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yesterday

China’s Buddhist Authority Revokes Shaolin Abbot’s Ordination After Multiagency Probe

The Buddhist Association of China canceled his ordination certificate in a rare move that highlights state scrutiny of religious figures

Buddhist abbot Shi Yongxin, a delegate of the National People's Congress (NPC), walks towards the Great Hall of the People for a plenary meeting of the NPC, China's parliament, in Beijing, China, March 4, 2016. REUTERS/Jason Lee/File Photo
The abbot of Shaolin Temple, Shi Yongxin, speaking at the famous temple in Henan province, on November 8, 2009.
Multiple agencies investigating Shaolin Temple abbot Shi Yongxin for alleged misconduct
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Overview

  • Shi Yongxin is under criminal investigation by several government departments for alleged misappropriation of project funds and temple assets
  • Temple authorities accuse him of maintaining improper relationships with multiple women and fathering at least one child in violation of Buddhist precepts
  • The revocation of his ordination certificate signals Beijing’s firm response to concerns over the commercialisation of the Shaolin Temple
  • Shi has served as abbot since 1999 and held leading roles in provincial and national Buddhist associations while expanding the temple’s business ventures
  • Officials say further findings from the state-supervised probe will be released in due course