What is the style of clothing fo guang monks and nuns wear?
Fo Guang monastics wear identical robes of a style common to the Tang Dynasty period (618-906). Long sleeves covering the hands are part of the traditional design. Fully ordained monk or nuns usually wear yellow, ochre-colored robes. This earth tone hue derives from the Buddha’s directive that they wear clothing assembled from clean, but discarded rags. The gray “work suit” tunic and pants are worn separately when doing chores. For special occasions, daily chanting, and other prescribed occasions, an additional ceremonial robe is draped over the left shoulder. Depending upon rank and occasion, the ceremonial dress may be brown draped over a black robe, orange over black, orange over brown or vermilion over orange. The draped robe is often sewn in a “patchwork” manner, which also harkens back to the rag origins of monastic attire. Fo Guang monastic feet, ankles, and calves are completely covered, reflecting Master Hsing Yun’s interest in going beyond the stereotypical image of a barefoo
