Chinese mythology, folktales, and literature
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.
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.”