036 CHAPTER TWELVE: D. THE GUANYIN ISSUES THE QUEST
Seven days had passed in the blink of an eye, and the appointed day for the grand assembly arrived. The news of this virtuous event had spread far and wide.
Xuanzang prepared a formal request and asked the Emperor of the Tang Dynasty to light incense.
Emperor Taizong, accompanied by numerous officials, royal consorts, and noble families, made his way to the temple early.
Regardless of their status, people from all walks of life in the city streamed to the temple to attend the lecture.
As the time came, the Bodhisattva and Muzha said, "Today is the Water and Land Dharma Assembly, and it's quite a significant occasion. We'll blend in with the crowd, observing the assembly's proceedings. Also, we'll check whether precious belongings will fit the Golden Cicada and hear the teachings he'll impart." Together, they entered the temple.
It was a case of destiny reuniting old acquaintances, returning wisdom to its original spiritual abode. Inside the temple, the sight was awe-inspiring: the grandeur of a mighty nation surpassed even the brilliance of Shravasti and Jetavana. The melodic sounds of Buddhist chants echoed through the air like celestial music.
The Bodhisattva proceeded to the vicinity of the Precious Lotus Platform. There, the wise Golden Cicada was indeed present.
Here's the poem:
All forms, clear and bright, dust can't invade,
On the lofty platform, Xuanzang sat, portrayed.
Guiding lost souls from realms unseen,
Teaching the Dharma, a marketplace's serene.
Offering boundless goods to hearts in need,
The gate of compassion open, it takes no heed.
Proclaiming immeasurable truths with grace,
Old and young find joy in their embrace.
And in another verse:
Within the Dharma realm's lecture hall we roam,
Meeting like minds, finding common home.
Speaking of countless matters in the present's light,
Discussing eons of practice, their might.
Dharma clouds stretch over mountains high,
A teaching net cast wide across the sky.
Examining lives, returning to good thought,
As heavenly rain, red petals are brought.
On the platform, Xuanzang first recited a chapter of the "Sutra of Birth and Death," followed by a discussion of the "Seal of Peace in the Heavenly Realm." Then he expounded upon the "Encouragement of Cultivating Merits."
The Bodhisattva approached, clapping her hands on the platform, and exclaimed in a strong voice, "Monk, you seem to be well-versed in the teachings of Hinayana, but do you also understand the Mahayana?"
Upon hearing this, Xuanzang felt a surge of joy within him. He quickly stepped down from the platform and respectfully addressed the Bodhisattva, "Respected Master, I am ignorant and at fault. In the presence of these fellow monks, we have been discussing the teachings of Hinayana Buddhism. However, I am not familiar with the teachings of Mahayana Buddhism."
The Bodhisattva replied, "Your knowledge of Hinayana Buddhism is limited to aiding the common folk and promoting virtuous practices. But I possess the vast teachings of Mahayana Buddhism. It can elevate the departed to higher realms, offer salvation to those in distress, guide them towards liberation from suffering, cultivate boundless life, and transcend the cycle of birth and death."
Amid the discourse, a palace official hurriedly reported to the Tang Emperor, "Your Majesty, the monk speaking about profound teachings is being interrupted by two wandering monks with skin diseases. They're speaking nonsensically and causing a disturbance."
The emperor ordered them to be apprehended.
Soon, a crowd ushered the two monks into the rear hall.
When they faced Emperor Taizong, the monks didn't properly bow or greet. Instead, they looked up, and one asked, "What does Your Majesty wish to inquire about?"
Emperor Tang recognized them and said, "Aren't you the monks who brought the kasaya here the other day?"
The Bodhisattva replied, "Indeed."
Emperor Tang continued, "Since you came to listen to the teachings, you should have peacefully partaken in the offerings. Why then did you disrupt the lecture of our master and disturb the sanctity of the temple, interfering with our practice of Buddhism?"
The Bodhisattva replied, "The teachings of your monk are of the Hinayana tradition, which cannot lead the deceased to ascend to heaven. I possess the Mahayana Buddhist scriptures, which can offer salvation to the departed and liberate from suffering, ensuring an unharmed lifespan."
With a solemn yet joyful expression, Emperor Taizong inquired, "Where can I find these Mahayana Buddhist scriptures?"
The Bodhisattva responded, "They are located at the Great Thunderclap Monastery in the Western Land of India, under the guidance of the Tathagata. These scriptures can untangle myriad grievances and dispel unfounded calamities."
The Tang Emperor asked, "Do you remember it?"
The Bodhisattva affirmed, "I remember."
Emperor Tang's delight was evident as he proclaimed, "Guide the master there and invite him to step onto the platform to deliver his lecture."
The Bodhisattva, accompanied by Muzha, soared up onto a high platform. Stepping on auspicious clouds, she ascended into the sky. She manifested her compassionate forms there, holding a pure vase and a willow branch. On the left stood the Benevolent Pilgrim, gripping a staff with focused intent.
Emperor Tang joyously bowed towards the heavens while the gathered officials and scholars knelt and lit incense. Within the entire temple, monks, nuns, laypeople, and merchants all offered prayers. "Amazing Bodhisattva! Amazing Bodhisattva!" Their praises echoed.
The scene was filled with radiant splendor and divine light as the Bodhisattva appeared majestically in the sky.
A headdress of golden leaves and emerald blossoms bedecked the Bodhisattva, radiating a golden glow and an aura of auspiciousness. She wore a light-colored robe with delicate patterns embroidered with golden dragons and flying phoenixes. A necklace of precious jewels and jade adorned her chest, reflecting moonlight and dancing in the gentle breeze. A silk sash embellished her waist, trimmed with golden edges, ascending like colorful clouds and touching the jade sea, creating a tapestry-like skirt. In front of her perched a white parrot with yellow feathers and a red beak, a symbol of gratitude and filial piety, capable of traversing the eastern skies and the world at large.
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In her hand, she held a benevolent and world-altering treasure vase with a branch inside that scattered into the sky, dispersing negativity and clearing away lingering mist like drooping willow branches. Her jade ring was trimmed with embroidered clasps, and her golden lotus feet stood gracefully. With the ability to move freely within the Three Realms, this was the embodiment of Guanyin, the Bodhisattva of compassion, who saves those in distress and brings comfort to the world.
The joy in the Tang Emperor's heart made him forget about his empire, and the civil and military officials abandoned their formal duties, for everyone was reciting "Namo Guanyin Bodhisattva."
The emperor immediately issued a decree instructing a skilled artist to paint the true likeness of the Bodhisattva. With the legislation in place, they chose the renowned Wu Daozi, an artist with exceptional vision and talent (who would later paint the portraits of meritorious officials in the Lingyan Pavilion). Without delay, Wu Daozi unfolded his skillful brush, capturing the Bodhisattva's true form.
Gradually, the auspicious clouds surrounding the Bodhisattva faded away, and in an instant, the golden radiance vanished. Instead, a paper scroll gently descended from midair, bearing a few verses that were written with clarity.
The verses read:
> "In honor of the great Tang lord, behold the wondrous texts from the West,
> A journey spanning countless miles, dedicated to the Greater Vehicle's quest.
> This scripture to the homeland returns, transcending the ghostly throng,
> If one dares to undertake this voyage, the golden body of truth they'll long."
The excitement continued as people read these verses, and a sense of wonder and anticipation filled the Emperor's court.
Upon reading the verses, Emperor Taizong immediately commanded the assembly of monks, saying, "Let us conclude this auspicious gathering for now. I shall dispatch emissaries to retrieve the Mahayana scriptures, and then, with renewed dedication, we shall embark on virtuous endeavors once again."
All the officials readily followed his orders. A question arose within the temple: "Who among us is willing to heed His Majesty's decree and journey to the Western realm to pay homage to the Buddha and seek the scriptures?"
Before a consense could be found, Xuanzang swiftly stepped forward from the side and bowed before the Emperor. He spoke humbly, "I am but a simple monk, ready to undertake the labor of a loyal servant. I am willing to travel to the Western realm on behalf of Your Majesty, to seek and acquire the true scriptures, and to pray for the eternal stability of our kingdom."
Emperor Tang's delight was profound. He approached the monk and extended his royal hand to help him rise, saying, "If you, Sangharaja, are willing to display such loyalty and virtue, unafraid of the arduous journey across distant lands and through mountains and rivers, I am more than willing to consider you a brother."
Xuanzang bowed deeply in gratitude.
Emperor Taizong truly embodied great virtue and wisdom. He entered the temple, stood before the Buddha, and performed four prostrations to Xuanzang, addressing him as "Imperial Brother Holy Monk."
Xuanzang couldn't express his gratitude enough. "Your Majesty, what merit or ability do I possess to receive such gracious favor from the heavens? I am determined to dedicate myself to this journey, even sacrificing my life. Should I not reach the Western realm or attain the true scriptures, I would rather face death than return home, for I shall not risk eternal damnation."
He plucked a joss stick with these words and made his vow before the Buddha.
Emperor Tang was incredibly pleased and ordered the royal carriage to return. Plans were set in motion to choose an auspicious date for departure. Official decrees were issued, and the preparations for the journey began. With that, the assembly dispersed, each returning to their respective duties.
Xuanzang returned to Hongfu Monastery. Many monks from the monastery and a few of his disciples had heard about his quest for the scriptures and came to greet him. They asked, "Is it true that you're determined to journey to the Western lands?"
Xuanzang replied, "Yes, it's true."
One of his disciples spoke up, "Master, we've heard people talk about it. The road to the West is long, with dangerous creatures like tigers, leopards, and demons. We're worried that you might not return and your life could be at risk."
Xuanzang explained, "I've already taken a solemn vow. I'll face eternal damnation if I don't retrieve the true scriptures. Besides, I'm grateful for the king's favor and must repay it with unwavering loyalty. Nonetheless, this journey ahead is filled with uncertainties and challenges."
He continued, "My dear disciples, after I depart, whether it takes three or five years, just keep an eye on the pine branches at the temple gate. If they point eastward, I'll return. Otherwise, I won't come back."
His disciples listened attentively, engraving his words in their hearts.
The next morning, Emperor Taizong held court, gathering his officials and military commanders. He wrote a decree authorizing the scriptures retrieval mission and stamped it with an official seal.
A trusted official from the Imperial Observatory reported, "Today's astrological signs indicate a favorable journey, perfect for setting out on a long trip."
The emperor was thrilled.
A palace messenger then entered, announcing, "Royal Master, the Sangharaja is awaiting your command outside the palace gates."
Immediately, Emperor Taizong summoned Xuanzang to the royal hall. "Imperial Brother Holy Monk, today is an auspicious day for your departure. Here is the official decree for passage. I also have a purple-gold alms bowl for you to use during your journey for almsgiving. Choose two reliable attendants for your company. Additionally, a spirited silver-maned horse will aid your travel. You may begin your journey from here."
Xuanzang was overjoyed and expressed his gratitude before accepting the provisions. He had no intention of delaying his departure.
Emperor Taizong arranged his carriage and escorted Xuanzang to the capital's outskirts along with his officials.
The monks from Hongfu Monastery and his fellow disciples had already prepared Xuanzang's clothing and belongings at the departure point.
The emperor instructed them to pack up the luggage and prepare the horses. Afterward, he ordered an official to pour wine and raise a toast to bid Xuanzang farewell.
Emperor Taizong raised his wine cup again and asked, "Imperial Brother Holy Monk, what's your honorable title?"
Xuanzang replied, "As a humble monk, I dare not claim any title."
The emperor continued, "The Bodhisattva mentioned three scriptures in the West. Could you select a title based on those scriptures and be known as 'Sanzang'[1]?"
Xuanzang expressed gratitude once more and accepted the wine, saying, "Your Majesty, alcohol is prohibited for monks. I am just an ordinary person and don't partake in drinking."
Emperor Taizong responded, "Today's occasion is exceptional, different from others. This is a simple wine, and I ask you to make an exception and have just this one cup to accept my farewell wishes fully."
Xuanzang felt compelled to accept, took the cup, and was about to drink. However, he noticed Emperor Taizong lower his head and flick a small amount of dust into the wine.
Perplexed, Xuanzang looked to the emperor for an explanation. With a smile, Emperor Taizong said, "Imperial Brother Holy Monk, on this journey to the Western lands, how long will it be before you return?"
Xuanzang replied, "I expect to return directly to our homeland within three years."
Emperor Taizong added, "Time will pass, years will accumulate, and the journey is distant. As you drink this wine, remember the saying: 'Better to cherish a handful of native soil than to covet gold in a foreign land.'” Xuanzang finally understood the symbolism of the dust and expressed his thanks once again, drinking the wine to the last drop. He bid farewell and left.
Emperor Taizong's carriage turned back towards the palace.
But we still need to figure out what lies ahead. Let's wait and see what happens in the next chapter.
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[1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tripi%E1%B9%ADaka Sanzang is the Chinese translation for Tripitaka, which means three baskets. Both words refer to the three scrolls of the main (fetch) quest. And now, the blasted emperor gave Xuanzang, who had already more than enough names, one more. Actually, it’s two more because both Sanzang and Tripitaka are used to address or talk about Xuanzang.