The Buddhist Association of China has decided to revoke the monastic status of Shi Yongxin, leader of the Shaolin Temple, the historic cradle of kung fu, following allegations of severe misconduct.
The move comes after an investigation into claims of embezzlement and violations of Buddhist principles.
On Sunday, the Shaolin Temple revealed that Shi is under scrutiny for allegedly misappropriating temple funds and assets, as well as engaging in improper relationships with multiple women, actions deemed a serious breach of Buddhist precepts.
The Buddhist Association, overseen by the Chinese Communist Party, condemned Shi’s behavior on Monday, stating it has “seriously damaged the Buddhist community’s reputation and the image of monks.”
The association announced it would strip Shi of his ordination certificate and expressed support for legal actions against him.
A multi-departmental government investigation is underway. Shi, often called the “CEO monk” for his role in globalizing the Shaolin brand, has faced prior criticism for blending spiritual leadership with business.
In 2015, similar allegations of misconduct were dismissed by the temple as false.Former monks have accused Shi of using temple-run company funds for personal benefit, owning luxury vehicles, and fathering children.
The scandal has sparked widespread attention, with a related hashtag amassing over 560 million views on Weibo.
Shi’s latest Weibo post reflects on purity and the present moment.At 59, Shi has led the Shaolin Temple since 1999, driving its global outreach through affiliated companies and promoting Chinese martial arts and Buddhism worldwide.
His commercial efforts, while successful, have drawn criticism for undermining the temple’s sacred traditions.
Established in AD 495, the Shaolin Temple remains a global symbol of Zen Buddhism and martial arts. Shi, a former vice-chairman of the Buddhist Association of China and a National People’s Congress representative, now faces a reckoning that could reshape his legacy.
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