Do people wear special clothes to attend Buddhist services?
In Buddhist services, normally lay Buddhists may wear a black robe which has the effect of solemnity and uniformity. It is of a traditional design common to Tang Dynasty when Buddhism was first established as a state religion in China. The black monotonous colour reduces distraction of mind, thus helping people to concentrate more. However, wearing the black robe may not be compulsory in temples. Buddhists who uphold the Five Precepts or Bodhisattva Precepts may drape a brown precept robe over the black robe.
