The Legend of the White Snake is one of the most iconic and enduring love stories in Chinese folklore. Blending romance, sacrifice, supernatural elements, and the struggle against societal prejudice, this ancient tale has been passed down for centuries through books, operas, films, and television. At its core, it is a story about love that defies time, fate, and even death.
Bai Suzhen and Xu Xian quickly fell deeply in love. They married and began a peaceful life together. With her powers, Bai Suzhen healed the sick and helped the poor, earning the admiration of many people. Their life seemed full of harmony and hope. However, not everyone accepted this unusual relationship. A Buddhist monk named Fa Hai, who held rigid beliefs and possessed great spiritual strength, discovered Bai Suzhen’s true identity. Convinced she was a dangerous demon, he was determined to destroy the bond between her and Xu Xian.
During the Dragon Boat Festival, Fa Hai tricked Xu Xian into giving Bai Suzhen a cup of realgar wine, known to force spirits to reveal their true forms. After drinking it, Bai Suzhen transformed into a giant white snake. Terrified by the sight, Xu Xian fainted. When he woke, overwhelmed and confused, he fled to Jinshan Temple. There, Fa Hai imprisoned him to prevent their reunion.
Bai Suzhen refused to let go of her love. Alongside Xiaoqing, she journeyed to the temple and attempted to rescue her husband. She summoned mighty floodwaters, leading to a dramatic and destructive battle with Fa Hai. The fierce clash shook the region and terrified nearby villagers. Despite her strength, Bai Suzhen was pregnant and weakened during the fight. Fa Hai overpowered her and sealed her beneath Leifeng Pagoda, trapping her with divine power. Before her imprisonment, she entrusted Xiaoqing with one final hope: to grow stronger and return one day to save her.
Years went by. Xiaoqing practiced tirelessly and became a powerful spiritual warrior. At last, she returned to break the seal and free Bai Suzhen. By then, Xu Xian had become a monk, but he had never stopped loving her. Their enduring love, tested by time and suffering, moved the heavens. The divine forces finally allowed the couple to reunite and live in peace.
The Legend of the White Snake is more than a supernatural love story. It reflects the timeless struggle between love and tradition, spirit and society, fate and determination. It speaks to the power of loyalty, the pain of sacrifice, and the courage to fight for what truly matters. Even today, Bai Suzhen and Xu Xian remain among China’s most beloved symbols of eternal love, inspiring countless generations across cultures and continents.