Journey to the West, a timeless masterpiece from China, is more than just a story; it’s a vibrant tapestry woven with mythology, adventure, and profound spiritual lessons. At the heart of this epic tale lies Sun Wukong, the mischievous and mighty protagonist known across the world as the Monkey King. His journey is one of transformation, rebellion, and ultimately, enlightenment. And crucial to understanding his evolution is a significant moment, one that sets the stage for the adventures to come: the self-naming in chapter 3.
This article delves into the defining episode, examining the pivotal events that led to the Monkey King adopting his powerful moniker and exploring the lasting impact it would have on the rest of the story. Let’s explore the answer to the question, “what name does Monkey give himself in chapter 3 of *Journey to the West*?”
The Seeds of Destiny: Early Days and Skill Acquisition
Before he was the Monkey King, Sun Wukong was simply a monkey born from a stone, a creature of boundless energy and curiosity. His earliest days were spent frolicking with his fellow monkeys in the majestic Flower-Fruit Mountain. This idyllic life, however, held an inherent dissatisfaction. He yearned for something more, something beyond the simple pleasures of life. This discontent fueled his determination to seek immortality, a desire that would set him on a transformative path.
This quest led him on a journey, ultimately finding a Taoist master, Subodhi, on a distant mountain. Under Subodhi’s tutelage, Sun Wukong embarked on an arduous path of self-cultivation. He diligently learned a vast array of skills, including the arts of physical combat, the power of transformation, and the ability to manipulate the elements. He absorbed complex Daoist teachings and achieved a level of skill that surpassed his fellow disciples.
With remarkable speed, he honed his physical and spiritual prowess. He mastered the art of invisibility, could conjure clouds to travel on, and learned seventy-two different transformations, able to morph into animals, objects, and even himself. His training was rigorous, and his abilities quickly became legendary amongst his peers. Subodhi, recognizing Monkey’s aptitude, pushed him hard, leading to spectacular achievements.
The Yearning for a Weapon of Power
As Sun Wukong’s abilities grew, so did his ambitions and confidence. He came to recognize his own strength and potential. However, a critical element was missing: a weapon worthy of his newly acquired prowess. Existing weapons were flimsy, insufficient against his power. He expressed his need for something appropriate to his master, Subodhi. This marked a turning point, as it signaled Monkey’s readiness for more.
Following this, Subodhi, understanding Monkey’s growing strength, warned of the peril associated with that growth. Eventually, Subodhi ordered Monkey to leave, fearing the consequences of the Monkey’s knowledge. This set the stage for the next phase of his journey.
A Divine Quest: The Staff of Immense Power
Driven by his need for a potent weapon, Monkey embarked on another adventure. He sought the Dragon Kings of the four seas, legendary beings said to possess untold treasures. This quest led him to the underwater palace of the East Sea Dragon King, a realm of opulent palaces and shimmering jewels.
Inside the palace, he was initially offered a series of progressively larger and heavier weapons. However, none truly matched his innate strength and skills. Finally, he discovered the Ruyi Jingu Bang, an iron staff of enormous proportions, resting at the bottom of the sea. It was an immensely powerful artifact, capable of changing size and shape on command, a perfect weapon for the evolving Monkey.
Seemingly, the Ruyi Jingu Bang belonged to the Dragon King. However, the artifact has its own unique property that lets it know its owner. When Monkey picked it up, it became lighter, and it shrunk to a size that was easier for him to wield, demonstrating the unique relationship between the artifact and its new owner.
The Dragon King, realizing the Monkey’s strength, was left to concede the staff. With the Ruyi Jingu Bang in his grasp, Monkey was ready to fully embrace his destiny. The weapon became an extension of his own power, marking him as a force to be reckoned with.
The Name of Destiny: The Birth of the Monkey King
Having secured his weapon of choice, Monkey felt a renewed sense of power. With his newfound might and impressive martial skills, he realized that he was now a leader and deserved a proper title. He sought out a fitting name that would reflect his growing stature and the power he now commanded.
The East Sea Dragon King, humbled by the Monkey’s feat, suggested a name with particular resonance: “Monkey King” (美猴王, *Měi hóu wáng*). This title, “Monkey King,” was a declaration of his prowess, his status as a sovereign ruler among his kind. This name immediately captured his essence, reflecting both his connection to his fellow monkeys and his newfound dominion over the world.
He accepted the name, understanding its significance and accepting his place in the story as the ruler of his people. The choice was not arbitrary; it spoke to his ambition, his self-awareness, and his desire for respect and recognition. The decision was a pivotal point for the Monkey King.
The Echo of Power: Ramifications of the New Name
The name “Monkey King” had profound consequences for Monkey. It was a signal to both the celestial and mortal realms, setting the stage for a cascade of events. He returned to Flower-Fruit Mountain, embraced his title, and began to build his kingdom. He declared himself the king, ruling over the mountain and its inhabitants with an iron fist.
With this new title, he demanded respect and authority. His actions reflected his growing ego and confidence. He formed alliances, challenged authority, and made many enemies along the way. This newfound sense of power led him to confront the established hierarchy of Heaven, marking the beginning of a long and epic conflict. He challenged their rule, ultimately leading to his initial imprisonment.
The celestial realms, initially unaware of his power, took notice. The Monkey King’s actions challenged the order of the world, and his rise was something that could not be overlooked. His rebellion against the gods was a direct result of his newfound confidence and the desire to be recognized for his prowess. This conflict between Monkey and the forces of Heaven became a major plotline that shaped the entire journey.
The Enduring Legacy
So, what name does Monkey give himself in chapter 3 of *Journey to the West*? He becomes the “Monkey King,” a title that defined his identity, shaped his destiny, and resonated throughout the remainder of the novel. This seemingly simple act of self-naming was a turning point. It signified his acceptance of his power and his role as a rebel and a leader.
From his humble beginnings to his rise as the Monkey King, his story is a testament to the power of perseverance, ambition, and the search for self-discovery. Through challenges and triumphs, the Monkey King’s journey continues to captivate readers. This chapter, centered around self-naming, is one that lays the ground for the enduring success of the legendary Monkey King.
