Question about Rakusu

[Andalublue]

Thank you all for your diverse and eloquent replies. It has a deep meaning, yet means nothing. How very Zen! How very 'just so'!

[Hans]

Hello,

thank you all for your wonderful input.

The tiny little two cents I'd like to add here are just a little observation. Different from a mighty sceptre, sword or something equally impressive in terms of its overall symbolism, the Kesa is something that can and should be worn as an item that is both humble yet all embracing. It is a perfect brother/sister to the Buddha's begging bowl. All is contained therein, and only those with eyes to see will notice their limitless worth. For others it is just a piece of cloth...

But then maybe it is better to just see a piece of cloth than to ever wear the Kesa as a means to praise and aggrandise oneself.


Gassho,

Hans Chudo Mongen

[Seisou]

Beautifully said, everyone.
Gassho

[alan.r]

Beautifully said, everyone.
Gassho

Yes.

gassho

[Kaishin]

Thank you for the questions and responses
Gassho, Kaishin

[Andalublue]

Great explanations! Thank you for taking the time, Myozan, Dosho, Hans and Fugen.

In gassho.

Anda

[Dokan]

How to make a rakusu?

Cotton grown with water and sun, then cut and
Woven into sheets, dyed a muted hue and cut
Again, into meticulously measured strips.
One long piece, one short piece,
Long on top, then long on the bottom,
Sewn together in an interlocking clasp,
Five times, then all five stitched together.
All in a frame then, with four guardians
On the four directions of the face; two straps
For wearing and a neck piece, pine needle
Stitched in. To the teacher then, who stains
The work, brush dipped in ink and water,
The seal of perfection’s imperfection,
And his circular stamp like the blazing sun.

Enthusiastic Gassho!

Dokan

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[Myosha]

Inspiring all.

Gassho,
Edward