The Nayi (衲衣) Bainayi

The Nayi (衲衣) Bainayi

Paul Peng
Nayi, also known as "Bainayi" (hundred-patch robe), was originally a costume worn by Buddhist monks and nuns, and later adopted by Taoist wandering monks (Yunshui Daoren). Taoist precepts stipulate that the clothes of wandering Taoists should be made by sewing together discarded broken pieces of cloth, and their function is to "subdue the body and nature", eliminate distracting thoughts, and concentrate on practicing Taoism.

There is a poem in Taoist books praising the Nayi: "Who has sewn it with thousands of needles and threads? It ignores heat and cold, and pays no mind to the passing autumns. With a little elixir carried in the sleeve, it will surely help one ride a crane to the crazy islet."

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Paul Peng — Zhengyi Taoist Priest, Longhu Mountain

About the Author

Paul Peng

Paul Peng is a Zhengyi Taoist priest from Longhu Mountain, Jiangxi — the ancestral home of the Celestial Masters' tradition. Ordained at 25 after a dream from the Celestial Master, he has practiced for 25 years under Master Zeng Guangliang. He is the curator of this store, which is officially authorized by Tianshi Fu. All items are consecrated at the temple by the resident priest team.

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