Saffron color Buddhist monks wear

Theravada monks have preserved the tradition of the original robes for 25 centuries not by keeping the literal, physical cloth from the time of the Buddha, but by meticulously adhering to the Vinaya (monastic discipline) rules regarding their construction, material, and color. This practice represents a living tradition of poverty, simplicity, and renunciation. 

Here is how the tradition has been preserved over 25 centuries:

1. The Principle of Pamsukula (Rag-Robes)

Originally, monks were commanded to show extreme humility by using pamsukula—discarded rags or cloth found in rubbish heaps, cremation grounds, or burial shrouds. 

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• Significance: These cloths were considered "ownerless," reinforcing the renunciation of worldly possessions.

• Process: The gathered rags were cleaned, cut into usable pieces, boiled with natural dyes (vegetable matter, tree bark, spices), and stitched together. 

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2. The "Rice Paddy" Design

To make the robes distinct from lay clothing and to prevent theft (because they were made of garbage), the Buddha instructed that they be cut into many small pieces and stitched together in a pattern resembling the rice paddy fields of Magadha. This distinctive patched design has been consistently maintained for 25 centuries. 

3. The Triple Robe (Ticivara) System

Theravada monks are permitted to own only a set of three robes, known as the Ticivara: 

• Antaravasaka: Lower garment (sarong).

• Uttarasanga: Upper robe, covering one or both shoulders.

• Sanghati: Double-thick outer robe for warmth. 

4. Natural Dyeing and Color

Traditionally, robes were dyed in earthy, muted tones using tubers, bark, leaves, flowers, and tree roots, which resulted in shades of orange, yellow, and saffron. While synthetic fabrics are used today, the traditional saffron/ochre color remains to honor the "banner of the Arahant". 

5. Evolution to Modern Practice

While the Pamsukula tradition is still practiced by some forest monks, modern Theravada monks typically receive donations of cloth, especially during the Kathina ceremony. However, the tradition requires that this new cloth be cut, sewn, and dyed to match the original, patched, "low-value" appearance, thus maintaining the spirit of the original rules. 

Summary of Preservation:

• 2500 Years Ago: Used cloth, scavenged from cemeteries/rubbish, dyed with spices.

• Today: Donated/purchased cloth, sewn in "paddy field" pattern, dyed in saffron colors, symbolizing the same detachment.