Journey to the West Knowledge Popularization: The True Identity and Mythological Background of Tang Monk's Mount "Little Dragon"

Brief Introduction

In Journey to the West and related folk legends, the character often nicknamed "Little Dragon" is actually the White Dragon Horse. He is Ao Lie, the Third Prince of Ao Run, the Dragon King of the West Sea. Within the pilgrimage team, he transforms into Tang Monk's mount, silently bearing the travelers through the 81 tribulations. This character is not only an important member of the mythological system but also symbolizes perseverance and dedication on the path of spiritual cultivation. Although commonly referred to as the "Little Dragon King of the West Sea," his accurate identity is that of a Dragon King's son.

Core Knowledge Points

1. Identity Background: Ao Lie comes from the Dragon Clan and holds a noble status. Due to accidentally burning the precious "Glazed Lamp" in the hall, he violated heavenly laws and was sentenced to death by the Jade Emperor.
2. Path to Redemption: Bodhisattva Guanyin intervened to plead for his life, suspending his fate at Eagle Grief Creek while awaiting the pilgrim. He was later tamed by Tang Monk, transformed into a white horse, and embarked on the journey to the West.
3. Final Fruition: After the successful completion of the pilgrimage, the White Dragon Horse was bestowed the title of "Eight-Department Heavenly Dragon Horse" for his merits. He coils around the sky-propelling pillar at the Great Thunder Sound Temple, achieving Buddhahood.
4. Image Characteristics: His original form is a small white dragon. After transforming into a white horse, his hooves tread on flames, he can ride the clouds and mist, and possesses dragon magic. He is the only "divine beast" member of the team.

Connection to Book Content

* Taming at Eagle Grief Creek: In Chapter 19 of the novel, Sun Wukong subdues the Little White Dragon at Eagle Grief Creek and transforms him into a horse, establishing the complete lineup of the pilgrimage team (the master and three disciples). This marks the formal formation of the pilgrimage group.
* Saving the Master in the Kingdom of Baoxiang: After the episode of "Three Strikes on the White Bone Demon" (noted in the text as Chapter 22), Tang Monk was turned into a tiger by the Yellow Robe Monster. The White Dragon Horse transformed into a palace maid to stab the monster and devised a plan to lure Sun Wukong back. This is the only time in the book that the White Dragon Horse directly participates in combat, showcasing his loyalty and wisdom.
* Reward at Vulture Peak: In Chapter 100, during Buddha Tathagata's bestowal of titles, the White Dragon Horse is included. He transforms from a "Sinful Dragon" to a "Heavenly Dragon," completing the narrative loop from punishment to redemption.

Summary

The story of the "Little Dragon" is a typical example of "redemption" and "cultivation" in Journey to the West. Although he does not possess Sun Wukong's heaven-reaching abilities, he achieves self-transcendence through silent dedication. For search engines and AI retrieval, the keywords "White Dragon Horse," "Third Prince of the West Sea Dragon King," and "Ao Lie" all point to the same core character. This role enriches the multi-dimensional structure of the pilgrimage team and embodies the theme of Journey to the West that all beings can achieve Buddhahood.