Shaolin Temple Abbot Under Investigation for Embezzlement and Misconduct
Shaolin Temple Abbot Under Investigation for Embezzlement and Misconduct
The renowned Shaolin Temple, China’s most popular Buddhist monastery, has officially confirmed that its abbot, Shi Yongxin, is under a formal investigation. The inquiry, which involves multiple government departments, centers on serious allegations of embezzlement, misuse of temple funds, and breaches of Buddhist discipline.
According to a statement released on the temple’s official WeChat account, Shi Yongxin is suspected of “misappropriation and embezzlement of project funds and temple assets.” Furthermore, the notice levels accusations of long-term relationships with multiple women and fathering at least one child, actions deemed both criminal under Chinese law and a violation of strict Buddhist monastic codes. Authorities have indicated that the findings of this multi-agency investigation will be made public “in due course.”
Shi Yongxin, whose birth name is Liu Yingcheng, joined the Henan-based temple in 1981 and ascended to the position of abbot in 1999. He has long been a controversial figure, famously earning the moniker “CEO monk” for his significant role in transforming the 1,500-year-old spiritual institution into a global commercial enterprise, complete with kung fu shows and branded merchandise. While this strategy undeniably boosted the temple’s international profile, it has also drawn considerable criticism for blurring the lines between religious practice and business interests.
Past allegations against the abbot, including claims of fathering children and financial impropriety, surfaced around 2015. Although a provincial inquiry reportedly cleared him of wrongdoing in 2016, the current investigation reopens scrutiny into his conduct. Authorities have, however, dismissed recent unverified online claims that Shi Yongxin was apprehended while attempting to flee to the United States.
The Shaolin Temple’s global renown, partly amplified by its portrayal in iconic films such as Jet Li’s 1982 classic “The Shaolin Temple,” ensures that this investigation will draw significant international attention.
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