Monk's robe

yayalime · #1 28-12-07, 01:54 PM

Hi,
Is there a taboo against non monks wearing a robe?
For example, if I'd like to learn how monks wear their robe. It wouldn't have to really be a monks robe/colour etc, but just to learn how they tie it.
Thanks

Richard Barrow · #2 28-12-07, 02:42 PM

Strictly speaking, it is against the law to impersonate a monk in Thailand. However, it would be alright if you want to wrap a bedsheet around yourself! But, it is not an easy thing to do. You would, for sure, need the instruction from a monk to show you how to do it.

**Mel** · #3 28-12-07, 03:00 PM

If you are not a monk but you're wearing monk robe, it is ILLEGAL, the charge is called "แต่งกายเลียนแบบพระ", they will call you a fake monk.

But no law against people learn how to tie it, as long as you don't wear monk robe in public. While practicing you can use many kinds of cloth, but it is not appropriate to use monk robe which also called "ผ้าเหลือง" - yellow cloth, represented "Sangha", one of the Triple Gem (Buddha, Dhamma, Sangha) that is highly respected by Buddhists.

**Mel** · #4 28-12-07, 03:04 PM

Thanks Richard, I didn't see your post while moving around and also posting

.

yayalime · #5 28-12-07, 04:53 PM

Thanks Richard and Mel!

So it should be ok if I use, for example a piece of white/blue cloth?

Haivart · #6 17-01-08, 07:12 PM

Are all monk's robes saffron, or can there be other colors? I'm working with a Burmese DVD about a man who wears a white outfit and headpiece/turban and I'm not sure whether he is a monk or some kind of holy man or teacher. I know this isn't Thai, but perhaps someone can help me. Thank-you.

**billk** · #7 18-01-08, 09:24 AM

Is he a Muslim Imam perhaps?

**KeyKnock** · #8 29-11-08, 07:17 AM

Ive noticed there is a few different ways to wear the robes (weather pending)

1. pull the robes to one side of the body so they are flush,then roll the pulled material until it is tight against the body, and throw over shoulder. Secure roll inplace with a few books in the traditional shoulder bag

does anyone actually have any techniques to contribute to the art of robe tying here?