Zhu Bajie, widely recognized as Zhu Ganglie or Zhu Wuneng, is a pivotal character from the legendary Chinese literature piece, Journey to the West, along with its various adaptations. Initially, in the narrative, he takes on an antagonistic role until his eventual redemption through the influence of companions like Sun Wukong and Xuanzang. In the renowned 1986 television adaptation, Zhu Bajie was portrayed by actors Ma Dehua in the first season and Cui Jingfu in the second.
Appearance
Zhu Bajie is depicted as an anthropomorphic pig characterized by considerable unattractiveness, which can be alarming to ordinary people. He is significantly overweight, with a notably large stomach, and is usually dressed in black, leaving his belly exposed. His signature weapon is a magical rake featuring nine teeth.
Biography
Origins
Once a revered figure known as Tianpeng Yuanshuai (literally “Marshal Canopy”), Zhu Bajie held the title of commander of 80,000 Heavenly Navy Soldiers. His fortunes took a turn during a heavenly banquet when he encountered the Goddess of the Moon and was instantly taken by her beauty. Under the influence of alcohol, he attempted to flirt with her, a move that led to her reporting him to the Jade Emperor and ultimately resulted in his banishment from Heaven. In a twist of fate, he reincarnated as Zhu Ganglie, a monstrous pig who was known for his vile deeds, including abducting the daughter of a local elder from Gao village and demanding her hand in marriage through a note. This led him to an encounter with the Bodhisattva Guanyin, who instructed him to wait to become a disciple of the monk Xuanzang to redeem himself, and also bestowed upon him the name Zhu Wuneng.
Journey to the West
When Xuanzang and Wukong reached Gao village, the elder requested Wukong to subdue his demonic son-in-law. Wukong, disguised as the kidnapped daughter, discovered that Zhu Ganglie was the true identity of the demon. Upon Wukong revealing his true self, Ganglie quickly recognized him as the infamous monkey who had caused chaos in Heaven five centuries prior. The two engaged in battle on two occasions, but the conflicts ceased when Ganglie learned about Wukong’s association with Xuanzang—the very monk he was destined to serve as instructed by Guanyin. With this knowledge, Ganglie surrendered, was accepted by Xuanzang as a student, and received the name Zhu Bajie. From that juncture, Zhu Bajie transitioned into a heroic figure.
Gallery
Zhu Bajie as depicted by Ma Dehua alongside the representation of Zhu Ganglie in his humanoid form.
