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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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?