Short intro

This time we will review external martial arts or Shaolin Kung Fu. In previous part we have explained that in the 20^th century almost all kung fu styles were classified on external(Shaolin) or internal( Wudang).

Basic difference between two branches is method of generating power. In internal ones is the use of what the Chinese call “complete,” “unified” or “whole body” power (jengjing). This means the entire body is used as a singular unit with the muscles of the body in proper tone according to their function (relaxed, meaning neither too tense nor too slack). Power is generated with the body as a singular unit, and the various types of energies used are all generated from this unified power source. http://www.shenwu.com/Internal_VS_External.htm

Here is mindful focus on qi energy flow and each movement. All movements are supposed to come one after the other without breaks between two movements. The whole internal form is supposed to flow like river from its opening till closing. Moreover internal arts are considered as soft because they are not based so much on physical power, but on techniques how to block opponents strike and put him out of balance smooth and flowing moves and by explosive unpredictable sudden moves. . Under these principles function already mentioned before Tai Ji Quan, Tai Yi Wu Xing Quan, Xingyi Quan, Baguazhang and Xinyi Liuhe Bafa.

The external martial arts, although engaging the body as a whole in generating power sequentially, do not use the body as a complete unit as do the internal martial arts. The external styles primarily use “sectional power” (ju bu li), which is a primary reason they are classified apart from the internal arts. A variation of this sectional power in the external arts is the special development of one part of the body as a weapon (iron palm, iron broom, etc.). http://www.shenwu.com/Internal_VS_External.htm

They have fast and explosive strikes, with lack of continuity between moves. They tend to focus on each specific movement separately not on the performing whole form without interruption like in case of internal martial arts. External ones focus on physical power and although using techniques they use physical power against opponent highly. However this power is generated by power of mind and focus on present moment and qi still plays a lot of role in external martial arts.

However in internal ones we have explosive outbursts( fa jin) and line between external and internal division is thin. At some point internal ones become external and vice versa. Wugulun originally belongs to external branch known one but Wugulun has a lot of focus on internal qi cultivation and has flowing movements like internal ones. On another hand Chen Taiji, Tai He Quan, Tai Yi Wu Xing Quan and Xing Yi Quan belong to Wudang branch and are based mostly on neijia principles, but include more or less explosive movements.

Before we proceed it is improtant to mention that Shaolin Kung Fu derives name from Chan Buddhist Temple Shaolin ( located in Henan province) and Wudang Kung Fu from Wudangshan a sacred Taoist mountain( located in Hubei province). As explained in previous chapter waijia was developed under Buddhist influence and neijia under Taoist. In this brief review above we see how many common points both schools have and it should not surprise us since we know how much Taoism and Chan Buddhism were interrelated historically. Buddhism came from India to China and under influence of Taoism, Chan Buddhism was created. Moreover legendarily Zhang Sanfeng( legendary creator of Tai Ji Quan) before he went to Wudangshan and before he became Taoist was a Shaolin monk. It seems that both schools of kung fu have a lot of common points and are a product of amazing mixture of ancient thoughts. Now lets review biggest and most famous school of waijia- Shaolin Kung Fu. During review we will see how much neijia and waijia have actually in common. Maybe have different approaches, but core is the almost the same. We will see how Taoism and Chan Buddhism are deeply interrelated.

History of Shaolin temple and Shaolin Kung Fu

History of martial arts in China dates before semi legendary period of Xia Dynasty( 2100-1600BC). It is said that legendary Yellow Emperor brought martial techniques too. In Spring and Autumn Annals( 5century BC) there are division on soft and hard techniques. Here same as in case of Wudang martial arts, Taoist scholar Zhang Sanfeng and creation of Tai Ji Quan,( wwhat we wrote in previous part) line between legend and reality is thin. Traditionally it is considered that creator of Shaolin Kung Fu is person who has brought Chan(Zen) Buddhism to China, a Bodhidharma. However it is also mentioned often that his first disciples were already martial art experts. Maybe Bodhidharma has just conceptualized already existing martial arts and spiced them with Chan Buddhism. There are versions that he has never actually existed. There could have existed several styles and were conceptualized into Shaolin Kung Fu by several persons. Origins of Shaolin Kung Fu are blurry same as in case of Wudang Kung Fu what we wrote before.

But lets review most famous versions of legend and historical records. In year 480 Buddhahudra( Batuo in Chinese) legendarily came from India to China which was divided by several dynasties as it was turbulent period of Northern and Southern dynasties( 420-589). Batuo was given funds by emperor Xiaowen of Northern Wei dynasty to establish temple on Mount Songshan. Temple was named Shaolin after name Shaoshi forest ( part of Songshan). Batuo was its first abbot. It is in todays Henan province. In 534 Northern Wei fell and many temples were damaged including Shaolin.

Other records say that another Buddhist scholar Boddhidharma( Damo in Chinese) came either from India or Persia in 527 or even earlier to China and wanted to enter Shaolin temple. He was initially rejected and spent nine years meditating in cave above the temple. Damo was 28^th Patriarch of Buddhism and later became fist patriarch of Chan( Zen, Seon, Thien). There are records and records that he after 9 years was admitted at temple. Damo was emphasizing on meditation and that Buddhist knowledge is passed by teacher to disciple what he considers more important than learning from scripts. Damo became first patriarch of Chan at Shaolin Temple. His successor was master Huike who according to legend cut of his arm to prove his loyalty to Damo as Damo during his stay in cave has rejected to be teacher of Huike monk. Chan primarily emphasizes on meditation and in such way realizing your true nature( for more: https://chinainsightfactsandstories.wordpress.com/2017/01/22/religion-in-china/ ) It meant that disicples of Damo had to spend many hours meditating and in order to keep them fit Damo has developed exercises for their fitness. Some records say that monks soon have developed from these health exercise forms, martial forms for self defence. Other records say that Damo himself developed exercises that could keep monks fit but also forms that could enable them to defend themselves and temple in these unstable times. That’s how gradually Shaolin warrior monks have appeared. First and oldest Shaolin style is Luohan Quan( Arhat fist). There were developed many Luohan styles and all are classified under umbrella term Luohan Quan. Most famous and oldest is Luohan 18 hands. . In Buddhism Luohan( Arhat) are those who have achieved enligthement and nirvana. Legend says that Damo has observed Luohan statues and their postures and expressions developed into martial form. So we see deep interconnection of Buddhism and first Shaolin martial form. About death of Damo records are unclear.Some records say that Damo has died in cave where he has left in cave written Yijin Jing( manual, will be later about it)

BodhidharmaYoshitoshi1887 — Boddhidharma( Damo), by Yoshitoshi 1887,

During Tang dynasty( 618-907) Shaolin temple has enjoyed great respect from emperors. Empress Wu Zetian has visited it personally. There is stele which dates from 728 which says that Shaolin monks battled robbers in 610. Stele says that in 621 they have participated in Battle of Hulao. This was battle between Tang dynasty and rebellious general Wang Shichong who wanted to overthrow Tang.. Shaolin monks were also target of Wang Shichong and in this battle they have sided Li Shimin ,a son of first Tang emperor Gaozu. Wang was defeated. After some years Li Shimin became emperor Taizong of Tang dynasty and has called Shaolin to be supreme temple in China and supported learning exchanges between the imperial court, armies, and the Shaolin monks. Allegedly he has allowed monks to eat meat and use alcohol, but its unconfirmed.

There is record that in 7^th century , the Shaolin monk Dao Guang led 500 warrior monks into battle against pirates at the coast of South East China. The Shaolin Temple was so impressed that its grandmaster commissioned Dao Guang with the task of building the South Shaolin temple which was allegedly located in Fujian province.

In 841 Emperor Wuzong under Confucian influence started persecuting Buddhists and killing monks and destroying temples. However as he has respected his ancestor Li Shimin he has not allowed destruction of Shaolin.

In 1125 nearby Shaolin was build shrine devoted to Damo.

By end of 13^th century whole China fell under Mongol Yuan dynasty. Its first emperor Kublai Khan ordered that all Buddhist temples in China to be led by Shaolin temple. During Red Turban Rebellion(1351-1368) bandits have damaged Shaolin temple highly and looted it. It was rebellion initiated by White Lotus Sect against Yuan dynasty. During Ming dynasty(1368-1644) Shaolin temple has enjoyed good reputation and several Ming princes were admitted as monks there.

There are records from 1540s to the 1560s which say that pirates known as wokou raided China’s eastern and southeastern coasts on an unprecedented scale. Shaolin and other warrior monks took part in Emperor Jaijing’s campaings against pirates. Warrior monks participated in at least four battles: at the Gulf of Hangzhou in spring 1553 and in the Huangpu River delta at Wengjiagang in July 1553, Majiabang in spring 1554, and Taozhai in autumn 1555. The monks suffered their greatest defeat at Taozhai, where four of them fell in battle; their remains were buried under the Stūpa of the Four Heroic Monks at Mount She near Shanghai. The monks won their greatest victory at Wengjiagang when, 120 warrior monks led by the Shaolin monk Tianyuan defeated a group of pirates. Not all of the monks who fought at Wengjiagang were from Shaolin, and rivalries developed among them. Zheng chronicles say that there were monks from Wutaishan, Funju, and Hangzhou except from Shaolin. According to that source Tianyuan has defeated 8 monks who have challenged his command.

Old steles say that Shaolin monks except fighting with bare hands were very good in using staff.

In 1641 temple was sacked by Li Zicheng a rebel leader who has overthrown Ming dynasty. It has happened because Shaolin was on side of Ming dynasty. However Li Zicheng was unsuccessful to establish own dynasty and Manchu tribes from north east managed to conquer China and establish Qing dynasty

By end of 17^th or early 18^th century Shaolin temple was highly destroyed by Qing forces. At beginning Qing wanted to show more power and wanted to surpass any possible basis of resistance. Some records say that (possibly legendary ) South Shaolin temple was completely destroyed during this period. Records say that 5 fugitive monks have spread and developed other martial arts( such as Wing Chun, Hung Gar), but there are uncertainties whether they were from north or south Shaolin temple. In 1996 possible ruins of south Shaolin were discovered and in 2016 temple was restored. About existence of south Shaolin we will speak in next part.

By beginning or mid of 18^th century north Shaolin temple was renewed by Qing court and monk warriors were allowed again. It was like that because Qing court wanted to promote peace and harmony among all ethnicities living in China. Han Chinese were majority people and Manchu Qing dynasty knew that if it wants to rule over majority population it has to promote and keep their culture. As I wrote before there are allegations that Shaolin temple enjoyed more respect than Taoist Wudang school of Kung Fu during Qing dynasty, because Qing practiced Buddhism not Taoism, but its unconfirmed. There are records that Kaangxi emperor has given his calligraphy work as gift to Shaolin temple. Also its written that Qianlong Emperor has visited temple and wrote a poem about it, but later has banned them to practice martial arts so they did it in secret.

During 19^th century monks became notorious for eating meat, drinking alcohol and even hiring prostitutes. It is not known if its true or these were fake accusations by Qing court. There are allegations that Shaolin monks have taught Boxers martial arts a rebels who have organized rebellion between 1899 and 1900. https://www.thoughtco.com/history-of-the-shaolin-monks-195814

Largest destruction has occurred in 1928 when 90% of temple was completely burnt and its valuable library. It was done by general Shi Yousan who was initially KMT general, but has betrayed many of KMT generals. It was unstable period of civil war and warlords and temples were often used as covers and strategic points. Shi Yousan was burning temple for 40 days.

In 1934 Jin Jing Zhong( https://www.liveabout.com/history-style-guide-shaolin-kung-fu-2308257 ) wrote a book Training Methods of 72 Arts of Shaolin, otherwise temple and its arts could be completely forgotten.

When PRC was founded in 1949 CPC didn’t have much interest in temple which was almost completely destroyed. During Cultural Revolution there are allegations that Red Guards found only few monks who were jailed. However already in mid 1980ies when government started reforms and opening up interest in preserving culture was increased and attention came back to almost forgotten Shaolin temple. In 1982 was recorded movie about Shaolin( recorded in Hong Kong) starring Jet Li. Now the temple became famous again and not only government, but also various martial art associations across the world have invested money in its restoration. Temple was completely restored and Shaolin lineage renewed. Few remaining monks at temple were allowed to teach again and some other monks who left were invited to return and allowed to recruit new disciples. All other old people who were once monks were invited there to teach again. Today still Shaolin monks can become Chinese citizens and they are at the same time learning Chan Buddhism and Shaolin Kung Fu. However around temple itself in Dengfeng county there are many private non monastic schools which teach Chinese and foreigners Shaolin martial arts on same principles as monks do. Many owners of these schools were either former Shaolin monks or were taught by Shaolin monastic masters. Many tourists annually visit the temple.

Among authentic non monastic lineages is Wugulun lineage- It teaches several Shaolin styles in traditional way. This lineage has school not far from Shaolin Temple, teaching traditional Shaolin Kung Fu on basis of ChanWuYi concept. Initially they teach more internal soft side and than they move to harder side. Story is that there was monk Wu Gulun( 1831-1914) a first generation master of this lineage. He was monk at Shaolin temple and one of best masters and one that has achieved highest level in Shaolin Kung Fu- Xin Yi Ba. In 1869 when there were turbulent times in China he was sent by Shaolin abbot on special task. Wu Gulun was asked to leave monastic life and start a family and keep traditional knowledge in secret. He was asked to pass it only to his sons and in case if temple is destroyed and all monks get killed so there is someone in secular world who can return this knowledge to Shaolin when peaceful times come. When Wu Gulun died peaceful times were far. Since China is stable again his descendant Wu Nanfang teaches traditional Shaolin Kung Fu forms since beginning of 1990ies. Now non family members can apply for these classes too.

1024px-Pagoda_Forest1 — https://www.wikiwand.com/en/Pagoda_Forest_at_Shaolin_Temple

Before we proceed to the next part we should mention patron saint of Shaolin temple. We already spoke in previous part that patron saint of Wudang Taoist warrior monks is Xuanwu( magical god and patron of warriors). Steles say that Shaolin monks worshipped Vajrapani( in Chinese Jingangshou Pusa). Vajrapani is a Boddhisatva considered to be protector of Buddha himself. He became guardian of Shaolin temple. “In his book The Shaolin Monastery (2008), Prof. Meir Shahar notes Vajrapāni is the patron saint of the Shaolin Monastery. A short story appearing in Zhang Zhuo’s (660-741) Tang anthology shows how the deity had been venerated in the Monastery from at least the eighth century. It is an anecdotal story of how the Shaolin monk Sengchou (480-560) gained supernatural strength and fighting ability by praying to the Vajrapāni and being force-fed raw meat. Shaolin abbot Zuduan (1115–1167) erected a stele in his honor during the Song dynasty. It says that those who are compassionate will get increased their body strength.” https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vajrapani . “ Vajrapani is regarded as legendary creator of staff form.One of the many versions of a certain tale regarding his creation of the staff method takes place during the Yuan-era Red Turban Rebellion. Bandits lay siege to the monastery, but it is saved by a lowly kitchen worker wielding a long fire poker as a makeshift staff. He leaps into the oven and emerges as a monstrous giant big enough to stand astride both Mount Song and the imperial fort atop Mount Shaoshi (which are five miles apart). The bandits flee when they behold this staff-wielding titan. The Shaolin monks later realize that the kitchen worker was none other than the Kinnara King in disguise( Vajrapani). Shhahar notes the part of the kitchen worker story might have been based on the actual life of the monk Huineng (638-713): https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vajrapani

Main concepts and training

Chan Wu Yi

It is one of basic concepts which interconnects Chan Buddhism with martial arts. Shortened explanations from- http://nigerian.xiaolin-pai.org/treasure.html

Chan ( Zen) – it is training of spiritual heart, to be calm, peaceful, aware of self and others and true nature of reality, to be compassionate and help others. Following path of Buddha and having caring heart like his.
Wu is the natural movement of the external body — aimed at creating a healthy body and a strong qi energy. The understanding and mastering of Chan is the essential basis for practicing Wu.
Yi- medicine- the five elements – metal (lung, nose), wood (liver, eyes), water (kidney, ears), fire (heart, tongue), earth (spleen, mouth) — which are the basis of Chinese philosophy. Yi is the practice of creating health and strength in the internal organs. Yi has two aspects: keeping oneself healthy and helping others in this too.

Training

Basic skills( Jiben gong)- preparing student to boost his/her stamina, balance and martial moves. Basic moves are known as tongzi gong or childish skills which have 18 postures.
Power skills (qìgong): Qigong -Qigong meditation itself has nei( internal) stationary meditation, and external (wai) which is dynamic meditation and includes four-part exercise (si duan gong), eight-section brocade ( ba duan jin, type of qi gong, originates from Taoism and is practiced in Wudangshan schools). In previous part we wrote more about qi gong. Here is important Shaolin muscle-changing scripture (yi jin jing ), which we have already mentioned. This is manual of physical exercises which have to be coordinated with breath and qi energy. Yi Jin Jing exercises are based on already mentioned scripture which was legendarily left by Damo. There are accounts that this manual was made by Li Jing a Tang dynasty general, Song dynasty general Yue Fei or by Taoist priest Zining in 17th century. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GvQUttWLVWc\ There are also in this section 72 arts: These Include 36 soft and 36 hard exercises, which are known as soft and hard qigong.
Combat skills (quanfa)- barehand or weapon martial forms. Here belong kung fu forms that we will review now.

List of different Shaolin related martial arts

We will review styles that were created in Shaolin temple, created under influence of styles practiced at Shaolin temple or have influenced Shaolin temple styles. Not all of them are purely Shaolin styles by origin and many have Taoist influence and are hardly classified. But still they are more commonly related to Shaolin martial arts than to Wudang. Same as in previous part we have reviewed martial arts that were not strictly created on Wudangshan but are more close to Wudang/Taoist concepts. We will see that some of Wudang and Shaolin arts have same origin.

Luohan( Arhat) Quan( Fist)

There were developed many Luohan styles and all are classified under umbrella term Luohan Quan. Most famous and oldest is Luohan 18 hands. . In Buddhism Luohan( Arhat) are those who have achieved enligthement and nirvana. Legend says that Damo has observed Luohan statues and their postures and expressions and developed into martial form. Shaolin Luohan 18 hands and generally Luohan Quan are always praised as the root styles on which most the Shaolin Kung Fu styles and many other non-Shaolin external styles have been created. Luohan 18 hands has been oldest and most famous as representative of Shaolin Kung Fu. Luohan 18 hands uses mostly palms in its techniques. There are different versions of 18 hands of Luohan quan. One version( has 18 forms for the 18 Luohans, while there are other versions with 9 long forms which altogether represent 18 Luohan characters). As an estimation of the diversity, just notice that Shaolin monk Shi Degen (1914-1970) taught 3 different versions to 3 of his disciples. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Luohan_quan

There is also Shaolin Hua Quan Luohan 18 hands. It is style developed in Shandong province. It was later brought to Shaolin and was accepted as part of Shaolin practice. There is also Shaolin Luohan 108 methods of combat style. There is rare style Shaolin Luohan 18 Hands of Dengfeng area. It is taught in Dengfeng county in areas near Shaolin temple. There are Luohan styles in Zhejiang, Fujian, Sichuan provinces too. Fujian has 5 styles of Luohan quan.

Drunken Fist( Zui Quan)

No single drunken style. It is umbrella term for several styles that belong to Taoist or Buddhist Styles. We have mentioned in part 1 Taoist version of Drunken Fist. Buddhist one is related to Shaolin temple. According to one version of story when Li Shimin( Emperor Taizong of Tang) was helped by Shaolin monks to defeat rebel forces they were allowed to consume wine. Thus they used to practice drunk and developed drunk style, check section about history of Shaolin related to help to Li Shimin. Other story of creation is related to Song dynasty and martial artist Liu Qizan. He has killed person accidentally and went to search refuge and repentance in Shaolin. He was drinking all the time and when monks wanted to expel him he beat up 30 of them. After that Abbot praised his skills, has allowed him to stay in temple and has adopted new form based on his drunk moves. In even older Luohan Quan there is move of drunken Luohan as well.

Dragon styles

There are several dragon styles which are characterized by swaying, curving and smooth movements. Frequently, the feet remain in the same place, while Shen-Fa (body movement) is used to evade and immediately counter again. Defense and attack are often united in a single pattern. As hand forms the “dragon palm” is used for striking. Shaolin Travelling Dragon Sword is sword form of Shaolin. There are some southern Dragons styles which will be reviewed in next part. https://www.shaolin-wahnam-wien.at/kungfu-5-tiere-1-en.php

Heihu Quan( Black Tiger Fist)

It is famous as art from Shandong province, but it originates from Shaolin temple before being released. It has more emphasis on footwork than the southern Shaolin kung fu forms. . Moves included are acrobatic kicks, low, wide stances, and unique fist position (where the thumb is curled in the same manner as the other fingers, rather than wrapped around them). According to the Shaolin Grandmasters’ text the style is the single most external style in the Shaolin repertoire. However, saying the longer the martial artist practices, the more he or she will come to rely more on internal power and focus. Traditional lineage beyond Shaolin starts from Master Wang Zhenyuan in late 19^th century. https://ensomartialarts.com/china/black-tiger-kung-fu/

Northern Praying Mantis ( Tanglang quan)

Is mostly external but also has some internal substyles. Its fighting style involves the use of whip-like/circular motions to deflect direct attacks, which it follows up with precise attacks to the opponent’s vital spots, moves mimic the moves of praying mantis insect. Style is known for speed and combination of moves that block strikes and moves that strike back.

It has several styles

Seven Star Praying Mantis Boxing- combines elements of Hard and Soft methods, Long and Short attacks, internal and external principles.
Tai Ji Praying Mantis Boxing- Today this style is represented by two distinct lineages. The first one is that of Cui Shoushan and Wang Yushan and is based on Song Zide and Jiang Hualong’s Plum Blossom teachings in Laiyang, Shandong Province. It is popular in Laiyang, Yantai, Qingdao, Dalian, North America, Russia, France and Spain. The second lineage can be traced to Sun Yuanchang’s Plum Blossom, who was yet another disciple of Liang Xuexiang. Its best known progenitor is Zhao Zhu Xi, who is said to have taught (both directly and indirectly) thousands of students during his lifetime in Vietnam. Having Taiji concept in its name here we see again Taoist influence. .
Plum Blossom Praying Mantis Boxing- It it is widespread in Shandong Province, Jilin, Liaoning and South Korea. Though heavily influenced by Taiji Mantis of Cui Shoushan and Wang Yushan, Taiji Plum Blossom of Hao Family, Taiji Mantis of Zhao Zhuxi and Babu Mantis of Wei Xiaotang in the early 1900s.
Taiji Plum Blossom Praying Mantis Boxing- This style is, historically, a combination of two different lineages of Mantis: Taiji Praying Mantis and Plum Blossom Praying Mantis. This style is widespread in Yantai, Qingdao, Beijing, Dalian, Harbin, etc.
Six Harmony Praying Mantis Boxing- Known as the ‘softest’ or most ‘internal’ of the Praying Mantis styles, Six Harmony was passed down by Ding Zicheng , whose students taught in Shandong Province as well as Chinese Taiwan. Six Harmony Praying Mantis has a very different techniques found in other Praying Mantis styles.
Eight Step Praying Mantis Boxing- This style was originally conceived by Jiang Hua Long and was further refined by his principle disciple of the style, Feng Huanyi, which was passed down by his disciple Wei Xiaotang in Taiwan.

Other, less widespread styles include:

Shiny Board Praying Mantis Boxing
Long Fist Praying Mantis Boxing- under influence of Long Fist( Changquan). The style is taught in Taiwan by students of master Gao Dao Shen.
Throwing Hand Praying Mantis-. This style was passed down by Bao Guangying from Shandong Province. He taught in Hong Kong and Guangzhou.
Secret Gate Praying Mantis Boxing- This style was passed down by Zhang Dekui in Taiwan and is a variation of Taiji Mantis.
Ma Family Praying Mantis Boxing- Passed down by Ma Hei Long in Northern China. His top student Ma Qing Long was the first to teach the style to the public.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Northern_Praying_Mantis,

Northern praying mantis originates from Shandong province from Song dynasty( 960-1279) period. According to legend Shaolin abbot Fu Ju has invited creator of this style Wang Lang and 17 masters of other Kung Fu styles to help him improve Shaolin martial arts. Among others there were invited masters of Tongbeiquan( internal martial art), Changquan and others. According to some sources Fu Ju has collected all this styles into 1 manual Mishou( secret hands) and was passed to Taoist monk Shen Xiao. During Qing dynasty manual was lost. Some sources say that Wang Lang has lived during Ming dynasty( 1368-1644).

This is example of martial arts which do not originate from Shaolin but were or are practiced at Shaolin and generally are classified as external. However we see that some of Praying Mantis styles include name Taiji what is Taoist concept of Supreme Ultimate and Tai Ji Quan is a Taoist martial art( check part 1 for more info). Here we see again diversity of Chinese martial arts and how different Buddhist and Taoist concepts are interconnected. Here we see that Shaolin influenced development of some arts and vice versa. It is same case as Wudang school influenced some internal styles and vice versa, what we wrote in part 1. We also see how Taoist and Buddhist arts influenced each other. Arts such as this one and Changquan were developed mostly by non monastic families and passed down to sons or other disciples of virtue who were not family members. Similarly like some styles of Tai Ji Quan and other internal arts from part 1. There is also Southern Praying Mantis, which isn’t linked to northern one, but it will be reviewed in part 3.

Plum Blossom Fist( Meihuaquan)

There is no single Meihuaquan there are many northern and southern and Emei style. Southern will be reviewed in part 3 and Emei in part 4. Its unclear whether they originate from Shaolin temple. Some of the styles are

Ganzhi wushi meihuazhuang (Plum-blossom Pillars of Stems and Branches) is a branch of Meihuaquan. The eighth-generation master of this style, Zhang Congfu created a new kind of practise called Xiaojia (Little Frame) as opposed to the older style known as Dajia (Big Frame). This style of Meihuaquan releases and strengthens the flow of energy to increase concentration of the mind.. The basic training methods of Meihuaquan are simple, strong, relaxed, and highly adaptable.
“Meihuazhuang” (“pillars of plum-blossom”) is a shortened form of “ganzhi wushi meihuazhuang. Meihuazhuang and Ganzhi Wushi Meihuazhuang acc to some records has more than a thousand-year history. This style originates with monks and belongs to the Kunlun branch of Chinese martial arts.
Baijiazhi Meihuaquan- Baijiazhi Meihuaquan (Bai-family Branch of Plum-blossom Boxing) is a Meihuaquan practised in the southwest part of Shandong Province. It was founded by Bai Jindou, , a ninth generation master of Plum Blossom Boxing.
Leijia Meihuaquan- Leijia Meihuaquan (is a branch of Meihuaquan that derives its name from having been practiced near Leijiacun village and spreading to the surrounding area. This branch is clearly related to the Ganzhi Wushi Meihuazhuang, as it identifies in its lineage Zhang Sansheng (or Zhang Zhenshu a second generation master of Wushu Meihuazhuang). This type of Meihuaquan differs from the Ganzhi Wushi Meihuazhuang and the Baijiazhi in having only four postures rather than the usual five.
Wuzi Meihuaquan- Wuzi Meihuaquan- is a shortened form of Sun Wuzi Chuanxin Meihuaquan (Plum Blossom Boxing Piercing the Heart of Sun Wuzi), Disciples of this school believe it was founded by Sun Zi, also known as Sun Wuzi.
Luodi Meihuaquan- Luodi Meihuaquan (Plum-blossom Boxing on Ground) is a generic name for Meihuaquan, but can indicate a branch that was taught by Li Zhenting in Peixian. The core of this system is Luodi Meihuaquan Bajiao (, Eight Angles of Plum Blossom Boxing on Ground). Meishanquan
Meishanquan, Plum Mountain Boxing- , also, is a style created during the Song dynasty in Meishan county of Hunan.
Shaolin Meihuaquan- There are two sets named Shaolin meihuaquan (Xiao Meihuaquan (Little Plum-blossom Fist) and Da Meihuaquan (Big Plum-blossom Fist). Practiced in Shaolin temple and surrounding areas.

Except bare hands there are used swords, sabre and spears. We also have styles that were created on basis of Northern Praying Mantis and Meihuquan with Taiji principles, about which we wrote in section above which was about Northern Praying Mantis. About origins of Meihuaquan there are uncertanities. Chan Dsu Yao(https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Meihuaquan#Emei_Meihuaquan ) a former teacher of Meihuquan says that there are records that it originates from Shaolin temple, but also that it is a art that is quintessence of Shaolin Kung Fu and Taiji Quan. Some records say that it initially belonged to semi legendary Kunlun branch of Kung Fu. There are legends that say that Meihua dates to time of Western Zhou dynasty( 11^th century BC) and that when Master Zhang Sansheng has showed it in public there were 100 generations before him. During the Han Dynasty (206 BC – 220 AD), Mei hua quan was originally only known as Fuziquan, or father-son fist, as it was literally taught only by fathers to sons and thus was inherited patrilineally. Eventually, some masters started to teach to non-family members, although the acceptance of students was governed by strict rules. http://kungfuamerica.com/Mei-hua-quan/ However its unknown whether that Fuziquan is really an Meihuaquan or it was name for all martial arts taught in that way. Some styles of Meihuaquan were used by Boxers during Boxer rebellion.

Shequan( Snake Fist)

There is northern and southern snake style. Here we speak about northern one- Snake style is based on whipping and rattling power. The stancework is fluid in order to maximize the whipping potential of any movement. Since breath is important to any movement of the spine and ribs, snake style is considered one of the main styles which eventually led to internal training. Swords and spears are frequently used. Snake style generally aims for weak points of the human body, such as the eyes, groin and joints. It was developed from neigong( internal practice, check part 1) and from Luohan style. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Snake_Kung_Fu

ChangQuan( Long Fist)

It is hard fighting style good for long range fighting thanks to widespread using of kicks.

The core of Changquan/Long Fist was developed in the 10th century by Zhao Kuangyin, founding Emperor of the Song dynasty( 960-1279), known as Emperor Taizu of Song( 927-976). His style was called Taizu Chang Quan, which means Emperor Taizuu Long Fist. In semi-legendary “classic” writings transmitted by Tai Ji Quan‘s Yang family, that martial art is referred to by the name Chángquán in one of the received texts. These texts can only be reliably dated to the second half of the 19th century.

Xin Yi Ba

Seen as highest level of mastery in Shaolin Kung Fu. It is concept about which is little known. It was for centuries available only to those of highest virtue and best martial skills. There are 12 forms. The forms are similar in that each uses the whole body, and different in that each form develops a specific part of the body to improve the function of that area and bring out its highest potential. Each of the twelve forms are the synchronisation of several other Kung Fu forms. All twelve forms can be further condensed into only one, the first form of the twelve: an embodiment of the integration of life. Xin Yi Ba is a practice to directly understand the laws of existence. The intention of Xin Yi Ba is to bring one’s whole life into a state of harmony, discover one’s true self nature. http://www.gulunkungfu.com/wsxy/1084.html Xin Yi Ba has same origin as internal martial art Xing Yi Quan about which we wrote in part 1 about internal arts. There are several stories of origin of Xing Yi Quan. One is that it was created by Damo or by Song dynasty general Yue Fei(who made this art on basis of several other martial arts, possibly from Shaolin). There is story that Ji Longfeng(1588-1662) from Shanxi province has created Xing Yi Quan (at that time still Xin Yi Quan-heart intention boxing) after he has learnt various arts from Shaolin temple. There are speculations on issue whether he has taught monks Xin Yi Quan or they have taught this art to him. It remains unclear. Its just clear that after Ji Longfeng there were created arts which went towards internal/Taoist direction, check first text. Its also clear that creation of this art has something to do with Shaolin since we see several stories relate it to this temple. And moreover we see that at Shaolin Xinyi Ba is highest concept of perfection in martial arts which consists of 12 forms. From Shaolin perspective Xing Yi related martial arts are external and explosive and from Taoist perspective they are internal arts with many explosive movements and energy outbursts.

Some other Shaolin related arts are , Pao Quan( explosive style), Shaolin Tongbeiquan( there is Taoist Tonbgeiquan, check text 1), Baijiquan( also practiced in Wudang schools, check first text), Vajrapani style, Flood style( Hong Quan) and many others.

https://smabloggers.com/2014/11/22/the-origins-and-lineage-of-shaolin-wugulun-kung-fu/ https://www.studymartialarts.org/blog/the-origins-of-shaolin-wugulun-kung-fu http://www.gulunkungfu.com/glqf/1083.html

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Luohan_quan

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shaolin_Kung_Fu

https://www.thoughtco.com/history-of-the-shaolin-monks-195814

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bodhidharma#Nine_years_of_wall-gazing

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shaolin_Monastery

https://mastergohring.com/history-of-shaolin-kung-fu-austin.htm

https://www.liveabout.com/history-style-guide-shaolin-kung-fu-2308257

https://beinganomad.com/south-shaolin-temple-1/

https://www.thoughtco.com/history-of-the-shaolin-monks-195814

http://nigerian.xiaolin-pai.org/treasure.html

http://www.shaolinlohan.com/curriculum