Chinese mythology, folktales, and literature
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When assigning the mission, Tathagata Buddha explicitly stated that scriptures “cannot be lightly bestowed.” If obtained too easily, the people of the Eastern Land might disdain or slander them.
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Many friends might have this question while watching Journey to the West, especially those who haven’t read the original novel but learned about the story through movies or TV shows.
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We know that in Journey to the West, Chen Xuanzang (Tang Sanzagn or Tripitaka) is the reincarnation of the Golden Cicada (Gold Cicada or Jin Chanzi). So, did Guanyin Bodhisattva choose Chen Xuanzang or the Golden Cicada as the scripture seeker? And who ultimately achieves Buddhahood?
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Sun Wukong, the Monkey King in Journey to the West, possesses extraordinary strength and supernatural abilities. For example, he can carry mountains, move at meteoric speeds, and defeat even the mightiest warriors. In this post, we will talk about how strong the monkey is and unveil the power of the monkey king.
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Chan Master Sikong Benjing, a renowned Tang Dynasty monk and direct heir of Huineng, presided over Erzu Temple on Sikong Mountain since 713 CE. In 744, Emperor Xuanzong dispatched envoy Yang Guangting to gather herbs in the mountains, where he encountered the master.
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Chan Master Wuye (760-821), a prominent Tang Dynasty monk, was a revered disciple of Mazu Daoyi and a key figure in the Hongzhou school of Chan Buddhism. Renowned for his unwavering commitment to ascetic practice. He declined three imperial summons from two different emperors. Lived for decades in rigorous seclusion across Zhongnanshan and Shangluo…
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One day, seeing Mazu Daoyi (later a renowned Chan master) sitting rigidly in meditation for hours, his teacher Huairang decided to challenge him.