Journey to the West

Chapter 1: Introduction to the Background

"Journey to the West" (西游记) is one of the most celebrated classical novels in Chinese literature, written in the 16th century during the Ming dynasty by Wu Cheng'en. The novel is a combination of Chinese folklore, mythology, religion (mainly Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism), and historical events. It tells the story of the monk Xuanzang (also known as Tripitaka) and his pilgrimage to the Western Regions (India) to obtain sacred Buddhist scriptures. The journey symbolizes the quest for enlightenment and the overcoming of worldly obstacles.

The novel is deeply embedded in Chinese culture and has influenced countless works of art, including literature, theater, film, and television. Understanding "Journey to the West" gives you insight into Chinese values, beliefs, and the rich tapestry of myth and legend that shapes the culture.

Chapter 2: Xuanzang's Mission and the Recruitment of Disciples

After Sun Wukong’s imprisonment, the story shifts to the Tang dynasty, where Emperor Taizong dreams of a way to atone for the souls of the dead. He is advised to send a pilgrim to the Western Regions to retrieve sacred Buddhist scriptures that can bring enlightenment and salvation to the people. The monk Xuanzang is chosen for this important mission, representing not just himself but the spiritual aspirations of the entire nation.

Xuanzang is a symbol of purity, devotion, and unwavering faith. He embarks on his journey with a heavy heart, knowing the dangers that lie ahead. As he travels westward, he encounters various supernatural challenges, which test his resolve and faith. However, he is also destined to find three powerful protectors who will aid him on his journey.

The Release of Sun Wukong

The first and most significant protector Xuanzang encounters is Sun Wukong, the Monkey King. After being imprisoned under the mountain for 500 years, Sun Wukong is finally released by the Bodhisattva Guanyin, who sees the potential for his redemption through serving Xuanzang. She places a magical golden headband on Sun Wukong’s head, which Xuanzang can tighten with a special chant, causing the Monkey King unbearable pain. This ensures Sun Wukong’s obedience and marks the beginning of his path to redemption.

Sun Wukong, although initially reluctant, agrees to serve Xuanzang as his disciple. His mischievous nature, combined with his immense power, makes him both a valuable ally and a source of constant trouble. However, his loyalty to Xuanzang grows as they face numerous challenges together.

Zhu Bajie Joins the Journey

The second disciple Xuanzang acquires is Zhu Bajie, or Pigsy, who was once a heavenly marshal. Due to his lustful behavior, he was banished to Earth and reincarnated as a part-human, part-pig creature. Zhu Bajie’s character is a mix of laziness, greed, and good-natured humor, often providing comic relief in the story.

Despite his flaws, Zhu Bajie possesses significant strength and martial skills, making him a useful companion. His interactions with Sun Wukong often highlight the contrast between Sun Wukong’s sharp wit and Zhu Bajie’s more simple-minded and earthly desires. This dynamic adds depth to the story, illustrating the complexities of human nature.

The Recruitment of Sha Wujing

The final disciple Xuanzang recruits is Sha Wujing, also known as Sandy. A former celestial general, Sha Wujing was punished and banished to Earth, where he became a river demon. Unlike Sun Wukong and Zhu Bajie, Sha Wujing is humble, loyal, and hardworking, often serving as the group's backbone. His character embodies patience and perseverance, traits that are crucial for the success of their mission.

Sha Wujing's backstory is less dramatic than his companions, but his quiet strength and dedication make him an essential member of the team. He provides a stabilizing influence, often mediating conflicts between Sun Wukong and Zhu Bajie.

The White Dragon Horse

As they journey further, Xuanzang acquires a fourth companion, the White Dragon Horse. This character was originally a dragon prince who was transformed into a horse as punishment for causing trouble in Heaven. He becomes Xuanzang's steed, carrying him throughout the journey. Though he rarely speaks, the White Dragon Horse is a loyal companion who represents the virtues of humility and service.

Chapter 3: The Adventures and Trials Along the Journey

With his disciples by his side, Xuanzang continues his perilous journey to the West. The road is fraught with danger, as they must pass through treacherous terrains, including mountains, rivers, deserts, and forests. Along the way, they encounter a variety of demons, monsters, and spirits, many of whom desire to capture Xuanzang and consume him, believing his flesh will grant them immortality.

Throughout their journey, Tang Sanzang and his disciples face a series of 81 challenges or "difficulties" that test their perseverance, wisdom, and faith. These difficulties are a mix of supernatural battles, moral trials, and physical hardships. Each one serves to teach the characters—and by extension, the readers—important lessons about virtue, patience, and the human spirit.

Notable Adventures

1. 金蝉遭贬 (Tang Seng's Past Life and Downfall)

Tang Seng's previous life was as the disciple of the Buddha, known as Jin Chanzi. Due to his disrespect for Buddhism, he was demoted and reincarnated as a human. This difficulty illustrates the consequence of his past actions and the beginning of his new life.

2. 出胎几杀 (Narrow Escape from Death After Birth)

After Tang Seng was born, his parents were murdered, and he narrowly escaped being killed himself. This challenge depicts the dangerous circumstances surrounding his early life and the attempt to protect him from the threats posed by demons.

3. 满月抛江 (Thrown into the River at Full Moon)

At the age of one month, Tang Seng was thrown into a river by his mother. This drastic action was taken to protect him from demonic threats, and he was fortunately rescued by kind-hearted individuals.

4. 寻亲报冤 (Seeking Revenge for His Family)

As Tang Seng grew older, he embarked on a quest to avenge his parents' death. He uncovered the truth behind their murder and sought justice, facing numerous challenges and obstacles along the way.

5. 出城逢虎 (Encountering a Tiger Demon Outside the City)

Upon leaving his hometown, Tang Seng encountered a tiger demon that attempted to obstruct his journey. This encounter highlighted the perils he faced while traveling and his determination to overcome these dangers.

6. 落坑折从 (Falling into a Pit with His Companions)

Tang Seng and his companions fell into a pit and were captured by demons. This difficulty illustrates the danger of their journey and their struggle to escape from the clutches of the demonic creatures.

7. 双叉岭上 (Meeting a Fierce Tiger on Double-Fork Ridge)

On Double-Fork Ridge, Tang Seng encountered a fierce tiger but was saved by Liu Boqin. This trial represents the physical dangers and the unexpected aid from allies encountered during their journey.

8. 两界山头 (Meeting Sun Wukong on Mount Two Worlds)

On Mount Two Worlds, Tang Seng met Sun Wukong and accepted him as a disciple. This significant event marked the beginning of Sun Wukong’s role as Tang Seng’s protector and companion on the journey.

9. 陡涧换马 (Exchanging the Horse in the Steep Gorge)

The white horse was eaten by the Little White Dragon, but Guanyin Bodhisattva transformed the Little White Dragon into a white horse. This difficulty illustrates the magical interventions that aided Tang Seng's journey.

10. 夜被火烧 (Fire Disaster at Guanyin Temple)

Tang Seng encountered a fire disaster at Guanyin Temple but was saved by Sun Wukong. This event demonstrates the recurring threats and the heroic acts that helped preserve their quest.

11. 失却袈裟 (Losing the Cassock)

The black bear demon stole Tang Seng’s cassock, and Sun Wukong had to seek Guanyin Bodhisattva’s help to subdue the demon. This difficulty shows the constant challenges faced and the divine assistance received.

12. 收降八戒 (Subduing Zhu Bajie)

Tang Seng successfully subdued Zhu Bajie and took him on as a disciple. This trial signifies the recruitment of valuable companions to aid in the journey.

13. 黄风怪阻 (Yellow Wind Monster’s Obstruction)

The Yellow Wind Monster captured Tang Seng, and Sun Wukong had to seek Lingji Bodhisattva’s help to defeat the demon. This difficulty highlights the continuous battles against formidable enemies.

14. 请求灵吉 (Requesting Lingji Bodhisattva's Help)

Lingji Bodhisattva was called upon to subdue the Yellow Wind Monster and rescue Tang Seng. This demonstrates the importance of divine intervention in overcoming major obstacles.

15. 流沙难渡 (Difficulty Crossing the Sand River)

Tang Seng and his disciples faced challenges in crossing the Sand River. This trial illustrates the ongoing hardships of their journey and their perseverance in overcoming natural barriers.

16. 收得沙僧 (Subduing Sha Wujing)

Sha Wujing joined Tang Seng’s group as a disciple. This event signifies the completion of the core team of companions for the journey.

17. 四圣显化 (The Four Saints Test Tang Seng’s Group)

The Four Saints took on different forms to test Tang Seng and his disciples. This challenge represents the trials of faith and character that the group must endure.

18. 五庄观中 (The Incident at Five庄观)

Sun Wukong and others were caught stealing the ginseng fruits at Five庄观 and were punished by the town’s master. This event emphasizes the moral and ethical challenges faced during the journey.

19. 难活人参 (Reviving the Ginseng Tree)

Sun Wukong sought Guanyin Bodhisattva’s help to revive the ginseng tree after it was damaged. This difficulty shows the ongoing need for divine help in resolving critical issues.

20. 贬退心猿 (Downfall of the Heart Monkey)

After Sun Wukong killed the Bone Demon who had transformed multiple times, Tang Seng misunderstood the situation and expelled him. This event illustrates the internal conflicts and misunderstandings among the group.

21. 黑松林失散 (Losing Companions in Black Pine Forest)

Tang Seng got separated from Zhu Bajie and Sha Wujing in the Black Pine Forest and was captured by the Yellow Robe Monster. This trial emphasizes the dangers of the journey and the risks of separation.

22. 宝象国捎书 (Delivering a Letter to Baoxiang Country)

Tang Seng delivered a letter to Baoxiang Country, seeking the king’s help to capture demons and save the princess. This event demonstrates the political and diplomatic aspects of their journey.

23. 金銮殿变虎 (Transformation into a Tiger in Golden Luan Palace)

The Yellow Robe Monster transformed Tang Seng into a tiger, but Sun Wukong managed to save him. This difficulty showcases the magical threats and the heroic rescue operations.

24. 平顶山逢魔 (Encountering Demons on Flat Top Mountain)

The Golden Horned King and Silver Horned King captured Tang Seng and his companions. This event highlights the continuous threat of demons and the battles fought to overcome them.

25. 莲花洞高悬 (Rescuing from the Hanging Lotus Cave)

Sun Wukong devised a plan to rescue Tang Seng and his disciples who were suspended in the Lotus Cave. This trial shows the strategic planning required to overcome complex challenges.

26. 乌鸡国救主 (Saving the King of Wujiguo)

The king of Wujiguo requested help in a dream, and Sun Wukong saved him. This event illustrates the importance of divine aid and the successful resolution of the king’s plight.

27. 被魔化身 (Encountering the False Tang Seng)

The fake king transformed into a false Tang Seng but was taken away by Manjusri Bodhisattva. This difficulty shows the deceptive threats faced and the divine intervention required to address them.

28. 号山逢怪 (Meeting the Monster on Mount Houshan)

The Red Boy pretended to be captured to lure Tang Seng and his disciples into a trap. This trial represents the cunning deceptions and challenges faced along the journey.

29. 风摄圣僧 (Red Boy Captures Tang Seng with Wind)

The Red Boy used magical winds to capture Tang Seng. This difficulty highlights the ongoing magical threats and the need for protection and rescue.

30. 心猿遭害 (Sun Wukong’s Injury by the Red Boy)

The Red Boy used the Three Flames to injure Sun Wukong, but Guanyin Bodhisattva subdued the Red Boy. This event illustrates the serious threats faced and the divine help required to overcome them.

31. 请圣降妖 (Requesting Guanyin Bodhisattva's Help)

Guanyin Bodhisattva tamed the Red Boy, making him a Good Fortune Boy. This difficulty shows the role of divine assistance in resolving major conflicts.

32. 黑河沉没 (The Sinking of the Black River)

The Toad Dragon captures Tang Seng, and the Prince of the West Sea Dragon, Mo'ang, defeats the Toad Dragon and rescues Tang Seng.

33. 搬运车迟 (The Troubles at Chaochi Kingdom)

The Taoists of Chaochi Kingdom oppress the monks. Sun Wukong and his companions rescue the monks from their hardships.

34. 大赌输赢 (The Great Bet)

Sun Wukong and his companions compete with the three great Taoists of Chaochi Kingdom in rainmaking, meditation, and other skills, eventually defeating them and killing the three Taoists.

35. 祛道兴僧 (The Policy of Eliminating Taoists and Promoting Monks)

The King of Chaochi Kingdom starts a policy to eliminate Taoism and promote Buddhism.

36. 路逢大水 (Flood Encounter on the Road)

The Spirit King of the Tongtian River annually demands young boys and girls as sacrifices. Sun Wukong and his companions devise a plan to capture the monster but fail.

37. 身落天河 (Falling into the Heavenly River)

The Spirit King uses magic to break the ice and abducts Tang Seng.

38. 鱼篮现身 (The Fish Basket Appears)

The Bodhisattva Guanyin uses a fish basket to capture the Spirit King and rescue Tang Seng.

39. 金兜山遇怪 (Encountering Monsters on Golden Hoop Mountain)

The Single-Horned King captures Tang Seng and his companions. The Supreme Lord Laozi subdues the Single-Horned King and saves them.

40. 普天神难伏 (The Difficulty of Subduing the Gods)

Sun Wukong invites various gods to help subdue the monster but fails. Finally, the Supreme Lord Laozi intervenes to resolve the issue.

41. 问佛根源 (Inquiring About the Buddha’s Guidance)

Sun Wukong seeks guidance from Buddha and, with Buddha's advice, the Supreme Lord Laozi ultimately subdues the Single-Horned King.

42. 吃水遭毒 (Poisoning from the Water)

Tang Seng and Zhu Bajie accidentally drink water from the Zi Mu River and become pregnant. Sun Wukong retrieves the abortive water to counteract the poison.

43. 西梁国留婚 (The Marriage Proposal from the Kingdom of Western Liang)

The Queen of the Kingdom of Women wishes to marry Tang Seng. Tang Seng pretends to agree but escapes later.

44. 琵琶洞受苦 (Suffering in the Pipa Cave)

Tang Seng is kidnapped by the Scorpion Demon. The Sun Star Officer helps to subdue the Scorpion Demon and rescue Tang Seng.

45. 再贬心猿 (The Further Banishment of the Monkey King)

Tang Seng mistakenly believes Sun Wukong has killed living beings and expels him again.

46. 难辨猕猴 (The Difficulty in Identifying the Monkey)

The Six-Eared Macaque pretends to be Sun Wukong. Finally, Buddha distinguishes the real from the fake Sun Wukong.

47. 路阻火焰山 (The Obstacle of Flame Mountain)

Flame Mountain blocks the way. Sun Wukong uses the Banana Leaf Fan to extinguish the fire.

48. 求取芭蕉扇 (Seeking the Banana Leaf Fan)

Sun Wukong attempts multiple times to borrow the Banana Leaf Fan. Eventually, he tricks the owner into lending it to him.

49. 收缚魔王 (Subduing the Demon King)

The Bull Demon King refuses to lend the Banana Leaf Fan. In the end, Nezha subdues the Bull Demon King.

50. 赛城扫塔 (The Search for the Lost Relic)

The relic of the Golden Light Temple is lost. Tang Seng and his disciples help retrieve it.

51. 取宝救僧 (Retrieving the Treasure to Rescue the Monks)

Sun Wukong and Erlang Shen team up to defeat the Nine-Headed Bug and retrieve the relic.

52. 棘林吟咏 (Singing in the Thorny Forest)

Tang Seng is captured by a tree demon. Sun Wukong and his companions rescue him.

53. 小雷音遇难 (Difficulties at the Small Thunder Sound Temple)

Tang Seng mistakenly enters the Small Thunder Sound Temple and is captured by the Yellow Eyebrow King.

54. 诸天神遭困 (The Gods are Trapped)

The gods are trapped by the Yellow Eyebrow King. Maitreya Buddha helps to resolve the situation.

55. 稀柿衕秽阻 (The Muddy Persimmon Obstacle)

Zhu Bajie transforms into a large pig to clear away the rotten persimmons and help his companions pass through the muddy area.

56. 朱紫国行医 (Healing in the Zhuzi Kingdom)

Sun Wukong reveals himself to cure the illness of the King of Zhuzi Kingdom.

57. 拯救疲癃 (Saving the Fatigued King)

Sun Wukong diagnoses and cures the King of Zhuzi Kingdom's illness.

58. 降妖取后 (Subduing the Monster to Rescue the Princess)

Sun Wukong fights against the Saitai Sui but is defeated. Eventually, Guanyin Bodhisattva appears and resolves the issue.

59. 七情迷没 (The Confusion in the Seven Fairies' Manor)

Tang Seng mistakenly enters the manor of the Seven Fairies and is captured by a spider demon.

60. 多目遭伤 (The Many-Eyed Monster's Attack)

The Hundred-Eyed Demon King uses poisoned dates to attack Tang Seng and his disciples. Bilanpo Bodhisattva helps to resolve the problem.

61. 路阻狮驼岭 (The Obstacle of Lion Camel Ridge)

The White Star warns about the dangers of Lion Camel Ridge. Sun Wukong investigates the situation.

62. 怪分三色 (The Monster with Three Colors)

Sun Wukong is swallowed by the Green Lion Monster and causes chaos inside. The Green Lion Monster agrees to release Tang Seng.

63. 城里遇灾 (Disaster in the City)

The three demons reappear and capture Tang Seng and his disciples. The Dragon King of the North Sea, Ao Shun, helps protect them.

64. 请佛收魔 (Inviting Buddha to Subdue the Demon)

Buddha personally comes to subdue the Golden-Winged Great Peng Bird.

65. 比丘救子 (The Monk Saves the Child)

The Prime Minister of the Bhikshu Kingdom wants to use a child’s heart to cure his illness. Sun Wukong disguises himself as Tang Seng to expose the plot.

66. 辨认真邪 (Distinguishing the True from the False)

The Immortal of Longevity appears and takes away the Deer Demon, curing the illness of the Prime Minister of the Bhikshu Kingdom.

67. 松林救怪 (Rescuing the Monster in the Pine Forest)

A female demon disguises herself as a suffering woman and deceives Tang Seng, leading him to the Zhenhai Zen Temple.

68. 僧房卧病 (Illness in the Monks' Quarters)

Tang Seng falls ill and writes a resignation letter.

69. 无底洞遭困 (The Endless Cave Trap)

A female demon wishes to marry Tang Seng and obtain his vital essence. Nezha arrives to subdue the demon.

70. 灭法国难行 (The Difficulty in the Country of Mie Fa)

The King of Mie Fa Kingdom vows to kill ten thousand monks, having already killed nine thousand nine hundred and ninety-six. Only four monks remain to be killed.

71. 隐雾山遇魔 (Encountering Demons on Hidden Mist Mountain)

The demon with ivy and leopard eyes captures Tang Seng. The White Horse saves Tang Seng, and the Monkey King subdues the demon.

72. 凤仙郡求雨 (Praying for Rain in Phoenix County)

The Phoenix County suffers from a severe drought. The Jade Emperor grants permission for rain to alleviate the situation.

73. 失落神器 (The Lost Divine Artifact)

The three young princes of Yuhua County seek apprenticeship, but the divine artifact is stolen by a demon.

74. 会庆钉钯 (The Celebration of the Iron Fork)

The Yellow Lion Demon prepares a grand event for the Iron Fork and invites the Nine Spirits Sage, but Sun Wukong and his companions discover it.

75. 竹节山遭难 (The Misfortune at Bamboo Shoot Mountain)

The Nine Spirits Sage leads the Lion Kings to Yuhua County, but they are ultimately rescued by the Taiyi Zhenren and taken back to Heaven.

76. 玄英洞受苦 (Suffering in the Mysterious Cave)

Three demons disguised as Buddha capture Tang Seng, but they are defeated by the Four Wood Birds Star who rescue him.

77. 赶捉犀牛 (Hunting the Rhinoceros)

The Jade Emperor sends the Four Wood Birds Star to assist in subduing demons.

78. 天竺招婚 (The Marriage Proposal from Tianzhu)

The fake princess, the Jade Rabbit Demon, wants to marry Tang Seng but is taken back to Heaven by the Moon Star Lord.

79. 铜台府监禁 (The Imprisonment in Copper Platform Manor)

Kou Yuanwai is murdered by robbers, and the widow Kou falsely accuses Tang Seng and his disciples.

80. 凌云渡脱胎 (The Transcendence at Lingyun Crossing)

Tang Seng and his disciples reach Lingyun Crossing, where Tang Seng transcends his mortal body.

81. 阴魔夺经 (The Demonic Theft of the Scriptures)

The scriptures are soaked by a demonic force, but the demon fails to steal them.