The Role of Buddhist Monastic Education in China, 2012-2022: A Case Study of Lingdong Buddhist Academy
The Role of Buddhist Monastic Education in China, 2012-2022: A Case Study of Lingdong Buddhist Academy

Summary/Abstract: Background/purpose. Since the establishment of New China in 1949, traditional monastic education has played a pivotal role in Chinese Buddhism, encompassing cultural dissemination, social welfare, and environmental consciousness. This study rigorously examines Guangdong Buddhist monastic education of Lingdong College from 2012 to 2022, meticulously analyzing its developmental trajectory and transformations across distinct periods. Materials/methods. The research design employs an exploratory sequential mixed method to confirm and interpret the qualitative result. In the first phase, qualitative method, the data-gathering process involved conducting in-depth interviews and engaging in participant observation by scrutinising policies, students’ teacher qualifications, college employees and leaders of the Chaozhou Buddhist Association. In the second phase, a questionnaire was designed that was based on qualitative themes. A total of sixteen participants were interviewed during the study in the Guangdong Province, China, followed by a total of 355 participants for the quantitative stage. Results. This study proves that religious education towards curriculum diversification and innovative training methods plays an important role in influencing students’ Buddhist temple moral courage and scouting behaviour. Education and religion are possible to facilitate moral development among students; there is also a possibility that it will exacerbate the existing dichotomy between majority and minority in the religious field. Conclusion. Lingdong College’s trajectory lies at the intersection of tradition and innovation. By preserving the essence of Buddhist culture while adapting to societal needs, the college remains committed to shaping compassionate, informed, and socially conscious leaders for the ever-evolving world.

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