It is [known](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shaolin_Monastery) that Shaolin monks practice a form of [Chan Buddhism](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chan_Buddhism) . It is also [known](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shaolin_Kung_Fu) that they practice their own form of martial arts. * What is the doctrinal justification for their practice of martial arts? * Additionally/alternatively, within the Shaolin view of Buddhism, are martial arts purported to have soteriological effect? * Lastly, as a bonus, are there any academic studies exploring the Shaolin doctrines? I found [an answer](https://buddhism.stackexchange.com/questions/9246/buddhist-shaolin-monks-and-their-practice) regarding their practices in general, but not about the doctrinal basis. Thanks.

Ive seen television programmes and videos of buddhist shaolin monks who perfom incredible techniques such as breaking iron bars with their heads, impaling themselves with spears, throwing needles through glasses windows etc. It was said that these monks create, harness and use Qi Energy which makes it possible for them to perform these techniques. I have two questions: - What is this Qi Energy? - Is it a strong and profound level of concentration like the Jhanas in Theravada Buddhism? Thank you for your time. _Click on photos for full size_ [](https://i.sstatic.net/o2w4o.jpg) [](https://i.sstatic.net/cOTtx.jpg)

I once saw a television program about Buddhist shaolin monks. They were extremely skilled in martial arts and begin their training as young as 3-4 years old. Their day consists of martial arts training and Buddhist practice. I was wondering about two things: - What Buddhist tradition do shaolin monks follow? - What kind of meditation do they practice? Thank you for your time. Lanka _Click on photos for full size_ [](https://i.sstatic.net/sJmiN.jpg) [](https://i.sstatic.net/3yEWN.jpg) [](https://i.sstatic.net/nKVrY.jpg) [](https://i.sstatic.net/BcOv5.png)