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Chapter 12: The Emperor of the Tan

The Celebration and the Demon’s Deed

• The chapter opens with a grand celebration for the deceased, where a demon transforms into a golden cicada amidst a whirlwind of black wind.

• The demon leads Joe Swan and his wife directly to Chapman City, leaving behind Zubiri's spirit in the golden pavilion.

Tragedy Strikes

• Princess Jogging is attacked by the demon, who replaces her soul with that of William. This act sends shockwaves through those present.

• Joe and the maidens mistakenly believe the princess has died after witnessing her fall, prompting them to rush to inform the queen.

A Mother's Grief

• In response to news of her daughter's supposed death, the queen expresses despair while Taichung reveals that their family members are at risk but not all are doomed.

• Despite initial grief, it is discovered that Princess Jogging is still alive when they reach her fallen spot; she is merely unconscious.

Awakening from Darkness

• As Taichung encourages his sister to wake up, she responds groggily and questions their identities, revealing confusion about her brother and sister-in-law.

• Princess Jogging recalls past events involving her husband’s reprimand over a gold hairpin leading to her suicide attempt, which adds depth to her character's backstory.

Reunion in Shadows

• After being brought back from death by King Llama's mercy due to their shared fate as parents left alone with children, Joe Swan recounts how he lost track of his wife during their return journey from darkness.

• Tensions rise as Taichung expresses disbelief at his sister's behavior post-fall; he orders immediate care for her condition upon realizing she has lost touch with reality.

A Twist of Fate

• News arrives that Liu Shuang has returned from delivering melons for King Llama; this moment signifies hope amid chaos as he recounts his experience in the realm of shadows where he met ten kings who acknowledged him favorably.

• The narrative shifts as King Llama orders Liu Shuang’s wife be brought back immediately after learning about Liu’s tragic story involving his wife's suicide and their children left behind. This highlights themes of sacrifice and reunion within familial bonds.

This structured summary captures key moments from Chapter 12 while providing timestamps for easy reference within discussions or studies related to this text.

The Mysterious Return: A Tale of Life and Death

The Princess's Disturbing Behavior

• The initial reaction to the princess's fall was that it had disturbed her, but upon questioning, she repeated her previous statements, suggesting a deeper connection to Liu One.

• Taichung reported that the princess was inside the palace refusing medication, expressing distress about her surroundings, which she described as unrecognizable and gaudy.

• When confronted by the emperor, she recognized him immediately due to their childhood betrothal and their children together, indicating a strong memory despite her condition.

The Emperor's Reaction

• The princess rushed down the stairs to Liu One, demanding explanations for her confusion and expressing disbelief at the situation unfolding around her.

• Joshua noted that while her speech resembled his wife's, he struggled to recognize her fully; this highlights themes of identity and transformation in the narrative.

• The emperor expressed astonishment at witnessing a dead person speaking through a living one—a spectacle never before seen.

Gifts from Beyond

• In an unexpected turn of events, Liu One received his sister’s dowry back from the emperor as if it were a gift rather than repayment of obligations.

• A poem referenced suggests that all human life is predetermined; this ties into themes of fate and destiny surrounding Liu One’s return from death.

Encounter with Xianjiang

• Liu One traveled with gold and silver to find Xianjiang who lived modestly selling water while his wife sold pottery—showcasing contrasts between wealth and poverty.

• Upon arrival at Xianjiang's home with imperial officials, they were bewildered by such high-ranking visitors coming to deliver treasures.

Virtue in Humility

• Despite being offered riches by imperial decree as repayment for past loans they never made, Xianjiang refused out of humility and virtue—emphasizing moral integrity over material wealth.

• They acknowledged their poverty but also their charitable actions towards spirits; this reflects on how true wealth can be measured beyond material possessions.

The Construction of Temples and Ceremonies

Funding and Construction of the Temple

• A significant amount of money was allocated for the construction of a temple and sanctuary, aimed at settling a debt.

• Approximately 50 acres were purchased to build a temple named "Xian Qu," alongside a sanctuary dedicated to the "Cyan."

• The completion of these structures marked the origin of the great temple still standing today.

Invitation to Monks for Ceremony

• Following the construction, an order was sent out inviting monks from across the empire to participate in a grand ceremony honoring forgotten spirits.

• The emperor requested an official historian to select a worthy monk for presiding over this ceremony.

Debate on Buddhist Teachings

Critique of Buddhism

• An official report questioned the validity of Buddha's teachings, suggesting they do not recognize essential relationships between rulers and subjects or parents and children.

• It argued that wealth is determined by human will rather than divine order, contrasting with historical governance during times before Buddhism's introduction.

Defense of Buddhist Principles

• Xiaoyu challenged this critique, asserting that Buddhist teachings promote good deeds and suppress evil, thus ensuring societal survival.

• He emphasized that disregarding virtuous individuals leads to moral decay, advocating for respect towards Buddha’s teachings.

Conflict Among Officials

Disagreement on Doctrine

• A heated debate ensued between Fui and Xiaoyu regarding respect for authority versus Buddha's rejection of familial ties.

• Xiaoyu condemned Fui’s stance as one leading to ingratitude towards parents.

Seeking Consensus

• The emperor summoned high-ranking officials to discuss whether Buddhist practices effectively garnered heavenly favor.

• Officials acknowledged Buddha’s advocacy for purity and compassion while recognizing historical reverence toward multiple religions.

Conclusion on Religious Practices

Decision-Making Authority

• The emperor concluded that all three religions deserve respect and support without reservation, emphasizing his authority in making final decisions on religious matters.

Final Orders

The Journey of a Divine Being

The Selection of the Chosen One

• At 2 AM, three imperial officials gathered all monks at the mountain and river to select the most virtuous among them, known as "the golden cicada," who had divine origins but failed to heed Buddha's teachings.

Early Life and Struggles

• Before his birth, he faced misfortune; his father was murdered by bandits, leading his mother to save him by throwing him into the waters, where he struggled against drowning.

Transformation and Education

• He eventually reached the "mountain of gold," where a monastery guardian rescued him and took charge of his education. At 18, he reunited with his mother and avenged her suffering by defeating her oppressors.

Family Reunion and Recognition

• His father's return from death marked an emotional family reunion that even moved the emperor, who honored them by inscribing their names alongside illustrious figures in the kingdom.

A Life Dedicated to Spiritual Pursuit

• Despite being offered various public positions due to his bravery, he chose a life in the Unzu monastery to seek truth. Known as "the one who floats in the river," he became Chen Zhu An Sang, chosen for a significant ceremony.

Virtue and Leadership

• His selection was deemed wise; having lived a vegetarian lifestyle since childhood and adhered strictly to Buddhist commandments made him morally exemplary.

Ceremony Preparation

• With extensive knowledge of scriptures and hymns, Chen Zhu An Sang was presented before the emperor after following court etiquette. The officials expressed their choice for him to lead a memorial ceremony for unclaimed souls.

Imperial Approval

• The emperor acknowledged Chen Zhu An Sang’s lineage as son of Grand Secretary Chen Kuan Wei, expressing satisfaction with this choice due to his unmatched virtue among monks.

Appointment as Supreme Representative

• The emperor appointed him as chief expositor of faith; Chen Zhu An Sang showed gratitude through traditional gestures while receiving ceremonial garments symbolizing his new role.

Responsibilities Bestowed

• He was tasked with selecting virtuous monks for leadership roles within ceremonies. After completing this mission promptly, he headed towards Metamorphosis Monastery for further preparations.

Festival Planning

• Upon arrival at Metamorphosis Monastery, he organized 1200 diligent monks into groups for an upcoming grand festival dedicated to earth and water over 49 days based on sacred numerology.

Ceremonial Observances

• The festival's date was set on the third day of the ninth month; dignitaries attended respectfully while incense burned during readings from sacred texts underlining communal devotion.

Teachings Delivered

Imperial Procession and Sacred Ceremony

The Emperor's Grand Departure

• The emperor left the treasure room of the golden bell, riding in a dragon and phoenix carriage towards the monastery, accompanied by numerous civil and military officials. Their arrival was marked by respect as they listened to sacred texts and burned incense.

A Display of Splendor

• The imperial procession radiated divine blessings, with 10,000 arrows of pure light competing with the sun's brilliance. A favorable breeze seemed to follow them, emanating from the solemn movements of jade-clad lords who led the march.

Soldiers and Symbolism

• Fierce soldiers armed with swords, axes, and maces contrasted sharply with delicate red silk lamps and artistic incense urns that perfumed their path. All participants moved with indescribable solemnity as dragons danced above them.

The Emperor’s Virtue

• The emperor was portrayed as just and benevolent; his happiness brought greater joy to his people than that of his ancestors. His balanced decisions ensured lasting peace, rivaling even Yao's legacy. Those around him wore luxurious garments but could not surpass his embroidered dragon robe's beauty.

Arrival at the Monastery

• Upon reaching the monastery, music ceased as the emperor dismounted to pay respects to Buddha alongside all officials holding incense sticks. They bowed three times before looking around in awe at the sacred space filled with vibrant banners that appeared to emerge from sunlight or lightning itself.

Ceremony Details and Teachings

Sacred Atmosphere

• Inside the temple, golden images invited contemplation amidst vases filled with sacred flowers creating a refreshing ambiance reminiscent of a forest made from delicate embroidery rather than trees. Aromatic clouds rose from sandalwood incense burners contrasting against trays laden with ripe fruits and sweets.

Ritual Practices

• Monks continuously chanted sacred sutras for abandoned spirits while imperial officials paid their respects first to Buddha then to other revered figures like Master Sanz, who welcomed Taichung along with fellow monks returning to their places after ceremonies concluded.

Proclamation of Law

• A document presented emphasized Buddhism’s foundation on Nirvana; it stated that supreme virtue is vast yet accessible through meditation by various monks tasked with proclaiming law without ceasing—opening doors for salvation while filling vessels of mercy for those suffering affliction.

Pathway to Salvation

• It was noted that all beings would return to truth’s path enjoying heavenly blessings through actions or rest; achieving unity with pure essences is paramount during these unique ceremonies promising freedom from infernal punishment leading towards supreme happiness regions without delay.

Final Encouragement

• Tight Sounds urged monks to remain steadfast in service toward Buddha assuring them their efforts would not be in vain if they maintained dedication throughout their spiritual journey ahead despite challenges faced along this path toward enlightenment and redemption for all souls involved in this practice.

The Ceremony and the Quest for Virtue

The Emperor's Celebration

• After a day of vegetarian meals, 1200 monks express gratitude by bowing to the ground as the emperor returns to his palace, anticipating a grand celebration in seven days.

• As night falls, silence envelops the city, creating an ideal atmosphere for Chan monks to engage in meditation before the upcoming festivities.

Continuation of Ritual Practices

• The next morning, the law master resumes his position and calls upon other monks to continue reciting sutras, maintaining continuity with previous practices.

• Discussion shifts to Bodhisattva Guanyin from Mount Potalaka, who is tasked by Pata Gata to find a worthy individual for sacred scriptures but struggles to find anyone virtuous in Chang'an.

A New Opportunity Arises

• Just as hope wanes, news arrives that Tansit Tsong has summoned virtuous monks for a significant ceremony honoring the deceased.

• Excitement grows when it is revealed that a well-known monk will preside over these rites; he is recognized as one of Buddha's foremost disciples.

The Sale of Sacred Treasures

• Guanyin prepares to sell treasures bestowed by Buddha: an intricately embroidered robe and a nine-ringed staff while wisely withholding powerful items due to unqualified buyers.

• A poorly dressed monk questions Guanyin about her luxurious robe's price (5000 silver pieces), dismissing its value as absurd.

Value Perception and Moral Lessons

• Despite ridicule from another monk regarding her asking price for seemingly ordinary items, Guanyin remains steadfast in her belief about their worth.

• Minister Xiaoyu encounters Guanyin and expresses interest in purchasing her robe after being captivated by its beauty.

Understanding True Worth

• When asked about the high prices of her items, Guanyin explains that their value varies based on one's virtue and adherence to Buddhist principles.

• She elaborates that those who respect Buddhist teachings will not suffer misfortune if they wear her treasures; however, those lacking respect will face dire consequences.

Final Insights on Virtue and Generosity

• Guanyin emphasizes that individuals who disregard Buddhist laws must pay full price for her treasures while virtuous individuals may receive them freely as gifts.

The Encounter with the Emperor

Introduction to the Audience

• The bodhisattva and a monk approach the emperor, seeking an audience in his palace.

• Upon entering, they are greeted by two monks covered in sores who await the emperor's arrival.

Presentation of the Tunic and Staff

• The bodhisattva explains that they encountered monks selling a tunic and staff, which he believes could be used during ceremonies.

• The emperor inquires about the high price of the tunic, which is said to have magical properties that protect its wearer from harm.

Description of Magical Properties

• The tunic is made from silk crafted by skilled artisans and immortal maidens, adorned with intricate designs.

• Wearing it envelops one in a reddish mist that disappears upon removal; it was created at the gates of heaven.

Unique Features of the Tunic

• It contains pearls that shine like stars and emits light comparable to rainbows when stored away or worn.

• The pearls sewn into it possess extraordinary qualities, such as purifying dust and calming winds.

Significance of the Tunic

• Its aura reaches up to heaven, illuminating everything around it; it's described as having unparalleled beauty and power.

• A poem states there is only one truth related to this tunic, emphasizing its spiritual significance for enlightened beings.

Discussion on Special Qualities

Inquiry About the Staff

• The emperor asks about the special features of a staff with nine rings held by the bodhisattva.

• The bodhisattva describes how holding this staff keeps one eternally youthful due to its divine origins.

Historical Context

• This staff was used by significant figures in history, including a patriarch who journeyed through realms without being tainted by earthly dust.

Examination of Treasures

• Impressed by their uniqueness, the emperor requests to examine both treasures closely.

Generosity Towards Virtuous Clergy

• Expressing admiration for Buddhism, he wishes to gift these items to a virtuous monk named Suan Sun without expecting payment.

Acceptance of Gifts

Negotiations and Gifts

Tensions in Negotiation

• The character expresses frustration over the changing terms of a negotiation regarding a robe valued at five thousand pieces of silver and a staff worth two thousand, highlighting the tension in their dealings.

• The bodhisattva clarifies that they made a promise to gift treasures to someone who practices good deeds, indicating a moral stance against monetary transactions.

Acceptance of Gifts

• The bodhisattva decides to fulfill their promise by leaving the treasures with the emperor, emphasizing selflessness as they leave empty-handed.

• Despite the refusal of a banquet prepared in honor of the bodhisattva, it showcases respect from the emperor towards this figure.

Audience and Rituals

• An audience is held where an imperial order is communicated; this reflects hierarchical structures within their society.

• The emperor shares his encounter with monks who gifted him ornate items, demonstrating cultural exchanges and reverence for religious artifacts.

Transformation Through Attire

• Upon wearing the robe and holding the staff, Swan Sang's appearance transforms dramatically, symbolizing spiritual elevation and authority.

• His attire impresses both the emperor and subjects alike, suggesting that clothing can convey status and virtue within this context.

Public Reception

• The enthusiastic reaction from officials indicates societal admiration for spiritual figures; they see Swan Sang as embodying divine qualities akin to Buddha himself.

• As he proceeds through town, people gather to witness him, illustrating his impact on public perception and community engagement with spirituality.

Ceremonial Practices

• At the monastery, Swan Sang performs rituals honoring Buddha while discussing imperial affection for these treasures—highlighting connections between governance and spirituality.

Ceremony and Teachings in the Monastery

The Gathering at the Monastery

• A significant ceremony draws a large crowd, including officials, family members, and citizens of all ages, who gather to hear sacred texts explained.

• The bodhisattva expresses curiosity about the solemnity of the event and the true value of the "golden cicada," questioning if it aligns with Buddhist teachings or personal desires.

Arrival at the Temple

• Upon entering the temple, both characters are astonished by its grandeur, surpassing even renowned temples they had known before.

• The bodhisattva observes a pristine environment around her as she focuses on the golden cicada while important city figures listen attentively to teachings.

Teachings on Mercy and Salvation

• Attendees are enlightened about the significance of almsgiving and mercy in achieving esteem in paradise; this reinforces their understanding of spiritual values.

• Emphasis is placed on continuous life examination and diligent practice as means to gain divine favor and blessings from above.

Discussion on Doctrines

• The master recites key sutras related to life, liberation for deceased souls, and national peace; he explains various passages from significant texts.

• A dialogue ensues regarding different doctrinal approaches; one character questions why only minor doctrines are discussed when greater truths exist.

Encounter with Opposition

• An official interrupts proceedings due to perceived disrespect from two monks; this leads to an outburst from the emperor demanding their arrest.

• Tensions rise as accusations fly regarding adherence to dietary laws among monks during discussions that could disrupt harmony within learning spaces.

Defense of Greater Teachings

• The bodhisattva defends her knowledge of superior doctrines capable of salvation compared to those being criticized by others present.

• She references sacred texts (Tripitaka), asserting their power to liberate suffering souls while challenging others' understanding of these teachings.

Revelation of the Bodhisattva's True Nature

The Bodhisattva's Appearance and Impact

• The bodhisattva reveals her true personality, holding a vase with a willow branch, while many stand beside her, including an emperor who shows deep reverence.

• Officials from both military and civil sectors prostrate themselves in worship, burning incense; everyone present expresses awe and excitement at the extraordinary phenomenon.

• A description of a woman appears amidst a holy light, adorned with gold and jade, symbolizing beauty and purity as she holds a vase that dispenses goodness.

• Her attire includes a pale blue silk tunic and white silk skirt embellished with gold, representing divine elegance; she is accompanied by a parrot promoting mercy and filial piety.

• The vision captivates the crowd so much that they forget imperial matters; officials abandon court etiquette to express their enthusiasm for the bodhisattva.

Artistic Representation of the Bodhisattva

• The emperor commands his most renowned painter to create an urgent sketch of the bodhisattva’s figure after witnessing her divine presence.

• The chosen artist specializes in portraying wise figures; he quickly captures the essence of the bodhisattva for posterity.

• As sacred clouds fade away, an invitation arrives for the emperor to seek out significant scriptures from the West that promise spiritual redemption.

Quest for Sacred Texts

• The journey to retrieve these texts is described as long but essential; only through them can spirits be redeemed and led to heaven.

• The emperor suggests pausing ceremonies until someone retrieves these important scriptures while encouraging attendees to cultivate virtue in the meantime.

Commitment to Mission

• A humble monk volunteers to undertake this arduous journey despite his lack of formal education, expressing loyalty akin to that of a dog or horse.

• The emperor expresses gratitude towards the monk’s willingness to embark on this mission, establishing a bond of brotherhood before he departs on his quest.

• Despite feeling unworthy of such honor, the monk vows not to return empty-handed from his pursuit of enlightenment.

Final Preparations Before Departure

• Taking three sticks of incense in hand before Buddha, he swears fidelity in fulfilling his mission without fail or retreating empty-handed.

Journey to the Western Paradise

The Call to Adventure

• Schwantz is approached by his disciples who question the truth of his vow to journey to the Western Paradise, expressing concern about the dangers that lie ahead.

• One disciple highlights the numerous threats on the path, including wild animals and other perils, questioning how Schwantz plans to protect himself from these dangers.

• Schwantz reassures them of his commitment, stating he has sworn an oath and will fulfill it regardless of what awaits him on this journey.

Preparation for Departure

• The following morning, a formal document is drafted outlining the purpose of Schwantz's journey and requesting assistance for him during his travels.

• An imperial official announces that planetary positions are favorable for long journeys, which pleases the emperor greatly as they prepare for Schwantz's departure.

Gifts and Farewells

• The Master of Law meets with the emperor, who presents Schwantz with gifts including a golden bowl for alms and assures him he will have two companions and a horse for his journey.

• As Schwantz prepares to leave, all monks from the monastery gather with supplies. The emperor personally sees him off at the city gates.

Identity and Significance

• During their farewell, when asked about his name beyond "brother," Schwantz humbly states he has no other name due to his poverty.

• The emperor suggests calling him "Tripitaka," referencing three collections of scriptures in Western Paradise—a fitting title that resonates deeply with Schwantz.

Reflections Before Departure

• Despite being offered wine in celebration, Tripitaka declines due to personal beliefs against alcohol consumption but acknowledges this day’s significance.