Dragons in Mythology and the Characters of Tang Sanzang

Dragons have long played a crucial role in Chinese mythology, folklore, and religious traditions. They are often seen as guardians of wisdom, supernatural beings with immense power, and symbols of divine authority. One of the most fascinating narratives in which dragons appear is the legend of Tang Sanzang (唐三藏), better known in the West as Tripitaka, the Buddhist monk from the classic novel Journey to the West (西游记, Xī Yóu Jì).

In this epic tale, dragons are portrayed as both allies and adversaries, reflecting their complex role in Chinese culture. They shape the fate of Tang Sanzang and his disciples, particularly the Dragon Prince of the Western Sea, who becomes his White Dragon Horse. This article explores the significance of dragons in the mythology surrounding Tang Sanzang, their symbolic meanings, and how they influence the legendary journey to India in search of sacred Buddhist scriptures.

1. The Role of Dragons in Chinese Mythology

Before diving into Journey to the West, it is essential to understand the broader role of dragons in Chinese folklore:

1.1 The Symbolism of Dragons

• Wisdom and Enlightenment: Unlike the fire-breathing dragons of Western tales, Chinese dragons are celestial beings representing knowledge and spiritual growth.
• Power and Guardianship: They are often depicted as protectors of sacred sites, rivers, and divine treasures.
• Transformative Beings: Many dragons have shape-shifting abilities, allowing them to assume human or animal forms.

1.2 The Four Dragon Kings (四海龙王, Sìhǎi Lóngwáng)

Chinese mythology describes four Dragon Kings, each ruling a sea:

• Ao Guang (敖广) – The Dragon King of the East Sea
• Ao Qin (敖钦) – The Dragon King of the South Sea
• Ao Run (敖闰) – The Dragon King of the West Sea
• Ao Shun (敖顺) – The Dragon King of the North Sea

These mighty beings appear frequently in Chinese folklore and play a key role in the story of Tang Sanzang and his disciples.

2. The White Dragon Horse: The Rebirth of a Dragon Prince

One of the most famous dragons in Journey to the West is Ao Lie (敖烈), the Dragon Prince of the Western Sea. His story is one of redemption and transformation, reflecting the Buddhist themes of karma, fate, and spiritual rebirth.

2.1 Ao Lie’s Crime and Punishment

• Ao Lie was originally a noble dragon prince, the son of Ao Run, the Dragon King of the Western Sea.
• However, he committed a grave offense—some versions say he burned a precious pearl given to him by the Jade Emperor, while others suggest he killed a man and disobeyed heavenly laws.
• As punishment, the Jade Emperor sentenced him to death, but Guanyin (观音), the Bodhisattva of Compassion, intervened.
• Instead of execution, Ao Lie was transformed into a white horse and ordered to serve Tang Sanzang on his journey to India.

2.2 The White Dragon Horse’s Role in the Journey

• Though he appears as a mere steed, the White Dragon Horse is no ordinary animal.
• He possesses supernatural endurance, allowing Tang Sanzang to travel vast distances.
• Occasionally, he reveals his true form, using his dragon strength to defeat demons and obstacles.
• His transformation into a horse symbolizes the sacrificial nature of the journey, reinforcing the Buddhist principle of humility and redemption.

3. Other Dragons in Journey to the West

3.1 The Dragon Kings as Allies

Throughout the novel, Tang Sanzang and his disciples encounter the Dragon Kings, who often serve as neutral or benevolent figures.

• The East Sea Dragon King (Ao Guang) appears when Sun Wukong (the Monkey King) demands a magical weapon—the Golden-Banded Staff (金箍棒, Jīngūbàng).
• The other Dragon Kings provide magical items to aid the journey, emphasizing their role as celestial rulers rather than chaotic beasts.

3.2 Evil Dragons and Demonic Serpents

Not all dragons in Journey to the West are benevolent. Some are depicted as dangerous creatures that must be defeated:

• In one tale, the group faces a demonic dragon disguised as a river serpent, who captures Tang Sanzang.
• Sun Wukong must battle and subdue these beings, proving his power as the strongest disciple.

4. The Dragon’s Influence on Tang Sanzang’s Character

4.1 The Dragon as a Symbol of Destiny

• In Chinese mythology, dragons are linked to fate and divine intervention.
• Tang Sanzang’s journey was preordained by the heavens, much like the divine role of the dragons in ensuring the balance of the world.

4.2 The Dragon as a Test of Faith

• At various points, Tang Sanzang must face challenges involving dragons, testing his patience, wisdom, and devotion.
• His compassion for Ao Lie, despite the dragon’s troubled past, shows his unwavering Buddhist principles.

5. Dragons in Chinese Buddhism and Daoism

5.1 Buddhist Views on Dragons

• In Mahāyāna Buddhism, dragons are often protectors of sacred texts and Bodhisattvas in disguise.
• Many Buddhist sutras describe dragons listening to Buddha’s teachings, showing that they can attain enlightenment.

5.2 Daoist Views on Dragons

• Daoism sees dragons as immortal beings who control the flow of qi (气, life force).
• Many Daoist masters are said to command dragons as spiritual allies, similar to how Tang Sanzang relies on the White Dragon Horse.

6. The Lasting Legacy of Dragons in Journey to the West

6.1 Cultural Influence in China

• The White Dragon Horse remains a beloved character in Chinese operas, films, and television adaptations.
• The Dragon Kings continue to be worshipped in many Chinese temples, especially among seafarers.

6.2 The Symbolism in Modern Storytelling

• Many modern fantasy stories draw inspiration from the transformation of Ao Lie—the fallen prince who redeems himself through service.
• The theme of dragons as both heroes and villains remains a staple in Chinese literature.

Conclusion: The Eternal Bond Between Dragons and Tang Sanzang

The dragons of Journey to the West are not just mythical creatures; they represent destiny, wisdom, redemption, and the balance between power and humility.

• The White Dragon Horse stands as a symbol of transformation and loyalty.
• The Dragon Kings highlight the dual nature of dragons as both divine rulers and agents of fate.
• The evil dragons and river demons serve as trials that test the faith and strength of Tang Sanzang and his disciples.

In the end, dragons in the tale of Tang Sanzang are much more than just legendary beasts—they are spiritual guides, guardians, and symbols of the profound mysteries of the universe.