The Legend of the White Snake – China (Original Version)

Long ago, in the misty mountains of ancient China, there lived a powerful white snake spirit who had cultivated her powers for thousands of years. Through her dedication and meditation, she had gained the ability to transform into a beautiful human woman. Eager to experience the human world, she descended from the mountains, taking the name Bai Suzhen.

As Bai Suzhen explored the bustling towns and serene landscapes, she was captivated by the vibrancy of human life. One day, during the Qingming Festival, she met a kind and handsome young scholar named Xu Xian by the West Lake in Hangzhou. Their fateful encounter sparked a deep and instant connection, and they soon fell in love.

Bai Suzhen and Xu Xian married and opened a medicine shop, where Bai Suzhen used her knowledge of herbs and healing to help the sick and needy. Her compassion and skill earned her great respect and admiration from the townspeople.

However, their happiness attracted the attention of Fa Hai, a stern and zealous monk from the Jinshan Temple, who believed it was his duty to rid the world of demons and spirits. Fa Hai discovered Bai Suzhen’s true identity and feared her powers, despite her benevolent nature.

Determined to separate the couple, Fa Hai confronted Xu Xian, revealing Bai Suzhen’s secret. Initially shocked, Xu Xian’s love for Bai Suzhen remained unwavering, and he chose to stay by her side.

Undeterred, Fa Hai devised a plan to expose Bai Suzhen’s true form. During the Dragon Boat Festival, he persuaded Xu Xian to give Bai Suzhen realgar wine, which would force her to reveal her snake form. Though reluctant, Xu Xian complied, and Bai Suzhen, unable to resist the wine’s effects, transformed into a white snake.

Overwhelmed by fear and betrayal, Xu Xian collapsed and died. Heartbroken, Bai Suzhen sought the help of her friend, Xiao Qing, a green snake spirit. Together, they journeyed to Mount Emei to obtain a magical herb that could revive Xu Xian.

Facing perilous challenges, Bai Suzhen’s love and determination prevailed, and she successfully revived her husband. Their reunion was joyful, but short-lived, as Fa Hai’s pursuit continued.

In a final confrontation at the Jinshan Temple, Bai Suzhen, now pregnant, used her powers to summon a great flood to protect her family. Despite her efforts, Fa Hai captured her and imprisoned her beneath the Leifeng Pagoda.

Years passed, and Xu Xian, with the help of Xiao Qing, worked tirelessly to free Bai Suzhen. Their son, who grew into a wise and virtuous man, played a crucial role in breaking the spell that bound the pagoda. At last, Bai Suzhen was freed, and she was joyfully reunited with her family. The legend of the White Snake became a timeless tale, celebrating the power of love, loyalty, and redemption, transcending the boundaries between worlds and reminding all who hear it of the enduring bond between Bai Suzhen and Xu Xian.

The End.