In traditional Chinese culture, the conflict and fusion between Buddhism and Taoism underwent a prolonged historical process, a phenomenon vividly expressed and embodied in Journey to the West.
Today, we will discuss briefly the conflict and reconciliation of different traditions and religions from Zhen Yuanzi’s perspective in Journey to the West.
The Great Immortal(Daoist) treats his old friend(Buddhist)
In Journey to the West Chapter 24, before departing on urgent business, Zhen Yuanzi instructed his disciples in advance to prepare a hospitable reception for the imminent arrival of Tang Sanzang.
Before his departure, Master Zhenyuan gave instructions to the two young lads, saying, “I cannot refuse the invitation of the Great Honorable Divine, and I’m leaving for the Miluo Palace to attend a lecture. You two must be watchful, for an old friend of mine will be passing by here any day. Don’t fail to treat him kindly: you may, in fact, strike down from the tree two of the ginseng fruits for him to eat as a token of our past friendship.”
“Who is this friend of yours, Master?” asked one of the lads. “Tell us, so that we may take good care of him.” “He is a holy monk serving the Great Tang Emperor in the land of the East,” said the Great Immortal, “and his religious name is Tripitaka. He is now on his way to the Western Heaven to acquire scriptures from Buddha.”
— Journey to the West Chapter 24
The disciples’ disdain for Buddhist-Taoist collaboration
One of his disciples quotes Confucius’ dictum to retort.
“According to Confucius,” said one of the lads, laughing, “‘One does not take counsel with those who follow a different Way.’ We belong to the Mysterious Fold of the Great Monad. Why should we associate with a Buddhist monk?”
— Journey to the West Chapter 24
The literal meaning of Confucius’ quote is that individuals or groups with conflicting values or goals should avoid alliances.
Confucius said: “People who follow different paths do not conspire together.”
— Analects
The Confucius’ dictum emphasizes that those who follow different paths cannot collaborate; those with opposing goals cannot sustain lasting friendship.
Zhen Yuanzi’s Transcendent Status
As the “Patriarch of Earth Immortals,” Zhen Yuanzi exists beyond rigid sectarian boundaries. His cultivation places him above mundane religious rivalries, aligning with the Ming-era philosophical idea that ”all teachings converge at the peak of truth”. By attending the Ullambana Festival, he embodies the harmony between Taoism and Buddhism, symbolizing the interconnectedness of spiritual paths.
“You should know,” said the Great Immortal, “that that monk happens to be the incarnate Gold Cicada, the second disciple of Tathāgata, the Aged Sage of the West. Five hundred years ago, I became acquainted with him during the Feast of the Ullambana Bowl, when he presented me tea with his own hands as the various sons of Buddha paid me their respect. That’s why I consider him an old friend.” When the two immortal lads heard these words, they accepted them as the instruction of their master.
— Journey to the West Chapter 24
Buddhism and Taoism in Chinese History
The interplay between Buddhism and Taoism in China is intricate and historically layered. Buddhism entered China via Silk Road trade routes from India, while Taoism, as an indigenous spiritual tradition, predated its arrival. As Buddhism took root, debates and rivalries emerged between the two traditions. Taoists often perceived Buddhism as a threat, and imperial favoritism toward one tradition over the other fueled conflicts.
After the Tang and Song dynasties, internal recognition of the Three Teachings—Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism—began to coalesce. By the Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties, a tangible convergence of these traditions emerged in religious practice, blending philosophical and ritual elements.
Modern Relevance
Such harmony and tension also reflect the religious pluralism and cultural inclusivity of ancient Chinese society. This dynamic offers profound insights for navigating differences and fostering cooperation in today’s complex, multicultural world.
The story critiques rigid adherence to ideological purity. In today’s multicultural world, it advocates:
- Cross-Cultural Dialogue: Differences in “paths” (beliefs, traditions) need not preclude cooperation.
- Ethical Universals: Shared values (compassion, integrity) matter more than sectarian labels.
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