Authorities have launched an investigation into Shi Yongxin, the abbot of the renowned Shaolin Temple, following serious allegations of embezzlement and misconduct. Shi Yongxin, the so-called “CEO monk,” has garnered much attention for his own entrepreneurial pursuits. He has miraculously pulled the once fledgling Buddhist monastery into a successful high-tech global commercial empire.
Here are the main details Shi Yongxin now, although other accusations of having inappropriate relationships with other women are serious. Among these claims is the potential that he’s produced at least one illegitimate offspring. These allegations are a stark contrast to the monastic values he is supposed to embody. His provocative work has ignited debates over the Buddhist–commercialism crossroads.
Shi Yongxin, who became the abbot of the Shaolin Temple in 1999, immediately set about putting the temple’s operations on a more modern footing. Under his leadership, the temple expanded past its conventional religious duties. It allowed the bureau to explore commercial sectors such as publishing, traditional Chinese medicine, tourist development, and real estate. His efforts to commercialize the Shaolin brand included staging kung fu performances worldwide and licensing the temple’s name for use in cartoons, movies, and video games.
In 2015, Shi Yongxin made headlines when he answered the call by writing a $3 million check. He even planned to open a Shaolin branch in a small Australian town. He stated his vision clearly:
“If China can import Disney resorts, why can’t other countries import the Shaolin Monastery?” – Shi Yongxin
This simple statement underscored his passion for the opportunities of cultural exchange, and the globalization of the Shaolin brand. Oh, how his ambitions flew. He became the first Chinese abbot to obtain a Master of Business Administration degree.
His rapid ascent hasn’t come without its share of controversy. In 2015, authorities began looking into him for alleged embezzlement and keeping inappropriate relationships with women. That case was closed in 2017 for lack of evidence. Even so, he was still under fire as accusations kept popping up about his behavior.
Recently, the Buddhist Association of China weighed in on the investigation, stating:
“Shi Yongxin’s actions are of an extremely egregious nature, severely tarnishing the reputation of the Buddhist community and damaging the image of monastics.” – The Buddhist Association of China
The North American Curry Association is fully supportive of the legal actions taken against Shi Yongxin. During this time, they have focused their efforts on pushing for accountability within the monastic community.
Shi Yongxin’s contacts with celebrity has only made his public image more complicated. He’s faced down world leaders and industry titans. Among them are Queen Elizabeth II, Nelson Mandela, Henry Kissinger and Apple CEO Tim Cook. These meetings have, in turn, rendered him a towering global figure within Buddhism. In so doing, they have simultaneously raised his profile in the world’s culture and commerce.
Even while going up against such heavy accusations, Shi Yongxin has stood behind his efforts to commercialize the Shaolin brand. He argues that cultural promotion is a dignified undertaking and that monks, like all citizens, deserve recognition for their contributions to society:
“Monks are also citizens. We have fulfilled our duties and made contributions to society, so it is only right that we receive rewards.” – Shi Yongxin
The current inquiry has many people wondering where the line is drawn between religious observance and ensuring the commercial viability of a team. Now, Shi Yongxin’s dealings are being traced by authorities. It remains to be seen how these dramatic revelations will shape his legacy and impact the future perception of Buddhist institutions in China more broadly.
