Subodhi found an opportunity and asked Sun Wukong what he wished to learn.
However, every path he offered was extremely well-suited for mortal survival yet utterly incapable of granting eternal life. The true method of eternal life would certainly not be given away so easily. The principle that "the Dharma must not be imparted lightly" was no empty saying.
Because eternal life carried Karma, if a disciple behaved recklessly and accumulated massive karmic burden, that burden would also transfer to the master who taught them. Whether or not to impart teachings involved deep consideration. Patriarch Subodhi had done this intentionally, and after finally receiving three strokes of the ruler, Sun Wukong at last understood the secret behind seeking guidance from his master in the dead of night.
Chapter 35