ABSTRACT
This chapter explains the role of Shaolin and Shaolin kung fu in the construction of a national identity among the Chinese people. It points out that Shaolin carries at least two symbols of nationality for the Chinese – Chan Buddhism and martial arts. Both are regarded as national codes of traditional Chinese culture. As an important religious institution with more than 1,500 years of history, Shaolin has created a legacy of remembrance that serves the formation of the Chinese nation’s soul and spiritual principles. In the twenty-first century, facilitated by globalisation, and in particular portrayals in popular media, Shaolin is now attracting a worldwide audience.
