Buddhist Robes?

Question

I was wondering what the colour ment on the Busshist robes; is the orange symbolic of anything? And are there different colours or anything to define a rank or heirarchy in their religion?

The only colour that I've seen is orange and I didn't know if there was a way to destinguish between who had a higher rank or position than other monks.

Thanks!

Answer 1

They are a symbol of simplicity, since all they own is their clothes and the communal temple. There are some hierarchies in some versions, but no special clothes for the regulars. There is probably a ceremonial dress for the Dalai Lama, but I doubt it. The rank is really just respect those more knowledgable.

Answer 2

i've heard that orange symbolises sacrifice - giving up the worldly attachments...

it comes out of the indian tradition all the monks of all the different religions where orange robes, but they are different shades and styles.

So the main thing you can tell from the robes is what group they come from rather than their rank in the group.

Answer 3

Buddhanet.net has pix and lots of info on the monks' robes of various traditions.

I never paid much attention to robes and that part of monasticism because I'm far too concentrated on subduing my own deluded MIND which requires MUCH work... but I'm sure you'll find lots of interesting info if you poke around.

Sorry I'm not of much help.

Edit: addition to "Jedi's" post... Tibetan Buddhist monks who are "higher ranking" do wear ceremonial hats and such, depending on their lineage. The humility is generally astounding though (at least in Tibetan Buddhist tradition... I can't speak for others as much since I'm only Tibetan, Gelugpa) and HHDL often refers to himself as a "simple monk" but if you ask... you'll likely find someone who'll tell you who outranks themselves.

_()_