Shaolin Temple Abbot Shi Yongxin Photo: VCG

The Buddhist association in Central China's Henan Province has vowed to abide by the law and regulations and maintain a pure heart and uphold the precepts, following news that Shi Yongxin, the former abbot of the renowned Shaolin Temple who is currently under investigation by multiple departments, is suspected of criminal offenses and has seriously violated Buddhist precepts, according to an article published on the WeChat account of the Ethnic and Religious Affairs Commission of Henan Province on Thursday.

Shi (birth name Liu Yingcheng) is suspected of criminal offenses, including embezzlement and misappropriation of project funds and temple assets. He also allegedly violated Buddhist precepts by maintaining improper relationships with multiple women and fathering at least one illegitimate child, the article said.

As a longtime abbot of Shaolin Temple, Shi was expected to focus on spiritual practice, serve as a role model, uphold precepts, promote Buddhist teachings, and preserve the temple's purity. Instead, the article said, he disregarded the laws and Buddhist regulations, indulged in personal desires for fame and profit, acted recklessly, repeatedly crossed ethical boundaries, and betrayed the traditional values of a true monk.

Shi's misconduct has had a profoundly negative impact. It has not only ruined his own spiritual integrity and harmed the sincere faith of the Buddhist community but has also eroded the healthy fabric of Buddhism and affected the positive image of Henan Province, the article said. Due to his misconduct and failure to uphold ethical standards, he has brought upon himself the consequences. He has been removed from his position as abbot of Shaolin Temple, and his ordination certificate revoked, according to the article.

The Henan association expressed firm support for the lawful handling of Shi's case. It leads the entire Buddhist community in the province to engage in deep reflection and vigilance, draw lessons, and make thorough corrections in line with standards, according to the article.

The association vowed to guide the Buddhist community to protect the precepts as they would protect their own eyes, enhance religious cultivation, and uphold moral integrity. This will allow Buddhism to return to its essence of listening, contemplating, practicing, and benefiting all beings. It will also help maintain a rich atmosphere of clarity, purity, and dignity within the Buddhist community, it said.

Henan Province was one of the earliest regions where Buddhism spread, and Shaolin Temple is a renowned ancestral home of Zen Buddhism in China and abroad, the article said.

Shaolin Temple is also internationally renowned for its long-standing kung fu tradition. 

Global Times