The Deception of the Injured Monk

In this chapter of Journey to the West, the narrative shifts from Bajie’s initial failure to the calculated machinations of the demon Goldenhorn. The story begins with Bajie’s defeat; despite his confidence in his “powerful rake,” he is easily overpowered by Goldenhorn and subsequently imprisoned in a “dark cave.” This sets the stage for the demon’s primary objective: capturing the Tang Monk.

The Strategic Ruse

As the Tang Monk, Wukong, and Wu Jing continue their journey, they encounter a man claiming to be an “old monk” lying by the road. The demon’s performance is masterfully manipulative, feigning a “terribly” painful “injured leg” caused by a “tiger attack.” While the compassionate Tang Monk falls for the ruse, insisting that they “must help” the stranger, Wukong remains vigilant. He “looked suspiciously at the man,” instinctively sensing that “he isn't really a monk” and harbors malicious intent toward his Master.

The Battle of Strength and Magic

Despite his suspicions, Wukong is forced to carry the imposter. During their ascent, the dialogue between the two reveals their true identities. Wukong mocks the demon, reminding him that “Heaven's entire army couldn't defeat” him. Undeterred, Goldenhorn employs dark magic to trap the Monkey King.

Initially, the demon places “an entire mountain” on Wukong’s head. Wukong, unimpressed, draws upon his history, noting that “Buddha himself once trapped me under a mountain” and he had successfully escaped. The demon escalates the challenge, adding a second mountain, and finally, a third. The physical toll becomes too great, and Wukong’s “knees buckled,” leading to his entrapment under the crushing weight of the three mountains.

The Demon's Triumph

With Wukong immobilized, the old monk vanishes and reveals his true “demon form.” Goldenhorn’s transformation is accompanied by a “flash of light,” marking a moment of victory for the antagonist. Having neutralized the “most powerful” member of the group, Goldenhorn is now emboldened, believing that it “will be easy to defeat Wu Jing” and finally satisfy his goal to “dine on the Tang Monk.”

Conclusion

This chapter highlights the recurring theme of deception in the journey. The demon’s ability to manipulate the Tang Monk’s kindness against his own protectors creates a perilous situation. By using the very mountains that once served as Wukong’s prison under Buddha’s decree, Goldenhorn attempts to turn the protagonist’s past against him, leaving the fate of the pilgrims hanging in the balance.