In Journey to the West, Zhu Bajie is often portrayed as a comic figure – gluttonous, lazy, and lustful. Yet a closer reading of the original text reveals many overlooked virtues. Far from being merely a foil, he is a reliable companion whose contributions are vital to the journey’s success.
One of the most touching moments occurs when Sun Wukong is captured by the Yellow-Browed Demon in the fake Thunder Monastery. When Master Tang (Monk Tang) is kidnapped, Bajie typically cries, “Let’s split the luggage and go home!” But when his senior brother is in peril, he acts completely differently – he spares no effort to rescue him. Not only does he refuse to flee, but he mobilizes every connection he has in Heaven. Remarkably, he manages to summon all Twenty-Eight Constellations – celestial deities who rarely gather even for imperial assemblies – all to save Monkey King. This act alone speaks volumes about his loyalty.
Even more revealing is this: Zhu Bajie is the only one who dares call Sun Wukong “Bimawen” (Keeper of the Heavenly Horses) – a title meant to humiliate – and Wukong never gets angry. In turn, though Wukong often teases Bajie as “stupid pig,” he always turns to him first in times of crisis. The only time Wukong is ever deceived is when Bull Demon King disguises himself as Bajie. Despite his Fiery Golden Eyes that see through all illusions, Wukong would never use them to doubt his own brother. Such trust is built on Bajie’s consistent sincerity.
Specifically, Zhu Bajie’s strengths can be summarized in four key traits:
Optimistic Disposition
Amid countless trials, Bajie rarely sinks into despair. Even when strung up by demons, he cracks jokes and lightens the mood. His humor helps ease team tension and maintains morale.
Deep Loyalty and Affection
After Wukong is wrongly expelled by Tang Sanzang, it is Bajie who journeys to Flower-Fruit Mountain and cleverly uses reverse psychology to bring his brother back. And when Wukong is trapped, Bajie risks everything – even calling in celestial favors – to save him. His loyalty runs deep.
Diligence and Willingness to Work
Throughout the pilgrimage, Bajie carries the luggage, clears paths, digs wells, and tills soil. Though he grumbles “This old pig is exhausted!”, he never abandons his duties and always finishes what’s required.
Frankness and Honesty
Bajie never pretends. He openly admits his cravings, his fatigue, and his longing to return to Gao Village. This transparency allows the team to understand his needs clearly, preventing misunderstandings.
In conclusion, Zhu Bajie is far more than comic relief. His optimism, loyalty, diligence, and honesty serve as essential glue holding the pilgrimage team together. Without him, Journey to the West would lose much of its warmth, humanity, and heart.
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