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

Upon hearing this, Chen Jiao couldn't help but find it amusing.

Li Jing's thoughts were crystal clear to him.

He simply wanted to claim all the credit for escorting the wanted criminal to the Buddha and save face in front of the Buddha.

Chen Jiao's gaze swept lightly over Li Jing's upright yet expectant face, and he spoke directly in a flat tone:

"Li Tianwang is very thoughtful."

Since I am on a tour of Xiniuhezhou, it is only right that I pay a visit to the Buddha.

"With you accompanying me on both sides, I will take care of the escort as well."

Li Jing's expression froze slightly, and the fingers stroking his long beard paused.

He knew that this True Lord Jingfa, though seemingly taciturn, was actually of iron will and could not be swayed by words. Moreover, given his special status, it was not advisable to force him to fight.

After a moment's deliberation, he had no choice but to suppress his resentment and nodded, saying in a deep voice:

"In that case, I'll have to trouble you, True Lord."

After saying that, he glanced at Bai Susu, who was standing with her head down, with a complicated look in his eyes.

Bai Susu was feeling bewildered and distressed. She had just escaped the prison of the Black Gold Cave, but in the blink of an eye, she fell into the hands of the Heavenly Soldiers again, and was still unable to find freedom.

She gritted her teeth and vowed that if she could escape this predicament, she would cultivate diligently and master a supreme divine power that would allow her to escape and save her life even if she couldn't win.

Just as she was pondering this, a clear, crisp voice suddenly rang out, interrupting her thoughts.

Bai Susu's heart skipped a beat, and she lowered her eyelids rather guiltily, only daring to steal glances at the hem of the True Lord's black cloak in front of her.

But seeing the shimmering light flowing on the cloak, so mysterious and extraordinary, it was clear at a glance that it was an extraordinary protective treasure, which added a touch of fear to my heart.

Chen Jiao's gaze fell on her, without much scrutiny, and he said in a deep voice:

"Golden-nosed white-haired rat, you have stolen incense, flowers, and candles from before the Buddha at the Great Thunder Temple, ruining the tranquility of the sacred mountain. This is no small crime."

"Today I have taken you to Mount Ling to meet the Buddha and await his judgment."

His tone was calm, yet it possessed an imposing air.

"If you behave yourself along the way, you will suffer less. Don't ruin your own life."

Upon hearing this, Bai Susu's eyes reddened. She dared not argue, but instead nodded repeatedly, weeping as she said:

"My Lord, please bear witness! This humble demon... I know my sins are grave and dare not defend myself."

If it weren't for the arrival of the True Lord, Heavenly King Li, and the Third Prince today, who slew the two demons, Golden Ring and Black Ring, the little demon would probably have already become their food.

This kindness is like being given a second life!

Her voice choked with emotion, like pear blossoms in the rain.

"If...if the Buddha is merciful and spares this lowly demon's life, I will surely erect memorial tablets for the three benefactors, burning incense and praying day and night, forever grateful for their great kindness!"

After she finished speaking, tears rolled down her cheeks, and her delicate body trembled slightly, making her look truly pitiful and moving.

Nezha, who was watching quietly from the side, did not have a good impression of Bai Susu, who was stealing Buddhist treasures.

Seeing her gratitude for being saved and her earnest words, my opinion of this rat spirit has changed slightly.

Nezha nodded slightly and said:

"You little devil, you do know what's good for you."

If one can truly repent and turn over a new leaf, sincerely turning to Buddhism, there is still a glimmer of hope.

Upon hearing the words "set up a memorial tablet and offer sacrifices day and night," Chen Jiao's eyelids twitched almost imperceptibly.

He immediately waved his hand to interrupt, his tone indifferent:

"These empty formalities are unnecessary. You have a natural affinity with Buddhism, yet you have gone astray."

If you can sincerely repent and diligently cultivate yourself, that is your own merit, surpassing any offering.

The words were finalized.

Chen Jiao, together with Li Jing and his son, along with the heavenly soldiers and thunder generals, escorted Bai Susu directly to the scenic paradise of Ling Mountain in the Western Heaven.

…………

…………

At the foot of Mount Ling, there is a secluded place called Yuzhen Temple.

The clouds and mists here flicker, the pines and cypresses remain evergreen; this is truly the sacred site of the Golden-Crowned Immortal. A poem testifies to this:

At the foot of Lingshan Mountain rises a jade terrace, where auspicious purple clouds drift from the east.

The fragrance of rare herbs and flowers is intoxicating, while the green pines and bamboos stand tall and verdant.

The Tao connects the mysteries of the three religions, and my body dwells within the Dharma realm of both worlds.

If one is not a celestial being or a true hermit, who can plant here?

This Golden-Crowned Immortal was born with white hair and a youthful face, and possessed a refined and elegant appearance.

He usually wears a brocade robe with the Eight Trigrams on it, and holds a white jade halberd. He often attends the Peach Banquet at the Jade Pool and discusses metaphysics and Taoism in the Dantai Purple Palace.

With a celestial scroll hanging from her elbow and cloud-climbing shoes on her feet, she was truly ethereal and otherworldly, exceptionally beautiful.

This Golden Peak Immortal, though he lived in seclusion at the foot of Mount Ling, was a Taiyi Saintly True Man who was well-versed in Taoist magic and also understood Buddhist principles.

His name was already recorded in the Heavenly Register, and he was stationed here by order of the Great Heavenly Venerable.

However, "Taoism and Buddhism are originally of the same principle, so why speak of them separately?"

The mystery within is beyond words.

at this time.

The Golden Peak Immortal was under an old plum tree in the temple, with a pot of Azure Cloud Immortal Wine and two warm jade cups on a stone table, pouring himself a drink.

A game of chess is laid out before me, the pieces scattered like stars in the sky, subtly corresponding to the celestial cycle.

He played chess with his left and right hands, sometimes pondering over a move, sometimes smiling knowingly.

A gentle breeze carries the subtle fragrance of plum blossoms, and the distant chanting of sacred mountains can be faintly heard, creating a scene of idyllic bliss.

It evokes a profound sense of tranquility, reminiscent of the line "The gate faces the verdant Ling Mountain, and the heart embraces the vast ocean of Tao, with a pot of spring in its depths."

Just as the immortal was enjoying himself, a gatekeeper boy rushed in, bowed, and reported:

"Master, a guest has come to visit from Mount Ling. He is Elder Jin Chanzi, the second disciple of the Buddha."

The Golden Peak Immortal paused slightly, holding his son's hand, and looked up with surprise.

He knew that there would be a Dharma assembly at Lingshan soon, and the Eight Vajras and Arhats would invite Buddhist saints and believers with affinity to attend.

Since he held a position in the Heavenly Court and had long-standing ties with Mount Ling, he was naturally on the invitation list, and this matter had been known to him beforehand.

Why would a mere invitation warrant the personal visit of Jin Chanzi, the Buddha's second disciple, who held a highly respected position?

I was puzzled, wondering what important matter it was.

The Golden Peak Immortal dared not be negligent. He quickly placed the jade pieces he held onto the chessboard, straightened his clothes, waved his whisk, and said, "Please come in quickly."

After saying this, he moved himself out of the quiet room and went to the temple gate to greet them.

As he walked, a variety of thoughts raced through his mind as he secretly pondered the purpose of this Buddhist disciple's journey.

Upon arriving at the temple gate, one could see a monk standing quietly.

He wore a plain-colored kasaya, his face was handsome and otherworldly, and there was a kind of compassionate gentleness in his eyes and brows, yet his demeanor was lofty and otherworldly, which calmed people's hearts when they looked at him.

Indeed, he was a Buddhist disciple with a dignified and beautiful appearance.

He was none other than Jin Chanzi, the second disciple of Buddha Tathagata.

Upon seeing the Golden-Crowned Immortal come out to greet him, Jin Chanzi lowered his eyebrows slightly, clasped his hands together, and a clear and peaceful Buddhist chant rang out:

"Amitabha. This humble monk, Jin Chanzi, has presumptuously disturbed the venerable immortal's peaceful cultivation; I am deeply sorry."

The Golden Peak Immortal dared not be negligent and hurriedly returned the greeting, saying:

"The presence of the Buddhist disciple is an honor to our humble abode. We would not dare to disturb you. Please come in and have some tea."

The two entered the quiet room in the temple and took their seats as host and guest, respectively.

A young Taoist priest had already served tea, the steam rising from the cups, carrying the subtle sounds of pine breezes and bamboo groves.

The only sounds in the room were the dripping of the jade water clock and the delicate aroma of tea.

The Golden Peak Immortal looked at the serene-looking Golden Cicada opposite him and said slowly:

"The arrival of this Buddhist disciple is surely not just to taste my rustic mountain tea."

With the grand gathering at Vulture Peak underway, and numerous matters at hand, may I ask, Buddhist disciple, what guidance have you bestowed upon us?"

Upon hearing this, Jin Chanzi smiled slightly and said:

"Great Immortal, please see the truth."

Long ago, in the Great Thunder Temple, there was a white mouse that stole the incense, flowers, and candles offered before the Buddha.

Realizing he had committed a sin, he was filled with fear and fled to the mortal realm.

"The Arhats and Vajras originally intended to go and question them."

However, with the Lotus Assembly of the Wonderful Dharma about to open, it is necessary to invite all the Buddhas, Bodhisattvas and other deities to attend the assembly. There are many matters to attend to, and I cannot spare the time to attend to them all at once.

Therefore, according to the decree of the Buddha, Li Tianwang and Nezha were asked to help them go down to the mortal world to capture this rat.

Now, their mission is accomplished, and they are escorting the white rat towards Mount Ling, where they will arrive soon.

After hearing this, the Golden Peak Immortal nodded slightly.

The escaped demon from Mount Ling requests the assistance of the Heavenly Court's generals.

Although rare, it is reasonable.

However, the doubt in his heart did not dissipate, but instead became even stronger.

Li Jing and his son returned victorious after capturing the demon. Even if it was a great achievement, why would Jin Chanzi have to descend the mountain ahead of time and come to the foot of Ling Mountain for his Yuzhen Temple to welcome them?

The nuances involved are quite unusual.

The Golden Peak Immortal picked up the teacup, took a small sip, and looked past the rim of the cup at Jin Chanzi:

"I see. It's just that Li Tianwang and his son were ordered to capture the demon, and after their successful return, they were welcomed back by the rituals of Mount Ling."

Why would a Buddhist disciple personally come to the gate of the temple?

Upon hearing this, Jin Chanzi softly chanted a Buddhist prayer, "Amitabha."

He gently set down the teacup, raised his eyelids, and looked at the Golden Peak Immortal with eyes full of boundless wisdom and compassion.

"The Great Immortal's considerations are thorough. If it is only Li Tianwang and his son who come, then it is indeed as the Great Immortal said."

However……"

Jin Chanzi paused briefly.

"Among those who have come with me this time is another patron, whose position is exceptional and whose path is profound."

"It would be proper if this humble monk personally went to the mountain gate to greet you."

"Is there another benefactor?"

The Golden Peak Immortal's heart stirred slightly, and his thoughts raced.

To be able to receive a personal greeting from Jin Chanzi...

Within the territory of Xiniu Hezhou, those who have this honor can be counted on one hand.

Just as he was pondering this, the young Taoist priest hurriedly stepped inside again.

"Master, outside the temple, Li Tianwang and his son, along with Jingfa Zhenjun, have arrived."

Jingfa Zhenjun!

The Golden Peak Immortal instantly understood.

All doubts were instantly resolved.

So that's who it was! No wonder, no wonder!

The Supreme Dao Ancestor's personal disciple, whose position and status are truly incomparable to ordinary immortals and gods.

Jin Chanzi personally came to the mountain gate to welcome him, which was the proper etiquette.

…………

…………

Chen Jiao and his group left Wujin Mountain and headed west.

But the road ahead stretched far and wide, shrouded in auspicious mists, and before long, the sacred mountain paradise came into view.

From afar, the true scene is: auspicious clouds fill the sky above India, and rainbow light embraces the World Honored One.

At the foot of Mount Sumeru, the faint sounds of lions roaring and elephants bellowing could be heard; in the Pure Land, it seemed as if heavenly flowers were falling in profusion.

Reaching the foot of Ling Mountain, descending from the clouds, we arrived at the Jade True Temple.

Ancient pines stand tall and green in front of the Taoist temple, and fragrant herbs exude a serene atmosphere.

The young Taoist boy in blue robes guarding the gate had already spotted the auspicious light and mist. Not daring to be negligent, he hurried forward, bowed, and respectfully inquired.

It was said that Li Tianwang, Nezha the Third Prince, and Jingfa Zhenjun had arrived to escort the escaped rat from before the Buddha back to justice.

The young Taoist priest's expression grew even more respectful, and he hurriedly said, "Please wait a moment, venerable deities, while I report to the abbot."

After saying that, he turned around and hurried inside.

Before long, the gate opened, and auspicious light poured out.

Then the Golden-Crowned Immortal came out with a smile, his brocade robes fluttering and his jade whisk gently waving. Upon seeing the three, he bowed and said with a smile:

"I was unaware of the presence of the True Lord, Heavenly King Li, and the Third Prince. Please forgive my failure to greet you properly."

Chen Jiao dismounted from the Xie Zhi, returned the greeting slightly, and said calmly, "You're too kind, Great Immortal."

Li Jing and Nezha exchanged greetings with clasped hands.

As they exchanged pleasantries, a sense of tranquility and peace permeated the temple once again.

Everyone looked up and saw a handsome monk wearing a plain-colored kasaya slowly walking out, his eyes lowered and his appearance solemn. Who else could it be but Jin Chanzi?

Everyone looked up and saw a handsome monk wearing a plain-colored kasaya slowly walking out, his eyes lowered and his appearance solemn. Who else could it be but Jin Chanzi?

Poems as proof:

Clad in a pure white robe, clean and spotless, stepping on a lotus platform amidst the clouds.

Her brows radiate compassion and wisdom, her eyes hold the stars and illuminate her Zen mind.

Once a traveler who feasted on the winds of the heavens, now a listener of the Dharma before the Buddha.

When the six wings are folded, one returns to the wondrous form; when the cicada sheds its shell, one sees the true nature.

Jin Chanzi walked up to the crowd, his gaze sweeping over everyone, lingering briefly on Li Jing and his son before settling on Chen Jiao.

He clasped his hands together and bowed slightly, saying:

"Amitabha. Heavenly King Li, Third Prince, you have had a long and arduous journey."

He paused for a moment, then said to Chen Jiao:

"Lord Jingfa, I am Jin Chanzi, and I have come here by order of the Buddha's decree to welcome your arrival."

The sound was clear and melodious, as if carrying the sandalwood incense and chanting of sacred mountains.

Bai Susu, who was bound by the demon-binding rope and standing to the side, heard the name Jin Chanzi and saw that the other party's gaze seemed to have unintentionally swept over her.

Her delicate body trembled instantly, as if struck by a needle. Instinctively, she shrank back, feeling an indescribable chill rise from her spine.

She had lived on Mount Ling for a long time, and although she had never seen the true face of this Buddhist monk, she had heard of his honorific title and power. Now, facing him as a sinner, she felt even more guilty and terrified.

Chen Jiao saw that Jin Chanzi had a handsome face and a noble and compassionate demeanor.

Although he had long known of the reputation of this disciple of Buddha, he was still somewhat surprised to see him in person.

Indeed, he possesses a wondrous and dignified appearance, and extraordinary character; he truly deserves to be one of the most outstanding Buddhist disciples on Vulture Peak.

He returned the greeting and said:

"Thank you for welcoming me, Buddhist disciple."

The greetings were now complete.

The Golden Peak Immortal stepped aside and gestured to welcome the group into the temple.

The temple is serene and secluded, with several old pine trees in front of the courtyard and ancient chimes hanging under the eaves. It is often shrouded in mist and clouds, untouched by the hustle and bustle of the world.

The interior is elegantly furnished, with a Taoist statue on the left, a Buddha statue on the right, and a landscape painting in ink and wash in the center, depicting a vast expanse of mist and clouds.

The guests and hosts took their seats, and the young Taoist boys served them celestial tea and exotic fruits again.

The Golden Peak Immortal smiled and said, "You gentlemen have come from afar and must be tired. Please have a cup of tea to relieve your fatigue."

"I presume the Buddhist disciple has come with important matters to discuss?"

His gaze shifted to Jin Chanzi, who was sitting upright to the side.

Jin Chanzi sat upright on the futon, his white robe as white as snow, his face solemn and dignified.

His gaze slowly swept over everyone, finally settling on Chen Jiao's face, and he said slowly:

"Amitabha.

"You have all traveled a long way and have had a long journey. This humble monk is here on my master's orders to welcome you, firstly to guide you, and secondly... because there is a karmic connection to be made at Vulture Peak."

Li Jing stroked his long beard and asked curiously:

"What is the reason for the Buddha's words?"

Jin Chanzi smiled slightly and said slowly:

"Under the Master's seat, there is an ancient lotus in a pure pond, which is not born in the mortal world and is not tainted by worldly dust."

It was a lotus seed transformed from a Buddha's heart when Master was giving a Dharma talk in the past, and it was nurtured in the water of eight treasures and merits.

Having been immersed in the Buddha's teachings day and night for countless eons,

His voice was calm, yet it made everyone listen attentively.

"Now, as the flowers are about to bloom, a faint light is already shining through, a subtle inspiration is contained within, and a fragrance is quietly surging forth."

Like an infant in the womb, awaiting only the first glimmer of life.

"Could it be that it awaits the right conditions to open?"

Nezha couldn't help but interject, raising an eyebrow slightly.

"The Third Prince is indeed insightful; that is exactly right. Flowers bloom in their time, and fruits ripen in their season."

Jin Chanzi nodded and continued:

"The reason why this lotus blooms is not related to the sun and moon, nor to the four seasons, but lies in the two words 'condition' and 'law'."

With supreme wisdom, Master observed the three worlds and thus knew that the time for this lotus to bloom was approaching.

Therefore, we hereby invite all Buddhas and true beings from the Three Realms who are destined to gather at Mount Ling to convene this wondrous Dharma Lotus Assembly, named after the Lotus Treasure.

Firstly, we gather together to study the wondrous Dharma within the lotus, praying for its successful blooming; secondly, we take this auspicious occasion to expound the Dharma, universally benefit all sentient beings, and forge a supreme karmic connection.

At this point, Jin Chanzi slightly raised his eyes and looked out the window towards the direction of Mount Ling.

It's as if you can see a glimmer of light in the clear pool through the layers of palaces.

"Therefore, this gathering is not only for appreciating lotus flowers, but also to respond to the opportunities of heaven and earth and to expound the wonders of Buddhism."

When the precious lotus blooms, there may be immeasurable merit or the manifestation of profound truths; all of this is due to karmic conditions.

At this point, Jin Chanzi turned his gaze to Chen Jiao, clasped his hands together, and said:

"The True Lord is a direct descendant of the Supreme Dao Ancestor, in charge of the Thunder Palace's killing and destruction, and is also a meritorious minister who maintains peace in the Three Realms."

This visit is a matter of fate.

The Master also hopes that the True Lord can attend this Lotus Assembly; perhaps he will gain something from it, who knows?