The Taoist robes 道袍

Taoist robes, as explained in Taoist books: "Robe clothes are originally suitable for all seasons; their wide sleeves are so spacious as to wrap up the universe. They have never been stained by the slightest bit of the mortal world, nor can heat or cold invade them." Taoist robes are clothes suitable for Taoists all year round. Wearing them symbolizes the ability to contain all things in the universe, fully embodying Taoists' clear and bright virtues of tolerating all things, being broad and graceful, being free from worldly strife, and being content with poverty and devoted to Tao.

To solve the problem that the wide sleeves and large cuts of Taoist robes make movement inconvenient, Taoists often use a belt to tighten the robe, facilitating walking and activities. However, Taoist books endow the belt with more mysterious connotations from a religious and theological perspective: "A silk sash runs through nine dragons, and the majesty of Taoism is always tied around the waist. It locks up the 'monkey-like heart' and 'horse-like will', preventing one from losing their true nature to mortal frivolity." It is indeed majestic and mysterious that a belt is said to be transformed by the penetration of nine dragons, showing the otherworldly and celestial demeanor of Taoists. More importantly, tying the belt is to lock up the selfish thoughts and distractions of Taoists during cultivation, preventing them from being restless and tempted by the mortal world, so as to achieve the goal of devoting themselves to cultivation, refreshing the spirit, preserving the true nature, and attaining profound Taoist attainments.