Pro Gamer Monk Defends Video Gaming: 'It Doesn't Violate Buddhist Teachings,' Compares Counter-Strike to Chess

A senior Buddhist monk in China has become an online sensation after appearing as a "pro gamer priest" with a serious passion for video gaming, despite criticism that such activities may be inappropriate for the monastic life.

Monk Huayuan from Ming Jiao Temple in Hefei, Anhui Province, has been ordained for over 20 years. He began playing video games as an elementary school student in the early 2000s and is particularly skilled at Counter-Strike, a competitive first-person shooter. Through his exceptional abilities, he has reached the "Legendary Eagle Master" rank and has invested approximately 40,000 yuan (about 192,000 baht) in high-end computer equipment to develop his gaming skills.

Although he is a monk, his temple has neither banned nor officially endorsed gaming. Monk Huayuan emphasizes that his key boundary is avoiding addiction while maintaining religious discipline. He argues that the distinction between the virtual and real world is crucial.

He explains that "killing" in games is merely a game mechanic for skill development, comparable to defeating an opponent in chess, which doesn't violate Buddhist principles. He even poses the counter-argument that by the same logic, playing games where you save others should guarantee immediate entry to heaven.

Monk Huayuan believes gaming is a "positive activity" that provides opportunities for communication, collaboration, and developing understanding—all important skills for personal growth both worldly and spiritually. He grew up in Shanghai with his divorced mother and developed interest in Buddhism from childhood, though his family initially strongly opposed his monastic path.

He concludes that both gaming and Buddhism serve the same purpose: helping him understand himself better. Both require "concentration" and acceptance of life's impermanence, which is fundamental to mindful living.