Tang San Zang: An Overview
Name Meaning
- Tang: This surname was bestowed upon him when he formed bonds of brotherhood with the Emperor of the great Tang dynasty.
- San Zang: Translating to Tripitaka, this refers to the holy texts he was assigned to retrieve, which include:
- a) Vinaya Pitaka
- b) Sutra Pitaka
- c) Abhidharma Pitaka
The combination of these names reflects his deep connection to his mission and the cultural significance of the Tang Dynasty.
Variants and Global Recognition
The character is also known as Tang Sanzang, and in English, he is often referred to as Tang Monk, Monk of Tang, or Tripitaka. In Japanese, he is called San Zang or Sanzo.
Age and Status
San Zang embarked on his noteworthy pilgrimage in his mid-thirties and is recognized as a human monk.
Origins
He hails from the era of the Great Tang dynasty.
Titles and Other Names
- Xuan Zang: This name denotes his Buddhist identity after becoming a monk. In Japanese, it’s pronounced Genjo.
- Jiang Liu: This title reflects his start in life, meaning “flowing river,” as he was found floating down a river by a monastery head.
- Jin Chan Zi: This was his name in a previous life before reincarnation; he was reborn on Earth due to a transgression against the teachings of Buddha. In Japanese, he is referred to as Konzen Douji.
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Chen: His original surname prior to monkhood; historical accounts name the real person he emulates as Chen Yi, though his first name is not mentioned in literature.
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Tang Seng: Meaning ‘Monk of Tang’, this is a term the author employs during his travels, often using the name as a familiar address among characters.
Abilities
San Zang does not possess supernatural powers or weapons. However, he has a remarkable capacity for memorization, able to retain scripture from a single reading. He also has the ability to meditate uninterrupted for years if needed. His singularly magical skill is the Band-Tightening Curse, which he uses as a punishment on Wu Kong when needed.
Historical Background
Originally Jin Chan Zi and a disciple of Buddha, San Zang was sent down to earth in punishment for his failure to adhere to Buddha’s teachings. Reborn to Mr. and Mrs. Chen, his early life was fraught with tragedy. His grandmother fell ill, leading to a series of events that saw his father mistaken for another and eventually murdered. His mother, fearing for his safety, cast him adrift in a river, only to have him found by a kind monk who raised him.
During his youth, he discovered a letter revealing his true origins, prompting him to seek out his mother and avenge his father. Through determination and bravery, he ultimately reunited his family. Later, after being directed by the disguised Goddess of Mercy to retrieve the sacred scriptures, he became sworn brothers with the Emperor and was granted the name San Zang, which marked the start of his pivotal journey.
Personality Traits
San Zang embodies kindness and compassion, adhering firmly to the principles of Buddhism. His aversion to violence often leads to tensions, particularly with Wu Kong, who acts decisively to protect their interests. A deep fear of legal consequences veils much of what could be perceived as his compassionate nature, showing how his concern for self-preservation sometimes surpasses his moral inclinations.
His naivety and trust are exploited by various demons, highlighting his overly generous disposition; he is easily misled into believing in the good of others, leading to frequent dangers during his travels. For instance, he has an infamous difficulty in distinguishing truth from deception, particularly when it involves those who play the victim.
Moreover, his susceptibility to greed and manipulation from characters like Ba Jie often places him in peril, showcasing a need for greater discernment when it comes to discerning friend from foe. His resilience against temptation, however, remains admirable, distinguishing him from less virtuous characters.
Conclusion
San Zang’s journey intertwines elements of cultural significance, historical impact, and personal growth. His character embodies a complex blend of virtue and human frailty, rendering him as a figure that resonates with many lessons regarding trust, accountability, and the true nature of compassion.
