Religious and Political Views of Journey to the West (Xiyouji) and Investiture of Gods (Fengshenji)

Abstract

Journey to the West (Xiyouji) and Investiture of Gods (Fengshenji) are the prominent Chinese literature pieces and had an influence in the creation of many Thai literatures in the Rattanakosin period. Besides being the fairy tales that provide amusement, both pieces of literature have three interesting characteristics. Firstly, they are religious integrating philosophy and teachings of Buddhism (Mahayana) and Taoism. Secondly, both pieces of literature are religious tools to deal with other religious or sects. Finally, both pieces of literature reflect the distinctions of the Chinese society in the Ming dynasty era. Thus, Journey to the Wes (Xiyouji) and Investiture of Gods (Fengshenji) are valuable including historical knoledge and theology, philosophy and religious teachings, and entertainment from the stories filled with miracles.