An Ocean from a Vase

Journey to the West 52 An Ocean from a Vase

Wukong and Guanyin stood on the lotus platform above Red Boy’s mountain. “ Let’s attack Red Boy now, ” said the monkey. “ Wait, Wukong, ” said Guanyin, holding up a hand. “ There’s a lot of water in this vase—enough for an ocean. I don’t want any animals harmed when I pour it out. ” She recited a quick spell.

A moment later the local spirit arrived. “ Bodhisattva, ” said the spirit. “ What can I do for you?” “ I’m going to pour magic water around Red Boy’s mountain, ” said Guanyin. “ Please make sure all the animals are far, far away from the mountain. ” “ Yes, Bodhisattva, ” said the spirit.

The spirit flew down to earth. Wukong watched the ground below. First he saw some small animals scurry out from under bushes. Birds flew from branches. Then tigers, bears, and other large animals stampeded down the mountainside. Soon there wasn’t a single animal anywhere near the mountain. “ Now I can pour the water out, ” said Guanyin.

She tipped the vase, and rolling waves of water poured out. The waves washed down the slopes of the mountain. The water level rose higher and higher, forming an ocean. Only the top of the mountain was above water. “ Wukong, go down there and get the demon to come out, ” said Guanyin. “ Fight him, but don’t defeat him. Instead, lead him up here to me. ”

Wukong jumped down to the mountain. He pulled out his iron bar and swung it. Smash! The door to the cave exploded. Red Boy ran out of the cave, looking furious. “ You smashed my front door! ” he shouted. “ That’s right, ” said the monkey. “ And I’ll smash you if you don’t release my friends. ” “ Ha! ” Red Boy laughed and then punched himself in the nose. Nothing happened.