Translation guide
This English phrase refers to the Three Jewels (三宝) of Buddhism: the Buddha, the Dharma (teachings), and the Sangha (community). In Japanese, this is a fixed religious term, not a phrase you would translate word-for-word. The standard expression is 仏法僧 (buppōsō), but it is mainly used in formal or liturgical contexts. For everyday reference, Japanese speakers usually refer to the three separately or use 三宝.
仏法僧
Buddha, the teachings of Buddha, and the community of monks and nuns
Formal Buddhist term for the Three Jewels. Not used in casual conversation.
Referring to the three refuges of Buddhism collectively.
The standard Sino-Japanese term for the Three Jewels: Buddha (仏), Dharma (法), and Sangha (僧). Used in sutras, formal writings, and temple contexts.
仏法僧に帰依する。
I take refuge in the Buddha, the Dharma, and the Sangha.
Another term for the Three Jewels, literally 'three treasures'. More common in general Buddhist discourse than 仏法僧.
三宝を敬う。
I revere the Three Jewels.
When you need to mention the Buddha, his teachings, and the monastic community as distinct entities.
Simply listing them with 'to' (and). This is the most natural way to say 'Buddha, the teachings, and the community' in Japanese.
仏と法と僧は仏教の三本柱です。
The Buddha, the teachings, and the community are the three pillars of Buddhism.
A more explicit, explanatory phrasing: 'the Buddha, his teachings, and the community of monks'. Useful when the audience may not be familiar with Buddhist terminology.
仏と、その教えと、僧侶の共同体に帰依します。
I take refuge in the Buddha, his teachings, and the community of monks.
The English phrase is a definition, not a natural expression. In Japanese, you would never say 'ブッダとブッダの教えと僧侶と尼僧の共同体' in normal speech. Use the set terms 仏法僧 or 三宝, or list them naturally as 仏と法と僧.
In casual conversation, Japanese people rarely refer to all three together. If you need to mention them, it's often in the context of 'taking refuge' (帰依する) or explaining Buddhism. The word 三宝 is more recognizable than 仏法僧.