Embodying Xuanzang

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The life of Xuanzang, a pivotal figure in East Asian Buddhism, unfolds through his legendary pilgrimage from China to India, where he translated numerous Buddhist texts. His adventures inspired mythic tales that transformed him into a magical monk traversing between heaven and earth. Accompanied by a quirky entourage, he seeks sacred scriptures to aid the living and the dead. This exploration delves into the cultural impact of Xuanzang's legacy, revealing how his story has been invoked in rituals and narratives from the eleventh century to today, culminating in the renowned novel Journey to the West.