Zen Sect Chan Robes

Lu Feng listened to the two converse and could not help finding it rather strange. He asked, "Do Chan Masters not usually emphasize cleansing the heart, curbing desire, and not clinging to things? Why use Chan robes to distinguish one's cultivation in the Chan Dao? To distinguish ranks of superiority among yourselves?"

Pu Xin's expression turned displeased as she explained, "These are rules left behind by our predecessors. Their original purpose was not to flaunt superiority or honor, but to encourage the cultivation of the younger generation of Zen Followers."

"Encourage cultivation?" Lu Feng vaguely seemed to understand.

Pu Xin further clarified, "Those who have only just entered the Chan Dao generally have unsettled Chan hearts and are easily influenced. Yet wearing Chan robes can impose a certain psychological restraint upon them while also encouraging them. The differing styles of Chan robes can likewise stir a yearning for cultivation in their hearts."

"Someone like your friend Miao Qing, who entered the sect not long ago, belongs among those whose Zen Heart has not yet settled. Her robe follows the 'Outer Blue Inner White' style. But her karmic affinity runs deep, and Master Hengyi Chan took a liking to her and accepted her as a disciple. Once she successfully completes the 'Da Qi' ritual, she will change into a 'Pure Blue Chan Robe,' signifying 'Zen Heart Initially Settled.'"

As Pu Xin spoke, she pointed at Miao Hu and the other two on the foundation. "Robes like theirs are Pure Blue Chan Robes. Zen Followers who have cultivated in the sect for three to five years generally wear such attire. Now that all of them can enter Zen Meditation, it likely will not be long before they enter the Zen Academy for intensive cultivation and change into the 'Deep Blue Chan Robe,'