The Legend of Nezha – The "Three Altars Sea Assembly Great God
In the rich tapestry of Chinese mythology, few figures are as captivating as Nezha, the third son of the Pagoda - Bearing Heavenly King Li Jing. While many know him as the "Third Prince," his title as the "Three Altars Sea Assembly Great God" remains shrouded in mystery. Today, we delve into the fascinating story behind this enigmatic title and its significance in Chinese folklore.
Nezha and the Three Altars Sea Assembly
In Journey to the West, the Jade Emperor appoints Li Jing as the Demon - Subduing Marshal and Nezha as the "Three Altars Sea Assembly Great God" to lead an army of 100,000 heavenly soldiers to capture the Monkey King. At first glance, this title seems puzzling. Why would Nezha, a fierce warrior, be given such a lofty and seemingly ceremonial title? The answer lies in Nezha's heroic deeds during the ancient Fengshen Yanyi (Investiture of the Gods) era.
The Origin of the Title
The term "Three Altars Sea Assembly" has deep roots in Buddhist tradition. The "Three Altars" refer to the heavens, earth, and water, while "Sea Assembly" symbolizes a gathering of virtuous beings. Nezha, originally a disciple of the Taoist sage Taiyi Zhenren, became intertwined with Buddhist lore due to his infamous encounter with the Dragon King's son, Ao Bing.
Nezha's Rebellion and Redemption
Nezha's story takes a dramatic turn when he kills Ao Bing and, in a fit of youthful arrogance, strips the dragon of its tendons to gift his father. This act enrages the Dragon King, who floods Nezha's hometown, Chen Tang Pass. Faced with the consequences of his actions, Nezha makes the ultimate sacrifice: he returns his flesh and bones to his parents, leaving only his spirit behind.
Here, the tale diverges. One version claims that Taiyi Zhenren rebuilt Nezha's body using lotus roots, granting him immense power but limiting his cultivation to the level of a "True Immortal." Another version suggests that Nezha's spirit was saved by the Buddha, who used a 10,000 - year - old lotus to restore him. This connection to Buddhism explains Nezha's "three heads and six arms," a form reminiscent of Buddhist deities like the Thousand - Armed Guanyin.
Nezha's Role in the Investiture of the Gods
During the Fengshen Yanyi, Nezha's indestructible lotus body made him a formidable warrior. His near - immortality, save for the cursed arrows of Lu Ya and the soul - slaying Flying Dagger, made him a key figure in the war. However, because he lacked a true physical form, Nezha was not listed on the Fengshen Bang (Register of the Gods). Instead, he was granted the title "Three Altars Sea Assembly Great God," a position that allowed him to receive the worship and faith of mortals across the heavens, earth, and seas.
The Legacy of Nezha
Nezha's story is one of rebellion, redemption, and transcendence. His title as the "Three Altars Sea Assembly Great God" reflects his unique status as a bridge between Taoist and Buddhist traditions, embodying the virtues of courage, loyalty, and spiritual power. Today, Nezha remains a beloved figure in Chinese culture, inspiring countless adaptations in literature, film, and art.
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