Chapter 19

At Cloud-Ladder Cave, Wukong Subdues Bajie

At Mount Fudou, Xuanzang Receives the Heart Sutra

The monster fled, his firelight racing ahead, while the Great Sage followed in his colorful mist. As they traveled, a high mountain suddenly appeared. The monster gathered his red light, revealed his true form, and crashed into his cave. He took up a nine-toothed rake to engage the pilgrim in battle. Wukong shouted, "You impudent monster, where did you come from? How do you know my name? Tell me honestly what skills you have, and I might spare your life."

The monster replied, "Since you do not know my true capability, stand firm and listen to me tell my tale:

Born with a clumsy nature,
I grew up lazy and restless.
I never nurtured my inner spirit or sought the truth,
My heart was lost in chaos undifferentiated state of being, wasting away the days.
But one day, while idling, I met a true immortal,
Who sat down to speak with me of life's mysteries."