Journey to the West: Starting with the True Lord of the Pure Land

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Chen Jiao followed Bodhi Patriarch into the cave.

The scene before them was completely different from ordinary caves; it was a quiet and spacious palace.

The corridors and pavilions are winding and well-arranged, and although they are built according to the mountain's contours, there is no sign of artificial construction.

With its green tiles and white walls, flying eaves and brackets, birds perch on the eaves, exotic flowers and rare herbs adorn the steps, and a clear spring flows under the covered bridge, the place exudes a vibrant life amidst its tranquility.

Upon arriving at the main hall, it was not grand, but extremely spacious.

The interior of the hall was simply furnished, with only a long, plain white scroll hanging in the center, on which hung a huge character “道” (Dao).

Apart from this one character, there were no other statues or tablets in the hall, making it extremely quiet.

Chen Jiao stood in the hall, gazing up at the character "Dao," and after a moment, softly praised it:

"A single word encompasses the Dao, all dharmas are empty. This place, senior, is truly a pure and tranquil place of practice."

Bodhi Patriarch walked to a quiet room by the window on the left side of the hall. The room contained only two futons and a low table.

Outside the window, one can see a sea of ​​clouds rolling in and distant mountains shrouded in green.

He casually sat down on a futon and smiled upon hearing this:

"Young friend, you flatter me. The greatest truths are the simplest; a single word suffices. Please sit."

Chen Jiao sat down on the prayer mat opposite him as instructed.

The cushion is woven from common mountain vines, yet it feels warm and comfortable to the touch, and has a calming effect.

At this moment, the two young Taoist disciples quietly served tea and fruit.

The tea is a bright green tea soup served in an earthenware bowl, with wisps of steam rising from it. It has a unique and refreshing aroma. It is not a famous variety, but it exudes the spirit of the mountains and fields.

The fruit consisted of several freshly picked wild fruits, red, yellow, green, and purple, with bright colors and glistening with the morning dew.

"The mountain dwelling is newly built and the things are simple, with only some wild tea and mountain fruits that I picked myself. Please don't mind, young friend."

Bodhi Patriarch picked up the earthenware bowl, gesturing for Chen Jiao to drink tea, his expression relaxed, as if he were entertaining an ordinary neighbor or old friend.

"I dare not. This place is tranquil and natural, a true realm for cultivating the Tao. The tea and fruit here also possess the essence of heaven and earth, surpassing even the finest wines and nectars."

Chen Jiao held the bowl and took a small sniff; the aroma of the tea permeated his body, making him feel clear-headed.

I took a sip and felt a warm, refreshing sensation spread from my throat, flowing through my limbs and bones.

He couldn't help but exclaim, "Excellent tea!"

The spiritual fruit melts in your mouth, is exceptionally sweet, and boosts your energy.

"Young friend, you have come from afar from Dongsheng Shenzhou, and now you linger in Xiniu Hezhou for some time."

Bodhi Patriarch put down his teacup, his gaze gentle as he looked at Chen Jiao, as if engaging in casual conversation:

"I wonder if you have gained anything, or if you have any questions?"

Clouds drifted past the window, casting shadows inside.

The cave was quiet, with only the babbling of a clear spring.

Chen Jiao considered for a moment, then said slowly:

"Traveling around, I saw the vastness of the world and the myriad forms of life. I gained some insights, but they were only a glimpse through a narrow window."

The confusion... is as numerous as the sands of the Ganges, arising and ceasing with each passing moment.

For example, in this Western Continent of Hezhou, despite the Buddha's radiant light, the demonic aura is intense. It appears orderly on the surface, but is inwardly chaotic, its origins and future direction unknown.

After hearing this, Bodhi Patriarch smiled slightly, but did not answer directly. He simply said:

"Buddhas have their Buddha lands, demons have their demon territories, immortals have their immortal palaces, and humans have their human realms. Each has its own path and its own destiny."

What you perceive as chaos may be the very source of life; what you perceive as order may be a state of stagnation.

The tides rise and fall, so why try to predict the outcome too early?

His words were enigmatic, seemingly an answer yet not a reply, yet they appeared to reveal profound truths.

Bodhi Patriarch picked up his teacup, but before drinking, he looked gently at Chen Jiao and asked:

"The path of spiritual cultivation is a long and arduous one. Young friend, what do you believe to be the essence of spiritual cultivation?"

Chen Jiao knew this was a test, but he remained calm. After a moment's thought, he said:

"In my humble opinion, the essence of cultivation lies in understanding one's own mind and nature. The mind is the master of the spirit, and nature is the foundation of the Way."

If the mind is unclear, actions will inevitably be biased; if the nature is not seen, the true path will be difficult to attain.

Even with the power to move mountains and overturn seas, if the heart is clouded by worldly dust and the nature is swayed by material things, it is like a blind man carrying a torch—ultimately futile, or even worse, he may set himself on fire.

A hint of approval flashed in Bodhi Patriarch's eyes as he pressed on, "How can one understand the restless and unsettled mind?"

"To tame the restless mind and rein in the wandering thoughts, it all boils down to two words: stillness and tranquility."

Chen Jiao answered slowly:

"Observe your mind in stillness, and delusions will naturally disappear; guard the One in meditation, and your true nature will manifest."

However, this stillness is not a lifeless, dull stillness, but rather stillness amidst movement and tranquility amidst chaos.

Like the tea in this cup, it becomes murky when stirred, but clear when left still.

Cultivation is similar; amidst the bustling world and all sorts of encounters, maintaining a clear and unwavering mind is true tranquility and concentration.

"good."

Bodhi Patriarch nodded, took a sip of tea, and then asked:

"The path is fraught with difficulties, with external demons and internal tribulations constantly arising. Young friend, what do you think is the path worth upholding?"

Recalling his own experience, Chen Jiao replied:

"First, the heart of the Way. Firmly believe and practice it, never giving up. Second, supernatural powers. Protect the Way and defend oneself, neither should be neglected."

Supernatural powers are for application, while the Daoist mind is the essence. If one reverses the order of importance and becomes obsessed with supernatural powers and killing, one is abandoning the essential for the trivial and easily falls into demonic possession.

Three is…

Chen Jiao paused for a moment before speaking:

"Opportunity and like-minded people are key. Going alone is fast, but going together is far. However, opportunity cannot be forced, and the most valuable thing about like-minded people is mutual understanding."

The question-and-answer session was conducted in a harmonious atmosphere.

Most of the questions were posed casually by the Bodhi Patriarch, sometimes touching on the difficulties of spiritual practice, and sometimes on the myriad aspects of life.

Chen Jiao answered cautiously, and his words were always meaningful. Although he did not deliberately show it, his solid foundation, broad knowledge, and profound understanding were revealed unintentionally.

The Bodhi Patriarch listened, sometimes nodding and sometimes smiling, clearly quite approving.

Before we knew it, the tea had been refilled several times, and some exotic fruit had been used.

When discussing the mysteries of the mind, Bodhi Patriarch suddenly put down his teacup, his gaze deep and thoughtful:

"Young friend, where do you think your heart resides?"

His gaze swept over the enormous character "Tao" on the wall, finally meeting the clear gaze of the Bodhi Patriarch. After a moment of contemplation, he slowly spoke:

"The mind resides within the confines of the spirit, arising and ceasing without leaving a trace."

Just as a crescent moon hangs on the eaves, seemingly tangible but intangible; and three stars reflected in a pool, their light points distinct but in reality illusory.

If you can't grasp it, forcing it will only lead to loss.

Only by constantly wiping away the dust and grime, keeping the mind clear and pure, will deluded thoughts naturally disappear and true nature naturally manifest. If one can keep the mind pure and clear, why worry about being misled by the waning moon and the three stars?

Upon hearing this, Bodhi Patriarch's smile deepened, rippling like waves on a lake. He clapped his hands and sighed softly:

"What a wonderful phrase, 'the heart resides within the square inch of the mind'!"

What a wonderful saying, "If you keep your mind pure, why worry about being misled by the waning moon and the three stars!"

The crescent moon is an illusion, the three stars are shadows, but the mind remains clear and the heart is pure.

Young friend, you are indeed insightful and wise!

His laughter was hearty, and the aura around him, which was in harmony with heaven and earth, rippled slightly with this joy, making the entire cave seem a little brighter.

The two young disciples standing by looked at each other in bewilderment. They had followed their master for a long time and rarely saw him so happy.

Seeing that Patriarch Bodhi was pleased, Chen Jiao knew that his answer had hit the nail on the head, and he was also pleased.

The Bodhi Patriarch picked up the plain porcelain teapot and personally poured him half a cup of clear tea. The steam rose, making the tea even more fragrant.

"This humble Taoist's cave dwelling is newly built, and its name was chosen arbitrarily, yet it has been revealed to you, young friend, that it contains such a profound truth."

It is evident that all things possess inherent principles, which reside solely in the observer's single thought.

Chen Jiao bowed to thank him for the tea and replied:

"I speak presumptuously, and I am sorry for my rudeness, senior. It is the natural charm of this place that inspires contemplation."

"No, no." Bodhi Patriarch shook his head, his smile gentle yet profound.

"Only when you have this spiritual platform in your heart can you see this crescent moon and three stars. Mind and matter reflect each other, this is how it is."

As Bodhi Patriarch's laughter subsided, the joy on his face remained. He gazed at the young man in black robes opposite him, who sat upright on the futon, his eyes clear and bright, answering questions with neither arrogance nor servility.

Like seeing a beautiful jade, the more you look at it, the happier you become.

The Bodhi Patriarch's delight at seeing the prey was not without reason.

Discussions on the Dao are like a mirror, reflecting one's own cultivation. The questions asked are about the principles of Heaven and Earth, but what is heard is the echo of the Daoist heart.

Words can be embellished, and wit can be concealed, but true understanding of the principles of heaven and earth, steadfastness in one's own path, and even the clarity and resilience deep within one's heart are what truly matter.

All of them were exposed in the exchange of questions and answers.

What level of attainment did Patriarch Bodhi possess? How could ordinary clever words and witty arguments possibly catch his eye?

This exchange of questions and answers may seem ordinary, but Chen Jiao's words and phrases are not about abstract theories or fancy tricks. Every word comes from his real experience in spiritual practice, and every sentence questions the true nature of his own heart.

He was able to directly point to the essence of the mind from the image of the crescent moon and three stars, and further understand the importance of introspection and self-reflection. This shows that his Daoist heart was clear and pure, and his understanding was extraordinary.

With such excellent material and quality, how could one not be delighted upon seeing it?

Patriarch Bodhi stroked his beard and smiled, looking at Chen Jiao.

He sighed softly, with a mixture of expectation and regret:

"I have established this Taoist temple here. In the future, I will take in a few unworthy disciples and pass on some meager Taoist teachings."

If one or two of your students in the future possess a temperament and aptitude that are even a fraction as clear-headed and insightful as you are today.

This humble monk is greatly pleased and has no further requests.

This statement is no longer a simple compliment; its deeper meaning is almost explicit.

With the power of Patriarch Bodhi, if he were to open his mouth to accept disciples, countless beings throughout the Three Realms would be scrambling to get one.

His words of admiration for Chen Jiao at this moment clearly revealed his intention to recruit and protect him.

The two young Taoist disciples standing in the hall couldn't help but secretly raise their eyes to look at the black-robed guest who could make the patriarch sigh so deeply.

Chen Jiao could not possibly be unaware of the implied meaning in those words; he understood perfectly.

To be favored by someone like Patriarch Bodhi, who would actively express his intention to take you as a disciple, is probably an unparalleled opportunity that 99% of cultivators in the world dream of.

Although Chen Jiao's Xuanjiao incarnation can act freely, his true self, the True Lord, already has a revered master, the Supreme Dao Ancestor.

Such causes and effects are too numerous to be ignored. Even if one is an incarnation, one should not seek refuge elsewhere, lest one disrupt the fundamental principles.

He was destined not to accept this opportunity to learn from a master.

Thoughts flash by in an instant.

Chen Jiao sighed inwardly, but his expression remained unchanged, as if he were merely taking the patriarch's words as pure encouragement.

He rose, bowed deeply to the Bodhi Patriarch, and spoke earnestly:

"You flatter me, senior. I am unworthy of such praise."

Our predecessors were learned in both heaven and humanity, and their teachings encompassed the three religions. It is truly a blessing for all living beings in this land that they were able to establish this pure and tranquil place of practice in Xiniu Hezhou to spread the Dao and impart knowledge.

One day, a unicorn-like figure will surely rise to prominence under his tutelage, ensuring the orderly continuation of his lineage and its flourishing.

"This junior would like to offer my congratulations in advance to the senior."

The words were sincere, both a congratulatory greeting and a reply.

Upon hearing this, Patriarch Bodhi showed no displeasure whatsoever; instead, he smiled and nodded, as if he had expected it.

Only in the depths of those insightful eyes did a trace of understanding and regret flash by.

How could he not see through Chen Jiao's subtle yet resolute evasion?

Bodhi Patriarch's cultivation was extraordinary, though he did not deliberately use his supernatural powers of cause and effect to delve into Chen Jiao's background.

But during our discussion just now, our vital energies interacted.

The Bodhi Patriarch had already vaguely sensed that his origins were unpredictable, his future was fraught with difficulties, and that there was a grand scheme and unfinished business on his path.

The connection with my own lineage is ambiguous and superficial, only scratching the surface.

He was eager to learn from Chen Jiao's talent, and had just tried to test him, but seeing that Chen Jiao already understood, he didn't take offense.

Such a talented person was destined not to be accepted as a disciple to receive the great teachings.

Bodhi Patriarch sighed inwardly, then felt relieved.

The matter of destiny cannot be forced, and this child's firm resolve and clear self-awareness are also advantages.

"Your kind words are appreciated, young friend. I am deeply grateful."

Bodhi Patriarch raised his hand to pour himself half a cup of tea, and also filled Chen Jiao's slightly cool teacup, smiling as he said:

"It is a pleasure to be able to drink tea and discuss philosophy with my young friend here."

…………

Inside the cave, there is no sun or moon; in our leisurely conversation, we lose track of time.

After the spiritual fruits on the table were all gone and the tea had boiled several times, the light outside the window had gone from bright to dark and then back to bright again, and a whole day and night had passed.

Chen Jiao sensed that it was time to say goodbye.

He put down the half-cup of tea that had gone cold, straightened his clothes, stood up, bowed deeply to the Bodhi Patriarch, and said earnestly:

"Today, I have been fortunate to receive guidance from my seniors and listen to the profound voice of the Great Dao. I have benefited greatly and will forever remember it in my heart."

If I achieve something in the future, I will never forget the teachings I received from my predecessors today.

Having troubled you for so long, I dare not disturb your peaceful cultivation any further. Therefore, I shall take my leave now.

Bodhi Patriarch also rose from his meditation cushion, lightly draped his whisk over his arm, and nodded with a smile:

"Young friend, you're too kind. Our discussion is mutually beneficial; there's no question of you bothering me."

Since you are determined to depart, young friend, I will not see you off any further. May your journey be long and smooth, and may you soon attain enlightenment.

Chen Jiao bowed again, and then took something out of his sleeve.

It was the size of a pigeon egg, a precious pearl, its color was dark black, yet not pure ink.

Inside, it seemed as if countless layers of water flowed, sometimes as deep as an abyss, sometimes as shallow as a stream, faintly reflecting the various water phenomena of rivers, lakes, seas, clouds, rain, frost, and snow.

The moment it appeared, the air in the entire hall seemed to thicken.

Furthermore, a pure, vast, and all-encompassing water elemental energy emanated from the pearl, subtly resonating with the serene aura of the cave.

"Senior, you have established this supreme temple and your abode. I, your junior, have no way to congratulate you."

Chen Jiao held the spirit pearl in his hand, his expression sincere:

"This pearl was created by me through my own understanding of the true meaning of water magic, gathering and integrating various water-related elements, and refining them. It is named the 'Treasure Pearl of Ten Thousand Rivers Returning to the Flow'."

He explained briefly:

"This pearl has no offensive or defensive capabilities, but it contains the wonders of water movement."

When placed in a cave, it can nourish the water element; when carried by one, it can also enhance one's ability to respond to water-related energies in rivers, lakes, and seas.

If someone who practices water magic obtains it, it can help them comprehend the true meaning of various water phenomena such as rivers, lakes, seas, clouds, mist, rain, and dew, achieving twice the result with half the effort.

Even without practicing water magic, one can still use this bead to comprehend the true meaning of water, which will benefit one's spiritual state during cultivation.

This is a small token of my respect as a junior, congratulating the senior on the successful completion of the new temple, a place where all teachings converge.

Bodhi Patriarch's gaze fell on the spiritual pearl, a hint of admiration flashing in his eyes.

With his abilities, he could naturally tell at a glance that this pearl was extraordinary. The true meaning of water magic contained within it was pure and powerful. What was even more rare was the Daoist charm within it, which was indeed a treasure for water-based cultivators.

"You're very kind, young friend."

Bodhi Patriarch did not refuse, and accepted the precious pearl with a smile. It felt warm and smooth to the touch, and full of watery texture.

He gently touched the surface of the pearl, and the flowing water seemed to pause slightly before flowing even more smoothly and naturally, as if it were subtly echoing the spirit of the place.

"This pearl possesses a natural spiritual charm and contains profound Daoist meaning. It is excellent, excellent. I, this humble Daoist, will accept it without hesitation."

Bodhi Patriarch placed the precious pearl on the stone table beside him, its deep radiance making the surroundings feel clearer and more luminous.

Then, he changed the subject.

He pointed the whisk to a half-open moon gate at the side and rear of the main hall, his tone calm and natural:

"Young friend, before you depart, I have a matter to trouble you with. There is a library behind there, and the shelves must be covered with some dust."

These are Taoist scriptures, which I have collected over many years. Due to the haste of this transport, they have not been completely arranged properly, and some are not yet in their proper places.

"Young friend, if you don't mind the little chores, could you please wipe and tidy up these bookshelves for me before you leave?"

To immerse yourself in reading Chapter 177, "Excellent Talent and Qualities, the Ancestor Wants to Accept a Disciple" (4k), please click here.