Journey to the West 077: The Pilgrims and the Kingdom of Women

Arrival in the Kingdom of Women

As Tripitaka and his disciples continued their journey to the West, they came upon a unique and mysterious land known as the Kingdom of Women (女儿国). This kingdom was unlike any other they had encountered, as it was inhabited entirely by women. The women of this kingdom were known for their beauty and grace, and the kingdom itself was a place of prosperity and harmony, free from the conflicts that plagued other lands.

The pilgrims were intrigued by this unusual place but also cautious, as they had learned that appearances could be deceiving. As they entered the kingdom, they were greeted warmly by the inhabitants, who were curious about these strange travelers from afar.

The Queen of the Kingdom of Women, upon hearing of the pilgrims’ arrival, invited them to her palace. She was particularly interested in meeting Tripitaka, having heard of his wisdom and spiritual purity. The Queen, who was young and beautiful, expressed her desire to learn more about the Dharma and asked Tripitaka to teach her.

The Queen's Proposal

During their stay at the palace, the Queen became increasingly drawn to Tripitaka’s calm demeanor and spiritual insight. She admired his dedication to his mission and his deep sense of compassion. However, her admiration soon turned into a desire to keep Tripitaka in the kingdom. The Queen, who had never married, proposed to Tripitaka, offering to make him her king and rule the kingdom by her side.

This proposal placed Tripitaka in a difficult position. As a monk dedicated to the Dharma, he had taken vows of celibacy and renunciation, and he could not accept the Queen’s offer. However, he was also aware of the need to maintain peace and diplomacy in this foreign land, especially as they were guests in the Queen’s court.

Wukong, ever protective of his master, quickly sensed the danger of the situation. He knew that if Tripitaka were to remain in the kingdom, their journey to the West would be in jeopardy. Wukong, with his usual directness, urged Tripitaka to decline the Queen’s offer and continue their journey.

The Challenge of the River of Childbirth

The Queen, disappointed by Tripitaka’s refusal, nonetheless respected his dedication to his vows. However, she warned the pilgrims that leaving the kingdom would not be easy, as they would have to cross the River of Childbirth (子母河) to reach the next stage of their journey.

The River of Childbirth was a magical river that had the power to cause any who drank from its waters to become pregnant. The women of the kingdom revered the river as a source of life, but it was also a formidable obstacle for anyone attempting to leave the kingdom.

The pilgrims knew they had to find a way to cross the river without succumbing to its effects. Wukong, ever resourceful, devised a plan to avoid the dangers of the river. He suggested that they seek out a special antidote that could neutralize the river’s effects.

The Search for the Precious Water

Wukong learned that there was a special Precious Water (宝水) hidden deep within the mountains that could counteract the effects of the River of Childbirth. This water, however, was guarded by a fierce dragon, who would not easily part with it.

Undeterred, Wukong set out to find the Precious Water. He flew to the mountains, where he encountered the dragon guardian. The dragon, recognizing Wukong’s determination and strength, challenged him to a contest of skill. If Wukong could defeat the dragon in battle, he would be allowed to take the Precious Water.

A fierce battle ensued between Wukong and the dragon, with both demonstrating incredible power and agility. Wukong, using his magical staff and shape-shifting abilities, eventually outmaneuvered the dragon and won the contest. Impressed by Wukong’s prowess and honor, the dragon kept his word and allowed Wukong to take the Precious Water.

Crossing the River of Childbirth

With the Precious Water in hand, Wukong returned to his companions. The pilgrims made their way to the River of Childbirth, careful not to drink from its waters. Wukong sprinkled the Precious Water on the river, neutralizing its magical properties and allowing them to cross safely.

The Queen of the Kingdom of Women, watching from afar, was saddened to see Tripitaka leave but understood that his destiny lay beyond her kingdom. She bade the pilgrims farewell, wishing them success on their journey and hoping that one day they might return.

Continuing the Journey

Having safely crossed the River of Childbirth, the pilgrims continued their journey to the West. The encounter with the Kingdom of Women had tested their resolve and their commitment to their vows. Tripitaka reflected on the temptations they had faced and the importance of remaining true to their mission.

The chapter ends with the pilgrims moving forward, once again united in their purpose and determined to reach the Western Paradise. They knew that their journey would continue to challenge them in unexpected ways, but they were confident in their ability to overcome whatever obstacles lay ahead.