Daozhang

Daozhang are Chinese Buddhist monastic administrators or abbots responsible for managing a monastery’s affairs, including spiritual guidance, community activities, and organizational tasks. They are senior monks who oversee daily operations, lead rituals, and ensure the monastic community functions smoothly. The role combines spiritual leadership with administrative duties, acting as a bridge between monks, laypeople, and the broader religious hierarchy within the Buddhist tradition. Their position reflects a balance of religious authority and practical management, vital for maintaining the monastery’s spiritual and social harmony.