Introduction to Taoist Ritual Robes (法衣)

Fayi, also known as Fufu, is a general term for the costumes worn by Taoist masters during Taoist fasting, sacrificial rituals, and ritual ceremonies.

In Taihuang Zhidao Taiqing Yuce (The Jade Manual of the Supreme Purity on the Supreme Way of the Heavenly Emperor) written by Zhu Quan in the Ming Dynasty, it is stated: "The Yellow Emperor saw celestial beings, who wore golden hibiscus crowns with upward and downward decorations, and ritual robes adorned with golden stars, the Big Dipper, and cloud patterns. They held jade tablets and stepped forward, saying: 'Your Majesty has worked hard for the world and acted as the ruler for the people, which can be called virtuous.' The Emperor then began to model after their appearance to create ritual robes, which became the costumes for Taoists to worship the heavens."

Nowadays, Fayi is mostly interpreted as the clothing worn by masters during rituals, while the clothing worn by ordinary Taoists is called Daoyi (Taoist robes). Compared with Daoyi, Fayi is more exquisitely made, with gorgeous colors, an elegant and magnificent look, and a unique imposing manner.