Chapter forty-eight
The demon conjures cold winds and sends heavy snow.
The monk, longing to worship Buddha, treads on layered ice.
mónònghánfēngpiāodàxuě魔弄寒风飘大雪sēngsībàifólǚcéngbīng僧思拜佛履层冰
How to read this chart:
Temple of Numinous Power – Sacrifice Ritual
Chenjia VillageVillagers from Chen Village bring offerings, including a virgin boy and girl, to the temple for the 'God of the Great King of Numinous Power.' Wukong and Bajie, disguised as the sacrificial children, observe the ritual and the villagers’ prayers for blessings. Bajie wants to leave, but Wukong insists they must finish the task and confront the demon.
Temple Entrance – The Demon Arrives
Chenjia VillageThe demon arrives, questions the 'sacrifices.' Wukong and Bajie answer confidently, confusing the demon. The demon hesitates to seize them.
Temple Courtyard & River – The Demon’s Defeat
Chenjia VillageDemon tries to seize Bajie, who reveals his true form and attacks. Wukong joins; they damage the demon’s armor. The demon flees into the river.
Elder Chen Family Courtyard – Return with Offerings
Chenjia VillageWukong and Bajie return with the offerings. Sanzang and Wujing hear about the encounter.
Water Palace – The Demon’s Lament and Perch-mother’s Plan
Heaven-Reaching RiverDemon laments his defeat and lost offerings. Perch-mother proposes a plan to freeze the river and capture Sanzang.
Elder Chen Household – Awakening to Snow
Chenjia VillageThe group wakes to extreme cold and heavy snow. Elder Chen explains the local climate; Sanzang worries about delays. Sanzang weeps over the journey’s delay. Elder Chen reassures him.
Elder Chen’s Home & Garden – Hospitality and Admiring Snow
Chenjia VillageThe pilgrims are treated as family, enjoy meals, and admire the snow-covered garden. They relax in a heated snow cave, converse with neighbors, and drink tea and wine.
Elder Chen’s Home & Riverbank – Crossing the Frozen River
Chenjia VillageRumors spread that the river is frozen. Sanzang wants to cross; Elder Chen advises caution. The group inspects the river, sees traders crossing, and debates whether to wait or proceed. Bajie tests the ice and confirms it is safe.
Elder Chen’s Household – Farewell
Chenjia VillageThe pilgrims prepare to depart, refuse money, accept dried food, and reaffirm their vow to beg for sustenance.
Icy River – Crossing and Night Journey
Heaven-Reaching RiverThe group crosses the river; the horse struggles on the ice. Bajie suggests wrapping straw on the horse’s hooves. At night, they hear the ice crack; Bajie explains it’s natural.
Underwater – Sanzang Captured
Heaven-Reaching RiverThe demon breaks the ice, ambushes the group, and captures Sanzang. The demon plans to eat Sanzang but delays at the perch-mother’s suggestion.
Elder Chen’s Village – Return Without Sanzang
Chenjia VillageWukong, Bajie, and Wujing return with luggage but without Sanzang. The Chen brothers are informed.
Old Men’s Residence – Discussion
Chenjia VillageTwo old men lament Sanzang’s refusal of a boat. Wukong reassures them and plans a rescue.
Riverbank – Preparing for Rescue
Heaven-Reaching RiverAfter a meal, the three brothers take up weapons and head to the river to search for Sanzang.