In Ninghai County, Ningbo City, located in China’s eastern Zhejiang Province, an extraordinary trio has captured the hearts of many—a monkey named Xing Xing, an elderly Buddhist nun, and a monk share a unique bond at the Yanghu Temple.
Xing Xing, whose name means “Star” in Chinese, is a Tibetan macaque who has lived at the temple for over 15 years. Missing an arm due to a past injury, she first arrived at the temple after escaping a difficult life. Originally part of a circus, she was later bought by a villager and released onto Daliang Mountain. After losing her arm in a wild boar trap, she found her way to the temple, where the monk helped remove a collar from her neck and offered her a safe haven.
Every morning, Xing Xing begins her day with a meal at the nun’s door, returning to the mountain as night falls. Living alongside the two elderly caretakers, she has developed human-like qualities. She skillfully shells peanuts and sunflower seeds and often mimics the serene contemplation of the monk and nun, gazing at the distant mountains from her favorite stone basin.
Despite her close relationship with the monk and nun, Xing Xing remains a wild animal at heart. She can become defensive if she feels threatened or startled, something that sometimes surprises visitors. Understanding her nature, the monk and nun ensure that tourists keep a respectful distance, allowing Xing Xing to feel comfortable in her sanctuary.
This heartwarming story of companionship across species highlights the profound connections that can exist between humans and animals. Xing Xing’s life at the Yanghu Temple is a testament to compassion and coexistence, resonating deeply with all who hear her story.
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Bonds beyond species: A nun, a monk and a monkey share a temple
cgtn.com
