Quotable

I like the peaceful life here, which makes me happy indeed. I first chose Shaolin because of its kung fu, but I am also inspired here to pursue further education."

Shi Yanzheng, a monk at Shaolin Temple in Henan province said about receiving an offer from the University of Hong Kong to begin studying toward a doctoral degree in Buddhism on Sept 1. The 29-year-old has already studied for eight years and speaks fluent English. Shi Yongxin, the temple's abbot, said there are 300 monks at Shaolin Temple, about half of whom are younger than 35. Most of them study religion, philosophy and other subjects, he said, and it is not unusual for a monk to earn a doctoral degree.