A message from Shi Yanming

My teaching is Kung Fu, which is based on traditional Shaolin Kung Fu. I hold a deep respect for the old Shaolin culture but sadly; it appears to be vanishing rapidly with the rise of its popularity in recent decades.

Ironically, while traditional Shaolin culture is disappearing, more and more people appear to be riding on its past success.  For example, more alleged Shaolin masters are appearing, especially in the media. For instance, my Temple name was given to me in 1997. In accordance with the Shaolin naming system, mine should be the only Shi Yanming of my generation, however there are more Shi Yanmings than myself.

I want to preserve Shaolin’s esteemed traditional culture so that it is not diluted or lost to commercialism. This is my duty, as well as my personal mission.

My effort to achieve this is to build a temple. This temple will not only be a home for Shaolin teachers such as myself, but also home for anyone who desires to learn traditional Shaolin culture. I envision this temple to be a spiritual home for all people. As a result, it will become a home for Shaolin culture itself. Once Shaolin is preserved in its purest form, it will allow more people to develop from its teachings in the future. I will try my hardest to see this journey through to its end, no matter how hard or long it may be.

I am certain that there are many people who also share this wish. They can be anyone, not just unsung, talented masters but also ordinary people who are deeply moved and inspired from the teachings of Shaolin. My wish is for all of us to unite together in this cause because without it, Shaolin culture may be lost.

Amituofu.