Tang Sanzang bid farewell to the Tang Emperor and departed Chang'an. Traveling nonstop, he arrived at Famen Temple within a day. The monks welcomed him, offered tea, and after a vegetarian meal, evening fell.

Under the lamplight, the monks discussed Tang Sanzang's journey. Some spoke of the distant waters and high mountains, others of the many tigers and leopards on the road, some of the treacherous ridges and steep cliffs, and others of the poisonous demons and evil monsters that would be difficult to subdue.

Tang Sanzang remained silent, only pointing to his heart and nodding. Puzzled, the monks asked, "Venerable Master, why do you point to your heart and nod?"

Tang Sanzang replied, "When the mind arises, various demons arise; when the mind ceases, various demons cease. I have made a solemn vow before the Buddha statue, and I must fulfill this commitment. I am determined to go to the Western Heaven, meet the Buddha, and obtain scriptures, so that the Dharma may spread and bring lasting peace and prosperity to the world."

Hearing this, everyone praised and lauded him, calling him 'the greatly devoted and sincere Zen Master'.