How to Join the Shaolin Temple
The Shaolin Temple is a Buddhist monastery in the People's Republic of China. Located in the Henan Province, the temple is one of the most famous religious institutions in the world. Becoming a monk at the Shaolin Temple requires years of dedication and intense study.
- Research the lifestyle and teachings of the Shaolin Temple. These monks concentrate on removing all distractions from their life in order to achieve enlightenment. This often involves celibacy, vegetarianism and isolation. Ensure you are able to conform to this lifestyle prior to seeking a place in the temple.
- Become a Buddhist. The principles of Zen Buddhism are the cornerstone of the Shaolin Temple's teachings, specifically Chan Buddhism. Contact a local religious organization that has a strong Buddhist community. Try to locate a community that practices the Buddhist principles of The Greater Vehicle or Mahayana; this is the branch that includes Zen Buddhism. Incorporate Buddhism into your daily life by practicing meditation, creating a Buddhist altar at your home, reading books about Buddhism and studying Buddhist scriptures.
- Learn Kung Fu, which is a martial arts discipline. Monks of the Shaolin Temple do not practice Kung Fu to learn how to fight others. Instead, these religious men use the discipline as a way to gain more control of their minds and bodies.
- Visit the Shaolin Temple. Meet with the monastery's abbot, who serves as the leader of the Shaolin Temple. He will ultimately decide if you are ready to study at the famed institution.