Reading Notes: Sun Wu Kung: Geared Up

Notes

-Sun Wu Kung was visiting the nearby dragon-king and dragon-queen
-He demanded they give him a weapon worthy of his strength and ability
-Given a weapon that was 7,200 pounds, Sun Wu Kung said that was too light

-Dragon-king said that he had nothing heavier or mightier

-Sun Wu Kung insisted that he look around again

-Dragon-queen, done with Sun Ku Kung, told the king to give him the great iron rod 

- this iron rod was used by Great Yu when he ordered the waters and determined the depth of the seas and rivers

-Dragon-king thought it was inappropriate to give Sun Wu Kung (SWK) a sacred weapon

-Dragon-queen did not let up and wanted to be sure that Sun Wu Kung would be pleased and leave

-SWK tried the iron rod out, fitted with golden clamps on either end

-SWK determined that it was too heavy and that it ought to be shorter and thinner

-Without even asking, SWK exercised his supernatural powers to shrink the iron weapon down to a more appropriate size
-SWK was overjoyed and beat about in the sea with the rod. The waves spurted mountain-high and the dragon-castle rocked on its foundations. 

-Dragon-King trembled with fright

-SWK was not fully appeased; a set of fitting armor was still necessary
-Dragon-king said that he had no armor for SWK
-SWK said, "I will not leave until you have obtained one for me.” 

-SWK began to swing his rod

-Dragon-king in his fright pleaded for SWK to not hurt him 

-Dragon-king said that he would call in his brothers from all the other seas

-They convened and decided to appease SWK again

-The king's brothers brought forth the magical, golden armor

-SWK received it, thanked them, and then happily left

-SWK greeted his ape children who stood in awe of his weapon and armor

-SWK told them the secret of the rod and showed them its effects

-SWK then set his empire in order, now that he had adequate armor and a fit weapon

Sun Wu Kong with his iron rod. Source

Bibliography: R. Wilhelm, The Ape Sun Wu Kung, Source