Sun Xingzhe: An Analysis of the Early Dharma Name of the Great Sage Equal to Heaven in Journey to the West

Brief Introduction

In the Ming Dynasty novel Journey to the West by Wu Cheng'en, Sun Xingzhe is a significant title given to the protagonist Sun Wukong after he was accepted as a disciple by Tang Seng. This name not only marks the formal establishment of the master-disciple relationship but also symbolizes Sun Wukong's transformation from a demonic immortal to a Buddhist practitioner. Although the public is familiar with him as "Sun Wukong" or the "Great Sage Equal to Heaven," during the early stages of the pilgrimage, "Sun Xingzhe" was the most common address used by Tang Seng, containing profound religious and cultural implications. For those studying the character arc in Journey to the West and Buddhist thought, understanding the title "Sun Xingzhe" is crucial.

Core Knowledge Points

* Origin of the Name: After Sun Wukong took Tang Seng as his master, Tang Seng named him "Sun Xingzhe" based on his surname "Sun" (derived from the homophone of "Husun" [monkey] given by Patriarch Bodhi) combined with the Buddhist term "Xingzhe" (referring to a Buddhist practitioner). In the original text, Tang Seng states: "I shall bestow a Dharma name upon you, which shall be Sun Xingzhe."
* Difference from "Sun Wukong": "Sun Wukong" is the Dharma name bestowed by Patriarch Bodhi, meaning "Enlighten the Mind," representing his original magical power and Daoist lineage. In contrast, "Sun Xingzhe" is a secular name or nickname given by Tang Seng, emphasizing his identity as a "practitioner" within the pilgrimage team. It carries a sense of constraint and discipline, reflecting Tang Seng's authority to manage him.
* Buddhist Meaning: In Buddhism, a "Xingzhe" refers to a practitioner who has taken novice vows but not yet full ordination. This implies that although Sun Wukong has a heart inclined toward goodness, his mind is not yet settled, and he must undergo trials to become a Buddha. This corresponds to the theme of the "Mind Monkey" returning to righteousness in the book, namely restraining wild nature and converting to the right path.

Connection with Book Content

1. The Critical Turning Point in Chapter 14: In Chapter 14 of Journey to the West, titled "The Mind Monkey Returns to Righteousness, The Six Thieves Vanish Without a Trace," Tang Seng reveals the Tight Fillet Spell, Sun Wukong wears the golden fillet, and Tang Seng immediately says: "I shall bestow a Dharma name upon you, which shall be Sun Xingzhe." This is the first formal appearance of the title, marking Sun Wukong's official start on the pilgrimage and his acceptance of constraints.
2. Evolution of Address During the Pilgrimage: In the early stages of the journey, characters in the book mostly refer to him as "Sun Xingzhe" or "Xingzhe"; as the story progresses, especially after Sun Wukong demonstrates great powers and subdues demons, the title "Sun Wukong" gradually becomes widespread. However, the term "Xingzhe" still frequently appears in Tang Seng's mouth, reflecting the intimacy and disciplinary relationship between master and disciple. Other demons or deities sometimes refer to him as "Great Sage Sun."
3. Cultural Symbolism: This title reinforces the theme of Sun Wukong's "conversion." From the demon king of Flower-Fruit Mountain to Tang Seng's "Practitioner," the change in name reflects the character's psychological journey from freedom and looseness to taking responsibility. In later operas and folk legends, "Sun Xingzhe" is often used as a synonym for Sun Wukong, deeply rooted in the hearts of people, becoming a symbol of loyalty and supernatural power.

In summary, "Sun Xingzhe" is not merely a name in Journey to the West, but a key clue to understanding Sun Wukong's character growth and Buddhist thought, reflecting the core values of "self-cultivation" and "practice" in traditional Chinese culture. For modern readers, this title reminds us to pay attention to the cultural metaphors behind the character.