Buddhism in the Classic Chinese Novel Journey to the West: Teaching Two Episodes
Roberta E. Adams

Notes on Buddhist Elements
Journey to the Western Paradise

Just as the historical monk Xuanzang actually journeyed to India and back, the fictional Xuanzang and his immortal disciples undertake a journey in the novel. However, they do not visit geographically accurate places; villages and terrain often have metaphorical or mythical significance, even if the band is supposedly traveling to India. Buddha — and the scriptures — reside on Vulture Peak ( Spirit Mountain), at the Great Thunder Monastery in the Western Land of Perfect Bliss, the Western Paradise. When they reach the foot of the peak, they must “cross over the water,” which they do in a bottomless boat, since only Monkey (who is already enlightened) has the ability to cross the narrow three-mile bridge. Frightened, Tripitaka falls in the water and must be pulled back in to the boat. As they push off, they see his corpse floating downstream: Tripitaka has finally let go of bodily attachment.

In helping Tripitaka on his journey, the pilgrims overcome suffering and accomplish deeds of charity, thus cultivating good retribution for previous actions and accumulate Karma. All are rewarded at the end: Tripitaka and Monkey become Buddhas, Pig is made Altar Cleanser, Friar Sand becomes a Golden Arhat, and the White Dragon Horse becomes the Heavenly Dragon of the Eight Classes of Being (Ch. 100).