Journey to the West 010: The Encounter with the White Dragon Horse

The Need for a Steed

As Tripitaka and his disciples continued their pilgrimage to the West, they found themselves in need of a reliable steed to carry the monk through the harsh and varied terrain they encountered. Although the disciples were capable of extraordinary feats, Tripitaka, being a mortal, required a mount to ease the journey’s physical demands. The group pressed on, hoping to find a suitable horse along the way.

The White Dragon King’s Fate

Unbeknownst to them, their path would soon cross with a powerful being who had fallen from grace. The White Dragon King, a once-noble dragon, had been banished from the heavens and transformed into a white horse as punishment for setting fire to a valuable pearl. The dragon had been condemned to live in the mortal realm, specifically in a river that the pilgrims would soon encounter.

When Tripitaka and his disciples arrived at the river, the White Dragon, in his horse form, sensed their approach. Driven by his longing for redemption and a return to his former glory, the White Dragon decided to test the travelers, hoping that aiding them might be a path to atonement.

The Dragon’s Attack

As the group attempted to cross the river, the White Dragon suddenly emerged from the water and attacked. His appearance was fearsome—although he was in the form of a horse, his true draconic nature made him a formidable adversary. The disciples were caught off guard but quickly rallied to protect Tripitaka.

Wukong, recognizing the dragon’s strength and potential danger, immediately took charge. He engaged the White Dragon in battle, using his agility and cunning to counter the dragon’s powerful attacks. Zhu Bajie and Sha Wujing joined the fight, their combined efforts pushing the dragon back. The battle was intense, with the river churning violently as the combatants clashed.

Guanyin’s Intervention

Just as the battle reached its peak, the Bodhisattva Guanyin appeared, bringing the fight to an abrupt halt. She revealed the White Dragon’s true identity to the pilgrims and explained the dragon’s situation. Guanyin then offered the White Dragon a chance at redemption: if he agreed to serve as Tripitaka’s steed and faithfully accompany the pilgrims on their journey, he would be forgiven and eventually restored to his rightful place in the heavens.

Eager to atone for his past mistakes, the White Dragon humbly accepted Guanyin’s offer. With her divine intervention, the White Dragon was transformed into a magnificent white horse, strong and graceful, perfectly suited to carry Tripitaka on the long and arduous journey ahead.

The White Dragon Horse Joins the Journey

With the White Dragon now serving as Tripitaka’s steed, the group was complete. The White Dragon Horse proved to be more than just a mount; his speed, endurance, and innate nobility made him a valuable addition to the team. He carried Tripitaka safely through many difficult terrains, allowing the disciples to focus on protecting their master from other threats.

This chapter highlights themes of redemption and transformation, as the White Dragon King is given a second chance to prove his worth and earn forgiveness. These themes resonate deeply in Journey to the West and are reflected in modern adaptations like Black Myth: Wukong, where characters are often depicted on paths of redemption and self-discovery.