The above photo (created with some digital alterations for mood) was taken this past fall. You may guess that it was photographed outside someone's home or an ancient temple. Those are two places where people remove their shoes out of cleanliness or worship. It was taken outside the Canggu Monastery temple in Lhasa, Tibet, China. Look at the shoes. I was studying this and saw an unusual variety in style and color, but they were ever practical. These are the shoes of Buddhist nuns. They must shave their heads and wear the red robes each day. No need to decide what to wear or try to find something that fits that newly expanded waistline. Maybe having that stress removed was one reason for the peaceful smiles that they all gave us. You just have to decide on shoe style.
This photo above (painterly) was taken at the Canggu Nunnery in Lhasa. The nunnery is open to the public. In Buddhism, nuns can take on the same roles as monks in teaching, preaching, performing rituals, etc. Although some sects are more strict than others. (All religions seem to have some misogyny based on gender.)
About 100 nuns live here and the monastery has existed since the 12th century. They make money by manufacturing items such as clothing and printed texts as well as donations. The nunnery also runs a clinic and employs professional doctors and serves the local residents. The nuns are loved and trusted by the local residents because of this. They also run a tea and bun house, but I did not have time to purchase tea as I was off taking photos!
Now back to the shoes. They are all very similar and practical. They are easy to remove as the nuns must do this several times a day. Yet some are a little more flashy than others. I was wondering if a bit of their personality escapes through the shoes. Are the shoes donated? Are the shoes purchased by the sect? Can nuns go shopping? Feel free to enlighten me in the comments.
We also were able to watch them doing laundry. If they had not been so sweet and gentle this might have seemed intrusive. Here below is another photo that raises so many questions.
I look forward to your comments!
Now back to the shoes. They are all very similar and practical. They are easy to remove as the nuns must do this several times a day. Yet some are a little more flashy than others. I was wondering if a bit of their personality escapes through the shoes. Are the shoes donated? Are the shoes purchased by the sect? Can nuns go shopping? Feel free to enlighten me in the comments.
We also were able to watch them doing laundry. If they had not been so sweet and gentle this might have seemed intrusive. Here below is another photo that raises so many questions.
I look forward to your comments!