94 Systemizing Martial Practice
The superhuman dimensions of the staff-wielding monkey remind us of another
staff expert, who likewise could change his size at will. This is, of course, Shao-
lin’s guardian spirit, Vajrapâÿi (alias Kiœnara), who emerged from the monas-
tery’s stove as a giant, standing astride the Mt. Song peaks. Sun Wukong similarly
changed his appearance, in one instance after being smelted in a stove (belong-
ing to Laozi’s alchemical laboratory).^41 Which of these staff-brandishing deities
inspired the other’s myth? Did the Journey to the West story cycle serve as a source
Fig. 15. Sun Wukong’s staff; late Ming (ca. 1625) woodblock illustration