Three Robes Revealing the True Teaching Chart (三衣顯正圖)

About 三衣顯正圖

Song · by 妙生述

4,724 · about 16 min

The *Diagram of the Three Robes Revealing the Proper Form*, composed by the eminent Song dynasty monk Miaosheng, is a classic work that elucidates the system of the three robes for Buddhist bhikkhus. This book, presented with both illustrations and text, systematically details the forms, rules for wearing, and symbolic meanings of the kasaya. Its purpose was to correct the prevalent shortcomings within the monastic community regarding robe regulations at the time and to restore the original intent behind the Buddha's establishment of the precepts. The content deeply integrates vinaya (monastic discipline) with spiritual practice, emphasizing the sacredness of the three robes as "field-of-merit garments." They serve as an outward manifestation of a monk's renunciation of worldly dust, fewness of desires, and contentment. This work holds a significant place in the history of Buddhist vinaya studies. It provides a valuable document for researching the thought of the Vinaya school in Song dynasty Buddhism and the transmission of robe systems within Chinese Buddhism, exerting a profound influence on the observance of precepts and practice for later generations.