The Heavenly Stems and Earthly Branches were a system used in ancient China to mark years, months, days, and hours. In Journey to the West, the universe is divided into 12 cyclical periods, each named after the Earthly Branches. Similarly, ancient Chinese divided the day into 12 segments, also named after these branches. For example, master Subhuti taught Sun Wukong the path to immortality at midnight, called Zi hour, which spans 11 PM to 1 AM.
While sundials measured time during the day, ancient Chinese developed ingenious methods for nighttime timekeeping:
Water Clocks (Clepsydra)
These devices measured time by regulating water flow. After the Western Han Dynasty, leaky pots became standardized timekeeping tools.
In Journey to the West, the first mention of a water clock appears in Chapter 2, where Subhuti hints at Sun Wukong learning immortality secrets at midnight. Notably, the Lingtai Fangcun Mountain lacked such tools, so the Monkey King counted time by tracking his breaths.
Bell and Drum Towers
These towers were standard features in ancient Chinese cities. Morning bells and evening drums officially announced the time to citizens.
In Journey to the West, bell and drum towers are referenced in Chapters 12, 36, 62, 89, and 96, emphasizing their cultural and practical significance.
Night Watch System
Night watchmen struck bamboo blocks or gongs to mark time. The night (7:00 PM to 5:00 AM) was divided into five watches (五更), each lasting ~2 hours.
In Journey to the West, demons also use this method to track time, as seen in Chapters 52, 71, and 74, blending folklore with practical timekeeping.
Key Takeaways
Ancient Chinese nighttime timekeeping relied on water clocks, bell/drum towers, and night watchmen, combining technology, civic systems, and cultural practices. Journey to the West reflects these methods, integrating them into its mythological narrative while preserving historical authenticity.
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