Chapter fourteen
Wukong returns to the right path.
The Six Robbers vanish from sight.
xīnyuánguīzhèng心猿归正liùzéiwúzōng六贼无踪
How to read this chart:
Guardian Liu's Explanation and Arrival at Stone Box
Mountain of Two FrontiersSanzang and Guardian Liu arrive at the mountain where a trapped monkey is described as having been imprisoned for 500 years.
The Monkey's Imprisonment and Appeal
Mountain of Two FrontiersA monkey introduces himself as Sun Wukong, the Great Sage Equal to Heaven, imprisoned for rebellion. He appeals to Sanzang to free him and join his quest.
The Monkey's Release and Introduction
Mountain of Two FrontiersFollowing Guanyin’s prior instructions, Sanzang removes the golden seal and recites the freeing chant, releasing Wukong as divine winds and voices confirm his freedom. After the mountain collapses, Wukong is freed. He gratefully bows to Sanzang, acknowledging him as his master and benefactor.
Naming the Pilgrim Sun
Mountain of Two FrontiersSanzang bestows upon Wukong the monastic name 'Pilgrim Sun,' formally establishing him as his first disciple. The horse reacts fearfully, recalling Wukong’s past authority over celestial horses.
Boqin Parts Ways with Sanzang and Wukong
Mountain of Two FrontiersBoqin respectfully bids farewell to Sanzang, who thanks him for his kindness. They part ways as Wukong prepares to accompany Sanzang on their journey.
Wukong Fights and Skins a Tiger
Mountain of Two FrontiersAs they pass the Mountain of Two Frontiers, Wukong encounters a tiger. He uses his transformed iron rod to kill it instantly, then skins the tiger for clothes. During their journey afterward, he explains to Sanzang how his magical rod can change size and form.
Requesting Lodging from an Old Man
Mountain of Two FrontiersApproaching a village as night falls, Wukong and Sanzang seek lodging. An old man initially mistakes Wukong for a ghost but is calmed when Sanzang intervenes. They request shelter for the night.
Meeting with Old Man Chen
Mountain of Two FrontiersAn old man named Chen invites Sanzang and Wukong into his home, sharing tea and conversation. The family learns they share the surname Chen, leading to a friendly reunion. They prepare meals and baths for the travelers, with Wukong requesting a needle and thread to repair his attire.
Confrontation with Robbers
Mountain of Two FrontiersWhile traveling, Sanzang and Wukong encounter six robbers disguised as 'philanthropic mountain lords.' The six robbers symbolically represent human vices and inner senses. The robbers threaten them, but Wukong quickly dispatches all six with his iron rod, after mocking their identities.
Conflict Between Wukong and Sanzang
Mountain of Two FrontiersSanzang, moved by compassion and adherence to Buddhist principles, reprimands Wukong for killing even evildoers, emphasizing nonviolence and the value of all life. Angered by the scolding, Wukong quits and disappears in a cloud.
Encounter with the Old Woman (Guanyin)
Mountain of Two FrontiersAn old woman gives Sanzang a silk shirt, cap, and the Tight-Fillet Spell to control Wukong. She reveals herself as Guanyin and instructs him to use the spell if Wukong disobeys.
Wukong visits the Dragon King
Dragon Palace of the Eastern OceanWukong retreats to the Dragon King’s palace to reflect, seeking solace and advice. The Dragon King listens to Wukong’s frustrations and recounts the tale of Zhang Liang and Huang Shigong, imparting a moral lesson about patience and humility in serving masters.
The Moral Lesson of Zhang Liang
Water Crystal PalaceThe Dragon King recounts the story of Huang Shigong and Zhang Liang, emphasizing patience and humility. Wukong reflects on his decision to return to Sanzang. After the moral lesson, Wukong resolves to return to Sanzang. The Dragon King urges him to act swiftly and reunite with his master.
Encounter with Bodhisattva of South Sea
HeavenThe Bodhisattva confronts Wukong for abandoning Sanzang and urges him to return. Wukong explains his brief departure but promises to accompany the monk again.
Reunion with Sanzang and the Tight-Fillet Spell
Mountain of Two FrontiersWukong explains his cloud somersault ability and admits to leaving in a fit of anger. Sanzang gives Wukong a magical silk shirt and cap, which enhance spiritual knowledge. When Wukong wears them, Sanzang secretly recites the Tight-Fillet Spell to punish him.
Resolution and Continued Journey
Mountain of Two FrontiersThe Tight-Fillet Spell causes Wukong intense pain whenever he disobeys. After several painful lessons, Wukong submits fully and pledges unyielding loyalty to Sanzang, marking the firm establishment of the master-disciple bond. They reconcile, gather supplies, and resume their journey westward—master and disciple, united in purpose.