In a surprising clampdown, the Chinese government is tightening its grip on the digital activities of religious figures, particularly targeting monks who have embraced social media and modern technology.
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A new Code of Conduct for Online Behavior has been introduced, restricting monks from engaging in most online activities unless their temples or religious organizations hold specific licenses. The code explicitly warns against using artificial intelligence (AI) in sermons, conducting live streams, or creating short-form videos for platforms like Douyin, China’s version of TikTok.
The move comes in the wake of a scandal involving a Shaolin monk accused of embezzlement, which appears to have prompted authorities to scrutinize the growing intersection of religion and digital culture.
The Chinese Communist Party has long been wary of religion’s influence in the country, but outright bans have proven difficult - largely due to the economic clout of what’s known as China’s “temple economy.”
According to Meritco Group, a consulting firm, revenue from temple-related activities is projected to exceed 100 billion yuan ($14 billion) in 2025. For example, the company managing Mount Qingchengshan, a sacred Taoist site in Chengdu, has capitalized on this trend by selling Taoist prayer beads and other accessories via Douyin live streams, with some items fetching prices as high as 10,000 yuan ($1,400).
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However, the lavish lifestyles of some monks - reportedly including vacations in luxury hotels - have sparked discontent among authorities and the public. The Communist Party, rooted in ideals of modesty and collective welfare, views such displays of wealth as antithetical to its values. The new code is widely seen as a reminder to religious figures to tone down their rock-star-like behavior and align with stricter oversight.
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While the temple economy continues to thrive, the government’s latest measures signal a broader effort to control the narrative around religion in the digital age.
For monks accustomed to sharing spiritual teachings or cultural snippets online, the restrictions could significantly limit their reach. As China balances economic gains with ideological control, the clash between tradition, faith, and technology is becoming increasingly complex.
