
What we’re about
Who am I?
Where did I come from?
Why am I here?
Where am I going?
Who do I want to become?
How can I meet my better self?
Have these questions ever whispered to you during quiet moments, leaving you searching for answers? If so, join us on a journey to the West!
Together, we’ll embark on a reading adventure inspired by the timeless classic Journey to the West. Like the characters in this epic tale, you’ll face 81 trials and tribulations—challenges designed to sharpen your mental clarity, test your determination, and guide you toward self-discovery, all while helping you realize your intrinsic potential.
Our club offers a unique blend of:
- The joy of reading a literary masterpiece
- The excitement of exchanging insights with fellow explorers
- The challenge of applying the book’s timeless lessons to everyday life
Who are we?
We are a community of individuals from diverse backgrounds—both Eastern and Western—aspiring to live in harmony by integrating traditional Eastern values with the modern Western world. Through mindful practice of self-awareness, mutual understanding, and self-care, we strive to cultivate a sustainable, healthy, and harmonious lifestyle centered on knowing, helping, and loving both ourselves and others.
What’s next?
After joining, you’ll be asked to complete a brief questionnaire so we can better understand your current knowledge and perspectives on the book.
Please note that this is a paid reading club, and details regarding membership fees will be provided upon enrollment.
Upcoming events (1)
See all- Session 28: Emperor Taizong Promotes Good Deeds After Touring the UnderworldLink visible for attendeesA$5.00
Are you a new member wondering if it's the right time to join?
Are you unsure whether joining mid-way is appropriate?The answer is simple: Anytime is a good time to join the pilgrimage!
Each session brings new insights, and every step along the journey offers wisdom and transformation. You’re welcome to start now and grow with us!
In this session, we witness Emperor Taizong—after returning from his extraordinary journey through the underworld—actively promoting virtue and justice in his empire. He issues several compassionate decrees: postponing the execution of criminals, releasing 3,000 palace women to marry into the military, and calling for a volunteer to deliver pumpkins to the underworld. A man named Liu Quan answers the call, leading to an astonishing turn in his fate and that of his deceased wife.
Session Focus:
We will explore why such a significant portion of the story is dedicated to Emperor Taizong’s transformation and how this narrative contributes to the broader themes of Journey to the West.Key Questions for contemplation:
Q1: What is the Wheel of the Six Paths of Being?
What universal law governs it?Q2: What decrees did Emperor Taizong issue upon returning to life, and why?
Which one impressed you the most and why?"Great are Heaven and Earth;
Sun and Moon shine clearly.
Although the universe is vast,
Earth and sky have no room for evil plots.
If you use your wits and skill to cheat people,
You will get retribution in this life;
If you are good at giving and ask for little,
You are sure to find a reward before your future life.
A thousand cunning plans
Cannot compare with living according to one's lot;
Ten thousand kinds of robbers
Are no match for those who live frugally and accept their fate.
If you are good and merciful in thought and deed,
What need is there to bother to read the scriptures?
If your mind is full of malice towards others,
To read the whole of the Buddha's canon would be a waste of time."
Q3: How do you interpret the imperial notice posted across the empire?
What was its message, and how did it affect the people?Q4: Who responded to the call to deliver pumpkins to the underworld, and why did he volunteer to die?
Q5: What miraculous events happened to Liu Quan and his late wife in the underworld?
Q6: Why are Chapters 10 and 11 focused on Emperor Taizong’s journey?
What significance does he hold in the Journey to the West?Take time to reflect on these questions, delve into their deeper meanings, and share your insights during Reading Session 28!
Members’ Blogging Space:
All members are welcome to post your realization and comments:
https://www.hellosuliving.com/blog- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Self-study and preparation:
English text:
https://chine.in/fichiers/jourwest.pdf
Chapter 11 (page160 - 166)- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Membership Plans:
The reading club offers the scheme of annual membership:
1 year (52 consecutive sessions) – NZD 300You can click the link below to make the payment:
https://www.hellosuliving.com/services-5