old monk; self-reference of old monk
Meanings
2 senses · 6 examplesnoun
old monk; elderly Buddhist monk
literaryA respectful term for an elderly Buddhist monk. Primarily used in written Chinese, religious texts, or historical/wuxia contexts.
An old white-bearded monk lives in the temple.
May I ask you, old monk, how much farther is it to Shaolin Temple from here?
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This old monk has practiced meditation in the mountains for forty years.
pronoun
this old monk (self-reference)
literaryA humble self-reference used by elderly Buddhist monks when speaking to others. Similar to 'this poor monk' (贫僧) but specifically emphasizes advanced age.
This old monk has been in retreat here for many years, paying no attention to worldly affairs.
You have come from afar, benefactor; this old monk has failed to welcome you properly.
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This old monk is too advanced in years to endure a long journey.