The Teacher-Student Relationship between Sun Wukong and Patriarch Bodhi

Introduction

• The relationship between Sun Wukong and Patriarch Bodhi has touched many people.
• Although Patriarch Bodhi's role in "Journey to the West" is brief, its significance is great.
• He taught Sun Wukong not only skills but also life principles.

Sun Wukong's Departure

• Sun Wukong discovered the shackles of life and death in the Water Curtain Cave of Flower Fruit Mountain and decided to pursue immortality.
• The theme of "Journey to the West" can be condensed into "immortality."
• To seek immortality, Sun Wukong went looking for Patriarch Bodhi, ate heavenly peaches, stormed the underworld, and ate ginseng fruit, among other things.

The Identity and Significance of Patriarch Bodhi

• Patriarch Bodhi possesses a Buddhist name, Taoist attire, and Confucian thought.
• He is Sun Wukong's enlightenment teacher, helping him complete the refinement of his nature.

Sun Wukong's Temperament Refinement

• After becoming a disciple, Sun Wukong began seven years of daily work and study.
• This period was meant to refine his temperament.
• After seven years, Patriarch Bodhi started imparting the great way, and Sun Wukong showed a strong desire for knowledge.

Learning the Art of Immortality

• Sun Wukong expressed his willingness to learn any skill that could lead to immortality.
• Patriarch Bodhi tested Sun Wukong's interest in various doctrines and ultimately taught him the immortality mantra and 72 transformations.
• The "72 transformations" helped Sun Wukong break free from the shackles of life and death.

The Parting of Teacher and Student

• The curiosity of his fellow students led Wukong to showcase his skills, prompting reproach from Patriarch Bodhi.
• Patriarch Bodhi resolutely expelled Wukong to protect him from the dangers brought about by his skills.
• As they parted, Patriarch Bodhi foresaw that Wukong would cause trouble, but it was a necessary path for his growth.

Wukong's Journey of Growth

• On the journey to the west, Sun Wukong protected Tang Monk and grew into the Fighter Buddha.
• He went through 81 trials and ultimately completed his transformation.

The Significance of Patriarch Bodhi's Teaching

• Patriarch Bodhi's teaching was not only about skills but also about enhancing Wukong's temperament.
• Wukong ultimately understood that there is no absolute freedom in the world, finding peace in his heart.

Conclusion

• Although Patriarch Bodhi does not reappear in "Journey to the West," his influence on Wukong is profound.
• This teacher-student relationship is not only the starting point of Wukong's growth but also the enlightenment of his life philosophy.