What is the most important aspect of going for refuge?

The feeling of going for refuge is especially important. Sometimes people put too much emphasis on creating a clear image of the sources of refuge, without having first gained any feeling or appreciation for the act of going for refuge itself. 

If on the other hand, we first seek an understanding of and intense feeling of going for refuge, then gradually, clarity of image or clear appearance will arise of itself. Clarity of image without appreciation and feeling will not bring same benefits.

His Holiness, 17th Karmapa

Ogyen Trinley Dorje

From teaching on Torch of Certainty and commentary by 
Jamgon Lodro Thaye 

at 31st Kagyu Monlam

Session 2