Chinese mythology, folktales, and literature
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In Journey to the West, the Purple Gold Alms Bowl was bestowed upon Tang Sanzang by Emperor Taizong of Tang (Li Shimin) before his pilgrimage. While providing attendants and a horse was practical, the emperor’s deliberate choice of this sacred vessel demands scrutiny.
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Once, the Buddha was traveling through a forest on a scorching day. Thirsty, he said to his attendant Ānanda: “We crossed a small stream earlier. Return and fetch me water.”