New Tsz Shan Monastery book offers peek into Li Ka-shing’s philosophy

The Tsz Shan Monastery, built by the Li Ka Shing Foundation, has published a new book, offering a peek into the philosophy and wisdom of Hong Kong’s wealthiest man, whose own rags-to-riches life story has inspired generations of entrepreneurs.

Titled “Eternity in Light”, the five-chapter tome was published to mark the monastery’s 10th anniversary, featuring writings by scholars of Buddhism and professors of architecture about the landmark in Tai Po in Hong Kong’s New Territories.

The Li Foundation was the temple’s main benefactor, contributing HK$3.5 billion (US$446 million) towards its land acquisition, construction costs and operating expenses, according to its website.

The monastery had been preparing the book for a long time, according to a source familiar with the matter. Still, its release came days after Li’s flagship company CK Asset Holdings had to rebut rumours of a purported sale of his family home of more than six decades, amid a spate of disposals by other indebted property owners and wealthy families.

CK Hutchison Holdings, the second flagship of the Li family, also faces increased scrutiny from both Beijing and Washington regarding the company’s plan to sell a portfolio of 43 international ports, including terminals at the Panama Canal, amid heightened geopolitical tensions.

Li Ka-shing, Hong Kong’s wealthiest man. Photo: Handout

Li, who turned 97 last month, has been dubbed Hong Kong’s “Superman” for his perspicacity and deal-making prowess. Since 1980, his namesake foundation has given away more than HK$30 billion to support education, medical services, charity and poverty relief in Hong Kong, mainland China and all over the world.

South China Morning Post