Saiyuki names

[louiselux]

Can anyone point me to a good analysis of what Sanzo, Goku, Hakkai and Gojyo's names mean, or indeed can anyone tell me in some detail? I have very little knowledge of Japanese. I'm fairly clear on the number thing, but I know there are other meanings too. For Hakkai, meanings found so far on a cursory internet search are 'eight precepts' 'eight views' 'eight stormy seas'!

So, aaargh! confusing! I'd really appreciate some advice on this, if anyone can help.

The reason I'm asking and the reason this post is fairly closely locked to those likely to know is because it has to do with a remix story I'm writing, hence the desire to get things right.

Comments

[wildelamassu.livejournal.com]

I've always heard "Hakkai" given as "Eight Remonstrances"--at least, that's how MJJ uses it?

[louiselux.livejournal.com]

Now I know a little bit more it seems to me that the literal translation 'eight limits', used in the context of Buddhism, makes sense as 'eight remonstrances'. I've also seen it as 'eight admonitions' or 'eight precepts', which add up to much the same thing.

[lebateleur.livejournal.com]

Sure. The thing you have to remember about kanji is that each has several different meanings depending on the context in which the character's used, and translating it into English just adds another complication.

[wildelamassu.livejournal.com]

*laughs* Which is why I never found the courage to take Japanese. Thanks for the heads-up, though.