Journey to the West 071: The Pilgrims and the River of Heaven

The River of Heaven

As Tripitaka and his disciples continued their journey westward, they encountered a vast and seemingly impassable body of water known as the River of Heaven (天河). The river was wide and deep, with currents so strong that they could sweep away anything that attempted to cross. The pilgrims knew they had to find a way to get across, as the river stood between them and their destination.

The River of Heaven was no ordinary river. It was said to be the boundary between the mortal world and the celestial realms, and it was guarded by a powerful deity known as the Heavenly River Dragon (天河龙王). The dragon was a formidable creature, with the power to control the river’s currents and summon storms at will.

Seeking Help

Realizing that they could not cross the river on their own, the pilgrims decided to seek the help of the Heavenly River Dragon. Wukong, using his ability to transform, turned into a small fish and swam to the bottom of the river to find the dragon’s lair.

Upon reaching the lair, Wukong respectfully requested the dragon’s assistance in helping the pilgrims cross the river. The Heavenly River Dragon, however, was initially reluctant to help. He was bound by celestial law to guard the river and prevent mortals from crossing without permission.

The Dragon’s Test

The Heavenly River Dragon, curious about the pilgrims’ mission, decided to test their resolve. He challenged them to prove their worthiness by completing a task. The task was to retrieve a magical pearl that had been lost in the depths of the river. The pearl was said to possess great power and wisdom, and only those with pure intentions could find it.

Wukong accepted the challenge and dove back into the river. He searched the murky depths, using his keen senses and determination to locate the pearl. The journey to find the pearl was fraught with dangers, including treacherous currents, hidden whirlpools, and other mystical creatures guarding the treasure.

The Pilgrims’ Success

After a long and difficult search, Wukong finally found the magical pearl. He returned to the surface and presented it to the Heavenly River Dragon, proving the pilgrims’ worthiness. The dragon, impressed by their determination and purity of heart, agreed to help them cross the River of Heaven.

The dragon used his powers to calm the river’s currents and create a bridge of water that the pilgrims could safely cross. As they made their way across the bridge, the pilgrims marveled at the beauty and majesty of the celestial river, which sparkled with the light of the stars above.

Continuing the Journey

With the River of Heaven behind them, the pilgrims continued their journey westward. They were grateful for the Heavenly River Dragon’s assistance and the lessons they had learned about perseverance and the importance of staying true to their mission.

The chapter ends with the pilgrims moving forward, their spirits lifted by their successful crossing and the knowledge that they had once again overcome a great challenge on their path to enlightenment.