Chapter eight
The Buddha composes scriptures to spread ultimate bliss.
Guanyin receives the decree and journeys to Chang'an.
wǒfózàojīngchuánjílè我佛造经传极乐guānyīnfèngzhǐshàngchángān观音奉旨上长安
How to read this chart:
Tathagata's Return to Spirit Mountain
Thunderclap MonasteryTathagata returns to his monastery, greeted by celestial beings. He proclaims the emptiness of phenomena and the subjugation of a 'wily ape' (Wukong), revealing how he trapped him using the Mountain of Five Phases. A grand feast is held with offerings of flowers and fruits. Bodhisattvas compose poems on blessings, wealth, and longevity to honor Tathagata's virtues.
The Dharma Lecture
Thunderclap MonasteryTathagata delivers a sermon on the Three Vehicles and the Lotus Sutra, causing celestial phenomena. He analyzes the moral states of beings in the Four Great Continents, highlighting Jambudvipa's corruption.
Buddha's Mission to Guanyin
Thunderclap MonasteryThe Buddha declares the need for a monk in the East to spread the teachings and tasks Bodhisattva Guanyin with finding one. Guanyin volunteers, receives five talismans: an embroidered cassock, a nine-ring staff, and three magical fillets from the Buddha to aid the future monk. Muzha is assigned to accompany Guanyin as her protector.
Encounter at Flowing Sand River
Flowing-Sand RiverWhile traveling to the East, Guanyin and Muzha reach the treacherous Flowing Sand River. A ferocious demon emerges from the riverbank and attacks them. Muzha engages in a fierce battle with Wujing using an iron rod. Wujing reveals he was banished to Earth after breaking a crystal goblet in Heaven. Guanyin intervenes, offering him redemption and gives him the name Wujing, instructing him to await the scripture-seeking monk.
Conversion of the Pig Demon
Mountain of the Blessed MoundA fierce battle erupts between Muzha and a pig-demon, who confesses his past as the Marshal of the Heavenly Reeds, punished for misconduct in Heaven. Guanyin intervenes, persuading the demon to reform and await the scripture-seeking monk, giving him the name Wuneng.
The Young Dragon’s Rescue
Western OceanGuanyin and Muzha find a young dragon condemned for burning palace pearls, hanging in the sky. Guanyin pleads with the Jade Emperor, who pardons the dragon and allows him to serve as a steed for the scripture pilgrim, instructing him to transform into a white horse.
Redemption of Wukong
Guanyin and Muzha visit the Mountain of Five Phases, where Wukong is imprisoned. Wukong pleads for release; Guanyin promises he will be freed if he repents and serves the scripture-seeking monk, giving him the name Wukong.
Arrival at Chang'an
Chang'anGuanyin and Muzha travel to Chang'an, disguising themselves as monks. They seek refuge in a local spirit’s temple while awaiting the scripture-seeking monk, vowing secrecy about their true identities.