Authored by Shao Yong (Shao Kangjie) during the Northern Song Dynasty, Huangji Jingshi (The Supreme Principles Governing the World) is a seminal work of Chinese philosophy. It employs Yijing (Book of Changes) principles to explore the universe’s origins, natural evolution, and historical societal transformations. Rooted in the He-Tu and Luo-Shu numerological traditions and Xiang-Shu (“image-number”) cosmology, the text profoundly influenced ancient Chinese philosophy, science, and culture—including Journey to the West.
(more…)Author: Juan
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Sworn Brotherhoods in Journey to the West
The term “Sworn Brotherhood of Eight Bows” refers to an oath-bound fraternal bond in Chinese culture, signifying an exceptionally close, brotherly relationship. Rooted in ancient traditions, such sworn alliances were considered sacred and lifelong commitments.
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Immortals at Play: Chess and Time in Journey to the West
In Journey to the West, Sun Wukong encounters a woodcutter who guides him to seek a master and learn immortality. This woodcutter’s role mirrors an ancient Chinese legend, weaving Taoist themes of timelessness and illusion into the narrative.
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Is Wei Zheng Mortal or Divine in Journey to the West?
In Journey to the West, Wei Zheng embodies a dual identity. He is neither fully mortal nor purely divine but a liminal figure ensuring cosmic order—a reminder that even human affairs are threads in the tapestry of heavenly design.
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