Chapter one hundred
They return to the Land of the East.
Five sages become perfected.
jìnghuídōngtǔ径回东土wǔshèngchéngzhēn五圣成真
How to read this chart:
Villagers Discover Disappearance of Sanzang
Life-Saving MonasteryAt dawn, villagers at the Life-Saving Monastery prepare offerings for Sanzang but find him missing. They search in vain, lamenting his absence and burning sacrifices to honor him.
Return to Chang'an and Meeting with Emperor Taizong
Scripture-Watch TowerThe Vajra Guardians return the pilgrims to Chang'an. Emperor Taizong, already at the Scripture-Watch Tower, greets them as they arrive via fragrant wind. The group descends to deliver scriptures and reunites with Taizong.
Pine Trees Signal Sanzang's Return
Temple of Great BlessingMonks at the Temple of Great Blessing notice pine trees pointing eastward, as foretold by Sanzang. They rush to confirm his return and join the imperial procession welcoming him back.
Presentation of Scriptures and Disciple Introductions
Chang'anAt the imperial court, Sanzang presents the scriptures to Emperor Taizong and recounts their journey. He introduces his disciples—Wukong, Bajie, and Wujing—and explains the origins of each.
Imperial Banquet in Honor of Pilgrims
Chang'anTaizong hosts a banquet for Sanzang and his disciples. The imperial court celebrates their return, acknowledging the pilgrims' sacrifices and the successful retrieval of scriptures.
Emperor's Composition on Buddhist Merit
Chang'anThe next day, Taizong composes a philosophical treatise praising Sanzang and the profound merits of Buddhism. The document is transcribed by officials.
Recitation and Temple for Scripture Transcription
Wild-Goose Pagoda TempleAt the Wild-Goose Pagoda, Taizong and Sanzang oversee the ritual recitation and establish a new temple to properly copy and preserve the scriptures for the empire.
Ascension to Spirit Mountain
Wild-Goose Pagoda TempleThe Eight Vajra Guardians appear, summoning Sanzang and his disciples to return to the West. The group rises into the air as Taizong and officials bow in awe.
Preparations for Grand Mass
Wild-Goose Pagoda TempleAfter worshiping, Taizong selects high priests to conduct a Land and Water Mass. The true scriptures will be copied and spread across the empire.
Reward of Disciples at Spirit Mountain
Thunderclap MonasteryBuddha rewards each disciple for their journey. Sanzang becomes the Buddha of Candana Merit, Wukong is appointed Buddha Victorious in Strife, Bajie as Janitor of the Altars, and Wujing as Golden-Bodied Arhat. The white horse transforms into a dragon. Each disciple's transformation marks the completion of the great pilgrimage, as they achieve immortal reward and eternal honor under the Buddha's blessing.