Sun Wukong

In the first chapter, the patriarch Subhuti gives the monkey the surname Sun and the religious name Wukong, usually rendered 'awakened to emptiness.' The name follows the title Handsome Monkey King, bestowed by the anim…

Xiyouji (Journey to the West), novel printed in the late sixteenth century. Birth, training, conflict in heaven, and confinement. Xiyouji (Journey to the West), novel printed in the late sixteenth century.

The stone and the election of a king. On Flower-Fruit Mountain, a stone fertilized by the powers of heaven and earth produces a stone egg. From it emerges a monkey whose eyes cast light up to the celestial palace.

Sun Wukong is also worshiped outside the book. Singapore's National Heritage Board documents Tiong Bahru Qi Tian Gong, dedicated to the Monkey King.

The novel makes Wukong recognizable by his monkey form, iron staff with golden bands, and travel on clouds. After he meets Tang Sanzang, the circlet that can tighten around his head is added.

Novel and religious tradition. The full sequence of adventures related here comes chiefly from the novel printed in the late sixteenth century. Whalen Lai examines earlier materials and possible folkloric antecedents.

Whalen Lai records the circulation of Journey to the West in performances, illustrations, cinema, and television.

The monkey becomes king by fulfilling a collective promise before Subhuti gives him the name Sun Wukong. Although offended by Bimawen's low rank, he is said in the chapter to have tended the horses diligently.

Ruyi Jingu Bang Staff. A magic iron staff that grows or shrinks under the user's will.