Journey to the West 003: Wukong Declares Himself "Great Sage Equal to Heaven"

Wukong's Rebellion

After returning to the Mountain of Flowers and Fruit, Wukong was filled with anger and humiliation. He felt deeply insulted by the Celestial Court's attempt to control him with a lowly position as the Keeper of the Heavenly Horses. Determined to assert his power and dignity, Wukong openly defied the Jade Emperor's authority. He declared himself the Great Sage Equal to Heaven (齐天大圣), a title that would place him on par with the gods themselves.

This bold declaration of independence sent shockwaves through the heavens. Wukong solidified his rule on earth, gathering followers and strengthening his kingdom. His rebellious nature and refusal to submit to the celestial powers became central to his identity, inspiring countless tales and modern adaptations like the popular video game Black Myth: Wukong.

The Jade Emperor's Response

The Jade Emperor, alarmed by Wukong's growing power and defiance, convened a council with his celestial ministers to discuss how to deal with the unruly monkey. The deities advised the Jade Emperor to pacify Wukong by recognizing his self-proclaimed title rather than engaging him in direct conflict, which could lead to widespread chaos.

The Jade Emperor agreed to this strategy and sent an envoy to confer the title of "Great Sage Equal to Heaven" upon Wukong, while secretly planning to keep him occupied with trivial duties in Heaven. Wukong, pleased with this recognition, accepted the title and returned to Heaven, where he was given a residence and official seal, believing that he had finally gained the respect he deserved.

Wukong's Discontent in Heaven

Despite being granted his new title, Wukong soon realized that he was still not being taken seriously by the celestial beings. He was given no significant responsibilities or recognition for his talents. This lack of real power and respect fueled his resentment and dissatisfaction. The other deities in Heaven treated him with disdain, viewing him as nothing more than a nuisance.

Wukong’s frustration grew, and he began to cause trouble in Heaven. He refused to follow orders and disrespected the deities, making a mockery of the celestial hierarchy. His rebellious acts and unyielding spirit, as depicted in Journey to the West, are echoed in the action-packed sequences and themes of defiance found in Black Myth: Wukong.

Stealing the Peaches of Immortality

One day, while wandering through Heaven, Wukong discovered the Peach Garden, where the Queen Mother of the West grew peaches that granted immortality. The peaches took 3,000 years to ripen, and the longer they aged, the more potent their effects.

Driven by his insatiable desire for immortality and power, Wukong sneaked into the garden and devoured the peaches. This act of theft further enraged the gods, as the peaches were reserved for the most revered immortals. Wukong’s brazen behavior marked him as a true threat to the stability of Heaven, setting the stage for the epic battles that would follow.

The Heavenly Army Is Mobilized

The Jade Emperor, upon learning of Wukong's actions, could no longer tolerate his defiance. He ordered the mobilization of the Heavenly Army to capture and subdue the Great Sage Equal to Heaven. The celestial forces, led by powerful generals, marched against Wukong, determined to bring him to justice.

However, Wukong, armed with his magical staff, the Ruyi Jingu Bang, and his mastery of the 72 transformations, was more than a match for the heavenly warriors. He fought fiercely, demonstrating his incredible strength and invincibility. His ability to hold his ground against the entire Heavenly Army solidified his status as one of the most formidable figures in Chinese mythology, a legend that continues to inspire stories like those in Black Myth: Wukong.