A short biography of Venerable Minghai

Venerable Minghai was born in 1968, in Qianjiang, Hubei Province. His interest in Buddhism began in 1989, and in 1990 he met Chan Master Jinghui, the direct disciple of the great Chan Master Empty Cloud. Venerable Minghai graduated in 1991 from Beijing University’s Department of Philosophy, and in September of 1992 received novice ordination from Chan Master Jinghui at Bailin Temple, in Zhaoxian, Hebei Province. He received the full vows of a Bhikshu in 1993 at White Horse Temple in Luoyang. For many years he has energetically participated in the restoration of Bailin Temple, and also organized many programs designed to further understanding and practice of the Dharma. In 2000, he inherited the title of the forty-fifth holder of the Linji lineage from Chan Master Jinghui. He is currently abbot of Bailin Temple, founded by Chan Master Zhaozhou, and vice-president of the Hebei Province Buddhist Association.