The history of Hanfu, the traditional clothing worn by the Han people in China, spans over several millennia, evolving through various dynasties. While much of Hanfu is associated with daily life, court ceremonies, and important social events, specific Hanfu styles were also worn during religious ceremonies. These ceremonial garments were often designed to reflect the solemnity and sanctity of the event. The unique styles of Hanfu worn during these sacred rituals were distinct in their design, fabric, and colors, which set them apart from everyday clothing.
In religious ceremonies, Hanfu had symbolic significance. Priests, monks, and religious figures often donned elaborate robes that followed strict guidelines in terms of color schemes and patterns. The design of these garments reflected their role in society, the occasion, and the religious significance of the event. Whether it was Taoist, Buddhist, or Confucian ceremonies, the Hanfu worn during religious rites was meant to embody spiritual values and communicate respect for the divine.
Table: Hanfu Styles and Their Religious Significance
Hanfu Style | Religious Ceremony | Dynasty of Popularity | Symbolism | Key Elements |
---|---|---|---|---|
Daopao (Taoist Robe) | Taoist Rituals | Tang to Qing | Represents spiritual ascension | Loose fit, long sleeves, dark colors, often adorned with cloud or crane motifs |
Fusha (Buddhist Robe) | Buddhist Monastic Ceremonies | Northern Wei to Ming | Symbolizes renunciation of worldly attachments | Simple design, saffron or brown colors, wide sleeves, minimal decoration |
Xuanduan | Confucian Rituals | Han to Qing | Represents filial piety and respect | Black upper garment with red lower skirt, wide sleeves, knee-length tunic |
Jifu (Sacrificial Robe) | Ancestral Worship | Song to Qing | Reverence for ancestors, balance and harmony | Embroidered with dragon patterns, wide sleeves, used during state sacrifices |
Mianfu (Emperor’s Robe) | Imperial Religious Ceremonies | Han to Ming | Embodies the mandate of Heaven and authority | Complex design with nine dragon patterns, multi-layered, worn by emperors |
Evolution of Religious Hanfu Styles Through Dynasties
Han Dynasty (206 BCE – 220 CE)
During the Han dynasty, Confucianism became the dominant ideology, influencing the design and usage of Hanfu in religious ceremonies. The Xuanduan, for instance, was frequently worn during important Confucian rituals. This attire was modest and formal, adhering to Confucian principles of propriety and respect. The Xuanduan consisted of a black robe paired with a red skirt, symbolizing Heaven and Earth.
In Taoist ceremonies, Hanfu reflected the religious emphasis on harmony with nature. Daopao, the Taoist robe, began to take shape during this time. These robes were loose and flowing, symbolizing the Taoist ideals of simplicity and detachment from worldly concerns.
Tang Dynasty (618 – 907 CE)
The Tang Dynasty saw the rise of both Buddhism and Taoism as major religious influences. Buddhist monks and priests adopted the Fusha, a simple robe that symbolized the renunciation of worldly desires. The Fusha was often saffron-colored or brown, representing humility and the monks’ dedication to a life of simplicity. In contrast, Taoist priests wore more elaborate Daopao, adorned with intricate cloud or crane patterns symbolizing spiritual enlightenment.
During this period, ceremonial Hanfu became more elaborate, incorporating luxurious materials such as silk and brocade, particularly for use in grand religious ceremonies.
Song Dynasty (960 – 1279 CE)
The Song Dynasty emphasized ritual and propriety, which was reflected in the style of religious Hanfu. Confucianism was revived during this time, and the Xuanduan became the standard attire for state rituals and ancestral worship. The black and red combination continued to symbolize the harmony between Heaven and Earth, an essential Confucian concept.
Additionally, Buddhist ceremonial robes became more uniform. Monks wore Kasaya, a type of outer robe that draped over the shoulder, denoting their status and dedication to the monastic life. Taoist robes also became more defined, with the Daopao continuing to play a significant role in Taoist religious practices.
Ming Dynasty (1368 – 1644 CE)
In the Ming Dynasty, the imperial court had strict regulations on the attire worn during religious and state ceremonies. The Mianfu, a robe worn by the emperor during religious rituals, became a symbol of divine authority. This robe was intricately embroidered with dragon motifs, and the emperor wore it during sacrifices to Heaven and Earth, as well as during ancestral worship.
Taoist and Buddhist priests also followed specific dress codes. The Fusha worn by Buddhist monks remained simple, while Taoist robes became more luxurious, reflecting the priest’s status and the significance of the ceremony.
Qing Dynasty (1644 – 1912 CE)
The Qing Dynasty introduced a different influence on Hanfu, as the ruling Manchu people had their own distinct styles. However, traditional Hanfu was still worn in religious ceremonies, especially by Han Chinese officials and religious figures. Confucian rites continued to feature the Xuanduan, and Taoist and Buddhist robes remained unchanged in their symbolic significance.
Symbolism in Religious Hanfu
Religious Hanfu was not merely clothing but was imbued with deep symbolism. The colors, patterns, and materials used in these garments were carefully chosen to convey spiritual meanings. For example, black in Confucian rituals symbolized Heaven, while red symbolized Earth. In Taoist and Buddhist robes, simplicity and the avoidance of bright colors often represented detachment from worldly desires.
Dragons, clouds, and cranes were common motifs in Taoist robes, symbolizing immortality and spiritual enlightenment. In contrast, Buddhist monks wore plain robes, emphasizing the principle of non-attachment. The designs were simple, often devoid of elaborate patterns to reflect the monks’ vow of poverty and humility.
The Role of Hanfu in Religious Processions and Ceremonies
Religious ceremonies in ancient China were often grand affairs, with elaborate processions, rituals, and offerings. Hanfu played a critical role in these ceremonies, not only marking the status of the participants but also enhancing the solemnity of the occasion. For instance, during state sacrifices, emperors wore the Mianfu, which visually emphasized their role as intermediaries between Heaven and Earth.
Similarly, Taoist priests conducting rituals would wear Daopao, whose flowing form symbolized their connection with the natural world and the divine. In Buddhist ceremonies, the simplicity of the Fusha reflected the monk’s spiritual purity and renunciation of material wealth.
Influence of Hanfu on Modern Religious Practices
While Hanfu fell out of favor in daily wear after the Qing Dynasty, its use in religious ceremonies has persisted in some areas. Today, traditional Taoist and Buddhist robes are still worn during rituals, particularly in temples and during religious festivals. In Confucian ceremonies, such as ancestral worship, participants may still don traditional Xuanduan robes, honoring the ancient customs.
Modern Hanfu enthusiasts are also reviving these ceremonial styles, recognizing the cultural and spiritual significance of these garments. For example, Hanfu is now often worn during temple fairs, religious reenactments, and other cultural events that celebrate China’s ancient heritage.
Conclusion: The Spiritual Legacy of Hanfu in Religious Ceremonies
The specific styles of Hanfu worn during religious ceremonies were designed to reflect the solemnity and sacredness of the occasion. Whether it was the simplicity of Buddhist robes or the grandiosity of imperial garments, Hanfu played a vital role in religious expression. Today, the legacy of these garments continues, providing a tangible connection to the spiritual practices of ancient China.