Relay Column: It's Not a “Uniform”? What Members of Clergy Wear (Koure Makita)

There are various "uniforms" associated with occupations in our world. For example, police officers, nurses, and firefighters all have distinct outfits. Perhaps the suits worn by so-called “salarymen” could also be considered a type of uniform.

Now, what about the robes of priests (Kannushi) at shrines or the Kasaya worn by monks at temples? Some people might hesitate to classify them as "uniforms." I personally might not be able to answer with a simple YES.

This hesitation comes from the fact that religious figures, known as "clergy" [1], hold a somewhat different, "special" and "sacred" image compared to conventional professions. This distinction might make us feel a strong connection between their attire and their body, making it challenging to categorize them as simply "uniforms." In reality, while the attire of Kannushi and monks has undergone changes since modern times and varies based on country and region, it carries historical significance and is closely tied to religious norms and culture. The desire of young individuals to wear the white robes and red hakama as part-time Miko (shrine maidens) during New Year's celebrations may stem from an awareness of this context. Hence, it seems that both the clergy and those around them recognize that what clergy wear differs significantly from "uniforms" that represent a profession or status.

Reflecting on this leads me to consider that the perception of clergy attire not being a “uniform” effectively illustrates the divide between religious figures and conventional professions.

The “You're Not Clergy” Discourse

Shifting topics slightly, the harsh working conditions faced by schoolteachers, including long hours and low wages, are frequently highlighted in the media. Amid discussions about the necessity of applying standard labor rights to them, the phrase "teachers are not clergy" often emerges.[2]

This assertion is commonly used not only in reference to teachers but also to roles like police officers and firefighters—professions that are often idealized for their dedication to serving the public. It implies that "since they are not clergy, their rights as workers should be secured. They need breaks, and they should receive overtime pay," thereby differentiating them from clergy. While I can agree with this perspective on one hand, the question that persistently crosses my mind as someone who studies religion is, "Is it better if they were clergy?"

As I specialize in religious anthropology and research female clergy at shrines, I witness these individuals wearing white robes and hakama at shrine offices, occasionally donning formal attire for prayers or festivals. Moreover, I also hold a qualifying position as a clergy member since my family runs a shrine.[3]

Every time the statement "they are not clergy" is made regarding schoolteachers, I simultaneously feel a strange sense of persuasion and a sense of alienation, realizing that clergy are indeed often viewed as distinctly different from the general populace.