The Former Head of China’s Buddhist Association Faces Investigation
In a surprising twist that’s almost as dramatic as a monk chanting “Om” to the rhythm of a beat‑drop, the former abbot of Beijing’s Longquan Monastery, Xuecheng, has found himself under a criminal investigation after a flood of allegations surfaced.
What the Gaffers Said
- Six women are believed to have received explicit text messages from Xuecheng that danced between flirtation and intimidation.
- Monks plotted a 95‑page exposé that claims Xuecheng romanticized the “study” of Buddhism by offering “special training sessions” for these women.
- Several accounts claim the abbot coaxed or threatened the women to engage in sexual encounters, using the familiar words “we’re all in the same bowl” (very Buddhist).
- Financial mishandles: The monastery allegedly violated national financial regulations—think money-lending with a meditation twist.
The report flooded online last month, stirring up a storm. Xuecheng, who regrets the “damning effect” on your reputation, resigned following the accusations and after a formal meeting within the Buddhist Association of China.
National Religious Affairs Authority Texts the Verdict
Authorities confirmed the allegations, saying Xuecheng sent harassing messages, and they have already ignited a criminal probe. They’re also digging into the monastery’s financial records.
Social Media Silence
Xuecheng’s Weibo, once pulsing with millions of followers, went quiet as of August 1, when he posted a statement that effectively said, “No, that didn’t happen.” This has raised eyebrows and rumors that he might be silent for a good reason.
The #MeToo Movement in China
Unlike Western #MeToo, which sparks open debate, the Chinese iteration is more like a polite, sliding door that may close or open at the behest of authorities. Women have started speaking out, especially on university campuses, where the issue feels as acute as a bamboo slab in a temple hall.
However, the discussion is controlled: some posts are censored, others removed. It’s a subtle dance between the voices of victims and the bureaucratic rhythm of regulation.
The Monastery’s Tech‑savvy Flair
Longquan Monastery, perched on Beijing’s outskirts, made headlines last year by unveiling a two‑foot‑tall robot monk that dispenses mantras and karmic counseling—essentially a fusion of ancient tradition with modern robotics.
