Shi Yinshun

Biography

Born in Xiangyang, Hubei in 1970 to a family of teachers, he graduated from the Department of Philosophy, Peking University. His mother died when he was six and then he was raised by his stepmother. He completed his doctor's degree in Buddhism from Chulalongkorn University.

In 2000 he received ordination as a monk under his teacher Benhuan, who was the 44th generation of Linji school.

In 2001 he became the abbot of Zhonghua Temple. On October 18, 2008, he became the abbot of Hongfa Temple, replacing Benhuan. On December 5, 2011, King of Thailand Bhumibol Adulyadej bestowed on him the title of "Maha Nayaka" (华僧大尊长).