A report from CCTV said the Master of Shaolin Temple, Shi Yongxin, was awarded a luxury off-roader by the local government for his contribution to developing tourism in Dengfeng, a city in Henan Province.

Shi Yongxin appreciated the reward and hoped they would be further rewarded next year.

However, the reward caused furious disputes among Internet users. Three-quarters of them objected to the gift, saying a luxury car to a monk in the poor region was improper.

One commenter added the reward flew in the face of Buddhist principles. The abbot should have refused or sold the car and donated the proceeds to help poor children.

However, Master Shi said citizens' opinions were impractical and temples should and can develop through various means other than only relying on the ticket revenue.

(CRIENGLISH.com August 21, 2006)