Why did Zhenyuanzi swear brotherhood with Wukong?

In Journey to the West, Zhenyuanzi (Great Immortal Zhenyuan) — the Ancestor of Earthly Immortals — transforms from an “enemy” to a “sworn brother” of Sun Wukong.

This seemingly unusual act conceals Zhenyuanzi’s profound calculations: it reflects his grand vision and foresight while subtly navigating the dynamics of the pilgrimage team and Buddhist-Daoist relations.

Zhenyuan’s Status and Power

Great Immortal Zhenyuan was no ordinary demon but the “Ancestor of Earthly Immortals,” holding an exalted status. Sun Wukong’s toppling of the Ginseng Fruit Tree was, to Zhenyuanzi, a “youngster’s mischief” rather than a “life-or-death grudge.” For him, “settling scores” mattered far less than “leveraging the situation strategically.”

Recognition of Wukong’s “Future Value”

Swearing brotherhood with Sun Wukong was, in essence, an “investment in the future.” Though Wukong was then merely a “disciple of the scripture-seeking monk,” his background and potential were extraordinary. He was the “Dharma Protector” chosen by Tathagata Buddha (implying future core membership in the Buddhist faction). Despite his rebellious nature, Wukong’s “daring accountability” earned Zhenyuanzi’s respect.

Preserving Dignity while Demonstrating Magnanimity

Great Immortal Zhenyuan effortlessly captured Sun Wukong using his “Sleeve Universe” technique, displaying both power and authority. When Wukong proposed “finding a way to revive the tree,” Zhenyuanzi agreed — not as “compromise,” but to transform “retribution” into “transaction.”

For Zhenyuanzi, this process incurred no loss (the tree was restored), bolstered his prestige (even Guanyin intervened to show public support), curried favor with the Buddhists (by sparing Wukong), and showcased his “forgiving” magnanimity. This proved far wiser than killing Wukong and alienating the Buddhist faction.

The Art of Balance

A core subplot in Journey to the West is the “Daoist-Buddhist rivalry.” As the “Ancestor of Earthly Immortals,” Great Immortal Zhenyuan belonged neither to the Daoist Celestial Court nor the Buddhist Spirit Mountain — he represented a “third force.” His tactic of “offending neither side while courting both” epitomized the survival wisdom of a “third-party leader.” He needed no allegiance to any faction but ensured neither dared underestimate him.