Author: Sun WuKong
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Tang Seng, commonly known by his Sanskrit name Tripitaka (唐三藏 táng sān zàng), stands as a pivotal figure in the classical Chinese novel Journey to the West (西游记 xī yóu jì). The narrative chronicles his pilgrimage to India with the aim of retrieving a collection of Buddhist scriptures, which he intends to disseminate throughout China,…
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Tang Seng, known in the West as Tripitaka (唐三藏 táng sān zàng), is a pivotal figure in the classical Chinese novel “Journey to the West” (西游记 xī yóu jì). This narrative chronicles Tang Seng’s arduous expedition to India to retrieve a collection of Buddhist texts aimed at disseminating Buddhist principles throughout his homeland. Accompanying him…
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The Legend of Sun Wukong: The Monkey King Overview Sun Wukong, often referred to as the Monkey King in Chinese mythology, is a prominent trickster deity, notably featured in Wu Cheng’en’s classic novel Journey to the West. Wukong boasts incredible superhuman strength and possesses the extraordinary ability to transform into 72 different creatures and items.…
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Xuanzang: The Monk Who Bridged Cultures The revered Chinese mythological tale, “Xi You Ji” (Pilgrimage to the West), has immortalized the figure of Tang Seng, a character inspired by the real-life monk Xuanzang (602-664). This remarkable figure made significant contributions to Buddhism and education throughout his life. Known also as Tang Sanzang, Xuanzang was a…
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Zhu Ba Jie, popularly known as “Pigsy” in English, is a prominent character featured in the classic Chinese novel Journey to the West (西游记 xī yóu jì). Initially, he was a celestial being but was expelled from Heaven due to his lewd behavior. Similar to Sha Wu Jing (沙悟净 shā wù jì), Zhu Ba Jie…
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The character of Zhu Bajie, known as the Marshal of the Heavenly Reeds, has a fascinating origin that intertwines with ancient beliefs and deities. This marshal, depicted in the prominent novel, has roots tracing back to shamanistic traditions, with the name “Heavenly Reeds” referring to “Heaven’s Mugwort.” The association with mugwort indicates its long-standing reputation…
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The depiction of Zhu Bajie in literature portrays him as a reincarnated figure of the Marshal of the Heavenly Reeds, a general historically revered as a deity. His name hints at ancient shamanistic traditions, with a translation of “Heavenly Reeds” suggesting a reference to “Heaven’s Mugwort,” a plant believed to possess spiritual and healing properties.…
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The Enigmatic Monkey King: Sun Wukong Sun Wukong, the charismatic Monkey King, is a legendary figure rooted in Chinese mythology and greatly celebrated in the 16th-century epic, “Journey to the West” (西游记). His story transcends time, originating from tales of the Song dynasty, and continues to inspire various adaptations and narratives. Wukong’s journey begins as…
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The Conflict: Sun Wukong vs. Olympian Gods In the ongoing debate surrounding the might of Sun Wukong, the Monkey King, against the twelve Olympian gods, various opinions have surfaced over years of discussion. Wukong is a character deeply rooted in Chinese mythology, showcasing extraordinary abilities and feats that often spark admiration and intrigue. Sun Wukong’s…
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Understanding Tang Sanzang in Premodern Chinese Literature Tang Sanzang, also known as Tripitaka or Xuánzàng, is a fundamental figure in the renowned Chinese classic ‘Journey to the West.’ As a Buddhist monk on a sacred journey to procure religious texts from India, he embodies the relentless pursuit of spiritual enlightenment and wisdom. His character encapsulates…