Shi Yong

Shi Yong (釋永), frequently romanized as Shi Yong, is a Buddhist monastic name, specifically a Dharma name (法名) within the Chan Buddhist tradition. It is commonly associated with abbots of the Shaolin Monastery in China, often passed down to the succeeding abbot.

The name is composed of two Chinese characters:

• 釋 (Shì): This character is almost universally used as the first part of a monastic name for ordained Buddhist monks and nuns. It derives from Śākya, the clan name of Siddhartha Gautama, the historical Buddha. Thus, it signifies membership within the Buddhist monastic order and lineage tracing back to the Buddha.

• 永 (Yǒng): This character translates to "eternal," "perpetual," "forever," or "long-lasting." In the context of a Dharma name, it typically carries the aspirational meaning of embodying the Buddha's teachings enduringly.

The full name, therefore, expresses a commitment to upholding and propagating the teachings of Buddhism in a lasting manner, inheriting the legacy of the Buddha and the Shaolin tradition. While individual monks may have personal names given by their families, the Shi Yong Dharma name signifies their identity within the monastic order and their responsibilities to the Dharma. The name is commonly bestowed upon a select individual who is next in line to lead the Shaolin Temple.