Abstract

This qualitative thesis has three objectives, namely 1) To study the concept of robes in Buddhist scriptures, 2) To study the robe colours used in the Buddha’s period and Myanmar and 3) To analyze the development of Myanmar robe from the Buddha’s period to the present time. On the other hand, this research work is divided into five chapters and each chapter is based mainly on documentary research such as the shapes, wearing styles, colours of Buddhist monastic robes. Moreover, the relevant sources of certain Buddhist texts, both the early Canonical texts and post Canonical literature have been accordingly examined.

The results of the study indicate how the general concept of robe in the Buddha’s time correlates to Myanmar robes and others in Buddhist countries appearing in Buddhist texts; either in the Buddhist Canonical texts or in the other Buddhist texts. These were analyzed for a better understanding in a systematic and academic way. The research studies in detail how the Buddhist monks’ robes can be affected and provide an introduction to Theravāda Buddhist teachings.

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