January 20, 2025
BuddhismQ&A
What is the Enbi?
Enbi is the pointed hat worn by a priest at a formal Nichiren Shu service.
The Chinese priest Tendai Daishi, who lived from 538-597, received an expensive piece of fabric from the Emperor during the winter. He then wrapped the fabric around his head. This is said to be the first use of head coverings for priests.
The Japanese Tendai priest Saicho lived from 767-822 during the Heian Period, 794-1185. In Japan, folklore says that Saicho received a hat from the Emperor. A portrait of Saicho shows him wearing one.
Nichiren Shonin did not wear a hat. He only wrapped a cloth around his head. Hats worn by Nichiren Shu priests were originally round. Over time, these changed to a pointed shape. These hats were worn for conducting solemn services. When the priest wore a shichijo, a seven-panel kesa, the enbi was a required accompaniment.
The enbi is made from a gold brocade material. It was first introduced from customs of the Chinese Imperial court. The nobles would wear crown-like hats with tightened strings stuck to the crown and the rest of the strings hanging down their back in two sheets. It was also used by the Zen school during the Song dynasty in China, 960-1279.
The name enbi, swallow’s tail, comes from how the tail part of the hat which hangs down looks like a swallow’s tail. Contrary to the etiquette of removing hats during a memorial service or sermon, a priest must not remove the enbi until they leave the prayer hall since this is part of their formal full attire.
We welcome readers’ questions about Buddhism and Nichiren Shonin. Please send us your questions by e-mail to editor-nichirenshunews@nichiren.or.jp or contact us through your local temple.