Calamities in Journey to the West? My heart and form are both void.

Summary

The story revolves around Sun Bai Lian, a mischievous monkey disciple, who delivers a decree from the Jade Emperor to an old boatman (Old Zhou Zi) at the Black Water River. The decree offers to reinstate the boatman's official position, but he chooses to follow his heart and decline. Surprisingly, the Jade Emperor elevates the status of the Black Water River to Heishui Jiang Divine Mansion, effectively granting the old man a higher honor. The narrative explores themes of spiritual freedom, letting go of worldly distinctions, and finding true purpose beyond official ranks.

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