance of beneficial actions and the ever-changing nature of the spiritual life).
If you are interested in becoming a Mitra, or have questions about it, talk to someone involved in leading or supporting any class that you are attending.
Becoming a Mitra publicly marks a deepening of interest and commitment. Mitra's have additional activities available to them including specific retreats and a study group that is part of a three year course covering the key aspects of the Buddha's teaching and Sangharakshita's approach to it. Once a person's interest in becoming a Mitra has been received, he or she takes part in a simple ceremony. Mitras are recognized by all Order members and Triratna Buddhist Communities in the world.
Becoming a Mitra is intended to be a way to mark a shift from being someone who is interested in Buddhism or who likes meditating, to being someone who feels a definite affinity with the Buddhist path within this context. Although this is an internal process it is helpful to mark the process externally, so we celebrate the occasion with a Mitra Ceremony — a simple ritual that includes a Mitra offering a flower (symbolizing beauty and impermanence), a candle (clarity, and the light of the dharma) and incense (the fragrance of beneficial actions and the ever-changing nature of the spiritual life).
If you are interested in becoming a Mitra, or have questions about it, talk to someone involved in leading or supporting any class that you are attending.