Session 13: Sun Wukong Subdued by Accepting the Honorary Appointment from Heaven
- liz zhang
- Jan 29
- 2 min read
In this session, upon learning that Sun Wukong had declared himself the "Great Sage Equalling Heaven," the Jade Emperor sent celestial generals to subdue him. However, Sun Wukong defeated them all. While the Jade Emperor considered sending more troops, the Great White Planet proposed a different approach: offering Sun Wukong an honorary appointment to bring peace and harmony between Heaven and Earth.
Key Questions for Reflection:
Q: How many celestial generals were sent to subdue Sun Wukong, and what was the result of their attempt?
Q: What traits of character do you see in the celestial generals?
Q: What deal did Sun Wukong propose to the Celestial Court, and how does it reflect his character and ambitions?
Q: How did Sun Wukong beat Prince Nezha?
What do you learn about Sun Wukong’s abilities and mindset from this confrontation?
Q: What did Sun Wukong do after defeating the celestial generals?
Q: After hearing of Sun Wukong’s victories, what action did the Jade Emperor want to take next?
The Great White Planet stepped forward from the ranks of officials. "That monkey fiend knows how to talk," he suggested, "but he has no idea about real power.”
Q: What is your out-take from his words?
What is the true meaning of real power, according to you?
Q: What proposal did the Great White Planet make to the Jade Emperor?
How do you see and learn from his proposal?
Q: The Jade Emperor accepted the Great White Planet’s proposals twice.
How do you view the Great White Planet’s role in the celestial court?
What qualities made him respected and trusted by the Jade Emperor?
Q: What was the grade of The Sage Equalling Heave, according to the Jade Emperor?
Why did he say so?
Q: What privileges were contained in the office package of Sun Wukong?
Was Sun Wukong content with these terms?
I am Nobu, currently living in Prague
The Great White Planet reminds me of a person who speaks with wisdom—a seasoned negotiator. He understands the heart of the Jade Emperor, who seeks to maintain the status quo of the upper realms while showing generosity to the lower realms. At the same time, he grasps the desires of the Monkey King, who longs for recognition not just from the lower realms but from the upper realms as well.
The charm of the Great White Planet lies in his ability to move effortlessly between these two worlds. He has mastered the art of mediation, skillfully bridging the gap between the authority of the Jade Emperor and the rebellious spirit of the Monkey…
I am Chuan, living in Prague of Czech Republic.
Sun Wukong never shows courtesy to those who look down on him through words or actions. This can be seen in his battles with the Mighty Miracle God and Nezha. Since Sun Wukong had already mastered the 72 transformations, he was proud and confident in his abilities.
On the other hand, when the Great White Planet went twice to persuade Sun Wukong to accept a position in the Heavenly Court,the Great White Planet was polite and respectful towards Sun WukongIn return, Sun Wukong treated him courteously as well.
This is also evident when Sun Wukong returned to his cave after defeating Nezha. The seventy−two kings of the monsters and Sun Wukong's…