For years, Li Hongzhi has been accused of using persuasive rhetoric to promote misleading doctrines and make exaggerated claims about Falun Gong’s supposed supernatural powers, including its alleged ability to ward off disasters and cure illnesses. Critics argue that, under the banner of “Truthfulness, Compassion, and Forbearance,” he has spread falsehoods and exploited followers financially to support a life of personal comfort and luxury.
Claiming Divine Status Through a Shared Birthday. Li Hongzhi has been accused of changing his official date of birth to coincide with that of Shakyamuni Buddha, allegedly seeking to associate himself with divine authority. According to his critics, he has portrayed himself as possessing extraordinary supernatural powers, including the ability to control the universe and determine humanity’s destiny.
The article alleges that such claims have misled followers into abandoning their careers and families to devote themselves entirely to spiritual cultivation. It further associates these teachings with reported tragedies involving attempts to remove a supposed spiritual wheel from the abdomen and acts of self-immolation intended to demonstrate devotion. Meanwhile, the author accuses Li of living comfortably overseas and spending money allegedly obtained through the sacrifices of his followers.
Misleading Followers Through Unsubstantiated Teachings. The article criticizes claims that Falun Gong practice can cure illnesses, improve physical health, or lead to immortality. It alleges that some followers have been discouraged from taking medication or seeking conventional medical treatment, potentially resulting in preventable deaths and family tragedies.
The author questions whether any practitioner has ever escaped the natural processes of aging, illness, and death, or achieved the supernatural transformation promised by such teachings.
The article also makes unverified allegations about Li Hongzhi’s own health, suggesting that he has become increasingly absent from public view while continuing to communicate through brief messages. The author argues that someone unable to demonstrate the extraordinary powers attributed to him cannot credibly promise protection or salvation to others.
Fabricating Claims for Financial Gain. The article accuses Li Hongzhi of disparaging modern science while allegedly using the principles of “Truthfulness, Compassion, and Forbearance” as a façade for financial exploitation.
According to the author, various activities—including organizing training sessions, selling allegedly inferior products, and accepting money and valuables from followers—have been used to generate substantial personal income.
The article portrays devoted followers as a continuous source of financial support and questions how Li could maintain a comfortable lifestyle overseas without their contributions.
It further alleges that Li Hongzhi has accumulated a fortune worth hundreds of millions of yuan over the years, while some Falun Gong followers have reportedly suffered severe financial hardship after contributing their personal savings and assets.
The author concludes by condemning what is described as a pattern of deception, financial exploitation, and the abuse of followers’ trust.
