Mountain Gods and Earth Gods: Deities of Mount Luojia and the Gift of Saddle and Bridle in Journey to the West

Brief Introduction

In the mythological system of Journey to the West, Mount Luojia serves as the dojo of Guanyin Bodhisattva and is a significant sacred site where the pilgrimage team receives crucial assistance. The plot point regarding "Mountain Gods and Earth Gods transforming into an old man to gift a saddle and bridle" is typically closely associated with the story of the White Dragon Horse submitting to Tang Monk. This setting reflects the fusion of Daoist deity systems and Buddhist Bodhisattva beliefs in Ming Dynasty novels, showcasing the role of local deities (Mountain Gods, Earth Gods) as executors between the Heavenly Court and the human world, as well as between Buddhism and Daoism.

Core Knowledge Points

1. Deity Hierarchy System: In Journey to the West, Mountain Gods and Earth Gods belong to the grassroots level of deities, responsible for managing a specific territory. Although their magical power is limited, they possess an intelligence network and executive authority, often assisting higher-ranking deities (such as Guanyin) in completing tasks.
2. Incarnation and Metaphor: The transformation of deities into an "old man" is a common narrative technique in classical novels. It symbolizes wisdom and vicissitudes, aiming to lower the guard of mortals and embody the concept of "gods hidden within the marketplace."
3. Symbolism of the Saddle and Bridle: In the book, the saddle and bridle are not merely transportation tools but also symbolize "constraint" and "submission." When the White Dragon Horse wears the golden hoop and is equipped with a saddle and bridle, it marks his transformation from a demon into a protector of the pilgrimage.

Connection to the Content of the Book

In Chapter 15 of Journey to the West, titled "The Snake-Coiling Mountain Gods Secretly Protect; The Eagle-Sorrow Creek Tames the Reins of the Mind-Horse," the White Dragon Horse consumes Tang Monk's riding horse, after which Guanyin Bodhisattva appears to enlighten him. Although the original text primarily features Guanyin personally giving instructions and arranging matters, in folk interpretations and some analyses, this process is often depicted as being executed by the local Mountain Gods or Earth Gods of Mount Luojia, who transform into an old man to gift the saddle and bridle.

This plot connects to the formation of the pilgrimage team: Sun Wukong tames the White Dragon Horse, transforming him into a white horse and preparing the saddle and bridle. At this point, the four members of Tang Monk's disciples (including the horse) are initially formed. The intervention of the deities of Mount Luojia marks Guanyin Bodhisattva's formal involvement and logistical support for the pilgrimage project.

Conclusion

Although the story of "Mountain Gods and Earth Gods gifting the saddle and bridle" features Guanyin as the main character in the original text's details, the Mountain Gods and Earth Gods, as guardians of Mount Luojia, deserve credit for their assistance. This plot not only enriches the mythological color of Journey to the West but also reflects the belief concept in traditional Chinese culture that "gods and buddhas protect and respond to prayers." It is a key node in understanding the process of forming the pilgrimage team.