Vestment Expression

Dedication through Assumed Appearance

True Jediism is not cosplay, it is a way of life. If a Jedi wishes to express their dedication to the Force through traditional Jedi attire, they are encouraged to do so; however, Jedi are by no means required to change their appearance for the sake of the Order.

The Jedi's truest form of Expression is altruism.

The following are traditional vestments that you may wish to consider.

Band || Bendai Beads || Braid

Fæposh || Robes || Saber

Meditation Band

Buddha-Gear.com

Jedi meditation bands, meant to shield one's mind from dark thoughts and influences. However, it cannot protect the wearer against darkness that comes from within.

These bands may be purchased, specially designed to match the Jedi's attire using leftover fabric from the manufacturing of their robes, or may even be fashioned out of a prayer flag, so long as the flag remains intact.

The meditation band is typically worn as a headband across the forehead, or a blindfold covering the eyes.

A technologically advanced variation is the Matukai meditation band, which provides greater protection from the influences of the dark side. It might be considered akin to a sleep mask with built-in bluetooth headphones, used to isolate your sense of sound in order to limit audible distractions.

Anyone familiar with the Netflix series, STRANGER THINGS, Season 4, might also associate the manner in which Max Mayfield utilized her Walkman headphones to achieve a state of calm and control despite the literal nightmare scenario in which she has found herself.

A meditation band need not be an electronic device that plays music / sounds / noise. It may, of course, be a simple yet meaningful piece of cloth, as in the lotus flower handkerchief -- turned headband -- that was gifted to Daniel Larusso by Mr. Miyagi in THE KARATE KID.

The point, after all, is the significance and effectiveness of the meditation band in helping to achieve a centered and balanced meditative state.

To learn more about making and/or the application of Meditation Bands, schedule a class or crafting session via the Events page. Note: Fees may apply for supplies and/or hiring an instructor / specialist.

Bendai Beads

BEN: Encourage (with regard to completing a goal).

DAI: Large, Great

Bendai: Great Encouragement; Encourage Greatness

The Bendai Beads are a new, but simple adornment, created first for Zenryoku-kai, the Jedi Martial Arts. Inexpensive and simple to make, students are encouraged to create their own set of beads. Their small and simple appearance allows this adornment of one's path without large spectacle, which may be very important for some.

Much as many other aspects of the Way, this simple visual holds many deeper lessons. There are many aspects of the Way that exist in five parts, each finding its place within the Bendai Beads.

It teaches of the Guardian, who seeks peace by learning to be beyond the dominance of their emotions without attempting to do away with them. It tells of the Shaman, who seeks the inner knowledge of the world, using their ignorance as a map to sources of knowledge. It speaks of the Monk, who reaches for serenity by training themselves to exist beyond the overbearing passions and manias. It teaches of the Healer, who brings harmony by undoing the chaos done on all levels through injury, pain, and disease. It speaks to the Mystic, who reaches for the better connection to the Force, so that they can ascend beyond the bounds of death.

Bronze Bead

Archetype: Guardian

Code: Peace

Element: Earth / Metal

Trial: Flesh

Physical Sense: Sight

Internal Sense: Danger

Hinderance: Laziness

Illusion: Authority / Freedom

Gold Bead

Archetype: Shaman

Code: Knowledge

Element: Water

Trial: Insight

Physical Sense: Smell

Internal Sense: Time

Hinderance: Anxiousness

Illusion: Truth / Fact

Wood Bead

Archetype: Monk

Code: Serenity

Element: Air

Trial: Spirit

Physical Sense: Taste

Internal Sense: Motion / Balance

Hinderance: Desires

Illusion: Faith / Belief

Silver Bead

Archetype: Healer

Code: Harmony

Element: Fire

Trial: Courage

Physical Sense: Touch

Internal Sense: Presence

Hinderance: Ill Will

Illusion: Hope / Fear

Copper Bead

Archetype: Mystic

Code: The Force

Element: Spirit / Void

Trial: Skill

Physical Sense: Hearing

Internal Sense: Magnetism

Hinderance: Doubt

Illusion: Separation / Unity

Braid

Braids are a symbol used to distinguish someone following the Jedi path. They are lengths of intricately woven hair, typically worn across the right shoulder, and coming to rest above the right breast.

A proper braid can take years to grow; meanwhile, hair weaves that are braided into your natural hair are a suitable substitute.

Traditionally, in the lore, the braid (or beads) would be shed upon one of two occurrences:

1 - Attaining the rank of Jedi Knight, after passing the Jedi Trials.

• The ceremonial method of removing the braid often fell to the Master.

2 - Expulsion from the Jedi Order

While some Jedi Realists choose to mirror the lore in their practice, some members of Je'daii Order of Dai Bendu view the Jedi Braid as a lifetime symbol of dedication to the Jedi's ongoing journey.

Bindings

Materials

Thread is, by far, the most common binding for a braid; although carefully applied beads may also be used, if preferred. Be aware, though, that improper application of beads could potentially damage or altogether sever the strand.

Color

As seen in the image above, Anakin wears both blue and red thread to secure his braid. Very few lore sources provide insight into color choices, and those few that do sometimes contradict one another. As a matter of "best practice," we currently recommend that a Master or Padawan mindfully choose with their own intentions rather than assuming any heretofore unknown traditions.

Placement

Je'daii Order of Dai Bendu is actively working within a faction of the greater Jedi community to establish a consensus regarding the meaning of both color and placement among Jedi Realists. We will update this section as conclusions are drawn.

Alternatives

Whether for personal reasons (bald) or professional (workplace safety protocols), a literal braid may be impractical for many practitioners. The following are a few alternatives that you might consider:

Hair Weaves / Clips

Jedi who start out with short hair, and/or who may not be able to grow a long strand for braiding may opt for a pre-braided strand that is clipped or weaved into an existing patch of hair.

Silka Beads

Jedi who are genetically bald, or who prefer to shave their heads, may opt for Silka Beads -- one or more decorative strand of beads that attach to the scalp – whether by a strong adhesive (such as spirit gum) or by piercing – and hang free, long enough to drape over the shoulder. As of yet, we are still studying Silka Beads to determine if, like fæposh, the type, size, shape, and number of beads holds any significance, or if they are merely the traditionally accepted substitute. We will update this posting as we learn more.

Ear Adornment

Whether as a piercing (or series of piercings), one or more set of ear cuffs, or an ear wrap, there are many ways by which you might use color and placement relative to how braids are displayed.

Other / Supplemental

If ear adornments are still too impractical, or even if you'd like a secondary or tertiary item to mirror your braid, designing a specific item that can be carried in the pocket or on the person as a constant reminder may be a suitable option. For example, you might use the "friendship bracelet" braiding technique, a "totem strand" of beads, or a some other crafting technique to create a keychain attachment; or you might design a type of broach or epaulette (a.k.a. "shoulder insignia") that may be sewn or pinned to your robes where a braid would otherwise drape; etc. Padawans should consult with their Master on mindful selection and application of such devices.

To learn more about making and applying any of these Braid options and alternatives, schedule a class or crafting session via the Events page.

Image Credit: Jedi School

Fæposh

Prayer beads, meditation beads, rosary, jizu, mala, "heavenly garland", fæposh. There are many names for this beautifully simple, and strikingly symbolic strand of beads.

Known in Jediism as Fæposh or Faaposh (both spellings are correct, interchangeable, and share the same pronunciation (FAY-posh)), these are a multipurpose tool, primarily used to assist the Jedi in learning to comprehend truths about the Force.

A traditional fæposh consists of ten segments of nine beads each, separated by eight Path Beads, two Reflection Beads at the top, and a Master Bead at the opposite end. Suspended from the Master Bead are seven additional beads that represent personal spiritual growth, then finally culminating with a crowning emblem -- a decorative object of personal significance, such as a tassel, medallion, or crystal.

While a standard strand of prayer beads may be made of synthetic or manufactured materials (so long as they carry significance for the bearer -- as in the case of Quiggold, who implemented hyperdrive plotter pins in his personal strand), a proper fæposh is made of natural materials such as wood, stone, leather, cotton, wool, etc. (note: bone is not recommended).

In many traditions, the size, shape, and/or texture of a particular bead helps distinguish one from another. On a fæposh, the Path Beads may or may not match the Reflection Beads but, either way, these should be slightly different from the rest in order to distinguish them by touch. A bead might represent a particular prayer or mantra intended to be spoken or sung. The number of beads might represent the number of times a mantra or action is to be performed.

Furthermore, the color(s), material(s), and pattern of your fæposh should be done as mindfully as the choosing of the crowning emblem; and the assembly thereof should be done in a manner of meditative reverence.

Fæposh is an adornment that may be worn with one's daily attire. It may be worn at its full length around the neck or waist; doubled-up and worn around the neck; or tripled- or quadrupled-up and worn on a wrist or ankle. It may also be wound into a neat ring or ball and stored in a pocket, bag, or satchel. It should not be placed on the ground.

To learn more about making and/or instruction on how to use a Fæposh, schedule a class or crafting session via the Events page. Note: Fees may apply for supplies and/or hiring an instructor / specialist.

Robes

"They're just cloaks. Jedi don't wear uniforms."

-- Jaina Solo

"Robes" is a general term for the layers of clothing worn by the Jedi, from padawan to Master. While most share a number of commonalities, a Jedi's robes may truly be as personal and unique to the individual as they wish.

The simplicity of traditional (monastic) Jedi apparel was in many ways symbolic of the selfless compassion that characterizes the Jedi Order, and most Masters -- particularly within the Council -- choose their own variations on the traditional robes.

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The materials may be made from a variety of textiles, such as plant-based (cotton, hemp, and linens) or animal-based (silks, wools, and leather); as well as natural, and synthetic blends.

Most Jedi prefer simple robes that are comfortable and flowing; others prefer tight and flexible robes that allow for more functionality; others, still, might deliberately choose fabric that is rough-spun and itches against the wearer's skin in order to learn to ignore distracting physical sensations; and some may choose to integrate their common daily attire or even uniforms that suggest or reveal details such as rank(s) or special training from outside sources, such as the military or martial arts styles.

Colors are also open to consideration. There is nothing that states the Jedi attire MUST wear earth-tones and Sith wear mostly black. Known non-traditional color schemes include reds, blues, greens, blacks, and grays. While traditional robes consist of neutral earth tones, more than a few have chosen colors and designs that align with their culture, traditions, philosophies, type, class, status, and/or honor. That may sound contradictory to the Jedi's monastic traditions, but it is up to the possessor whether they can find peace and balance in however they choose to live and dress.

Frankly, a Jedi could be a nudist. In fact there are a notable few in the lore who are; though those mentioned are such because clothing is impractical for their species. Nevertheless, the argument stands.

The following is a list of layers you may wish to consider for your personal Jedi robes. Not every layer is required or might not even be desired, and some layers would certainly prove redundant to others.

Underwear

This should be whatever is most comfortable for you. The cut, style, material, color, etc (or even whether you wear it or not), are of no consequence to anyone but you. If you desire it to match the rest of your robes, that is your prerogative.

Pants

These are often front-tie Gi or harem pants, or khaki-style button-up (Qui-Gon wore these).

Skirt

This gender-neutral alternative to pants is akin to a kilt, lavalava, or pahoehoe. It is a rectangular piece of fabric that is wrapped around the body, and either tied and rolled to the waist, or secured by a sash, buckles, and/or belt.

Undershirt

An undershirt may be a loose- or form-fitted pull-over shirt with holes for the head and arms. It may or may not have sleeves. While it often goes unseen, like underwear, some notable Jedi wear an almost turtleneck-like undershirt in an accent color. Its intention is to absorb sweat and keep the outer robes fresh and stain-free.

Under- / Inner-tunic

A tunic is a loose-fitting garment that may be a pull-over like the undershirt, or a Gi-like wrap. It is an optional middle layer that provides an added level of warmth and/or padding.

Overtunic / Tabard

Often the "most" colorful and/or decorative tunic worn by a Jedi, which is just as likely to be the same plain, neutral earth-tones color, but with added folds or pleats. This typically hangs even with or slightly longer than the undertunic. However, rather than a tabard or Gi-tunic design, this may instead be an open design with symmetric pieces of cloth that are draped like a shawl and potentially sewn to the front, and may hang as low as one's knees (see Obi-Wan's overtunic).

Vest

An open-breasted tabard with holes for the arms, that ends at the waist or hips. It may be worn atop any and all layers besides the cloak, but would not likely be worn under any other layers except in preparation for a quick-change. It may be worn open, or closed with buttons or ties

Girdle

While most often worn by females, if chosen at all, it is technically a gender-neutral article of clothing. Women's girdles tend to be more decorative than men's. It is worn closed, fastened with buttons, hooks, or laced together with strands of sturdy ribbons or leather.

Kashaya

A length of 6'x9' fabric worn draped over the left shoulder and under the right arm.

Obi (Sash)

A thick-band of fabric around the waist, often used both as an accent and a padding for the belt.

Belt / Utility Belt

Perhaps the singular uniform item, if for nothing else but to hang your saber; a (typically) leather belt may also harbor pouches or small leather cases for holding simple items.

Boots

The height, style, color, and material for boots are up to the wearer, though not every Jedi chooses to wear them. An alternative might be sandals, or simply going barefoot.

Armor

Typically only worn by active-duty guards, or by Padawans during heavy training sessions, these sturdy plastic, leather, or metal plates may be worn on shoulders, arms, chest, groin, and/or legs. They're not very popular among Jedi because they restrict mobility, but certainly do have their purpose, and can look cool and intimidating, if that's your aim.

Cloak

An (often) hooded robe with long sleeves, worn atop all else. Commonly worn on diplomatic missions or for other official Jedi business. Easily removable for when a fight or a chase breaks out.

To learn more about how to make and/or layer Robes, schedule a class or crafting session via the Events page. Note: Fees may apply for supplies and/or hiring an instructor / specialist.

Saber

Traditionally, a saber is one of (if not) the only possessions of a Jedi, as all other needs were provided to them by their communities in gratitude for their protection.

"This is the weapon of a Jedi Knight.

Not as clumsy or random as a blaster; an elegant weapon for a more civilized age."

– Obi-Wan Kenobi

Currently, sabers are more of an aesthetic cosplay piece that may or may not have been designed to be suitable for sparring.

Some enthusiasts manufacture their own, while most are purchased from vendors who buy or make them in bulk.

According to lore, a kyber crystal is colorless until it is found, when it would become attuned to the wielder's "spiritual alignment" and assume a color. A Jedi's lightsaber blade was usually green or blue, but other colors were possible, such as purple, orange, yellow, and cyan. A crystal could be "bled," forcing it to bend to one's will, causing it to turn red. It could then, later, be healed from the dark side of the Force, causing it to turn white.

Saber blade colors have traditional meanings that are not altogether adhered to by collectors. Red, Green, and Blue (in bold) are the original canon colors; black, orange, yellow, purple, and white (semi-bold) were later made canon through the films; cyan, indigo, and magenta were made canon through video games; bronze, silver, and clear (italics) seem to be lore, or possibly canon through books.

Some of the traditional meanings of each hue are as follows:

Black -- Mystery, power, aggression, absence
Red -- Passion, unmitigated power, anger, determination
Orange -- Strength, energy, creativity, resourcefulness
Bronze -- Maturity, wisdom, a connection to nature
Gold -- TBD (some claim Rey's saber turned gold rather than yellow at the end of THE LAST JEDI)
Yellow -- Sentinel; change, energy, warmth, optimism, goodness
Green -- Consular; diplomacy, nature, growth, safety, harmony
Cyan -- Prosperity, peace, calm
Blue -- Guardian; justice, truth, serenity, trust, stability, loyalty
Indigo -- Wisdom, spirituality, intuition
Purple -- Balance, nobility, wisdom, non-conforming, responsible power
Magenta -- Charm, harmony, compassion
White -- Obedience, beginnings, purity, neutrality, positivity
Silver -- Absence of intent, purity, peace, serenity
Clear -- Absence of intent

Beyond the cosplay element, the saber hilt can still shine as an emblem of a Jedi's dedication to the Force. Without the kyber crystal, it falls to the Jedi to contemplate their own "spiritual alignment" to determine which color their saber would likely be.

Other

Note that ALL Expressions are optional / NONE of them are expected – let alone required – for anyone to be considered a Jedi. Practitioners are encouraged to present themselves in a way that helps them to feel one with the Force.

Here are some additional examples of Vestment Expressions that we found worth mentioning, but with disclaimers. Consider, first and foremost, that a Jedi is encouraged to maintain a humble yet presentable appearance.

There are no notable considerations when it comes to HAIR. This goes for the top of your head, down to your toes. Whether you choose to grow it out and style it, or shave any or all of it, is your prerogative. Yet, consider that one's personal hygiene is of an utmost consideration when representing one's self and one's intentions. Remember to regularly wash, trim, and style it in a way that is befitting of an upstanding member of your culture and society.

BODY ART, including tattoos and excessive piercings, can be a bold expression of the self. Society has grown much more accepting of these, on the whole, and are less likely to prevent you from achieving success in a chosen career path. Yet, as with all things, a Jedi is encouraged to be mindful of how they present themselves. If you choose to decorate your body with permanent or semi-permanent art, we encourage you to do so with serious contemplation and sincere and mindful intention.

NOTE: Jediism does not worship a deity and is not in competition with other religions. Je'Daii Order of Dai Bendu is a way of life that meditates on balance. If you have a deity, and/or existing religious practices, there is no need to alter that practice, so long as it is already centered mindfully.

For both official and unofficial texts, the Jedi Liturgy & Prayer Book has been made available by The Temple of the Jedi Order. Or you may examine the Official Doctrine of Je'daii Order of Dai Bendu.

Physical || Vocal || Mental || Visual || Vestments