when Horror Yearbook – Zhu Bajie may be known to many as the lovable pig demon from the famous novel Journey to the West. However, few realize that Pigsy has a real-life historical origin rooted in Chinese Buddhist tradition. Long before Xuanzang took his iconic journey, another monk named Zhu Shixing set out on a similar path. Zhu Shixing lived during the late Han dynasty and was the first Han Chinese Buddhist monk ever recorded in history. His religious name, Bajie, meaning eight precepts, directly inspired the fictional character’s name. This connection between myth and history adds depth to the Pigsy character. Through this article, we explore how Zhu Bajie’s origins lie in the life of a determined monk whose pilgrimage laid a foundation for future spiritual seekers. Discovering these connections between real people and fictional icons brings greater appreciation for the cultural depth behind classical Chinese literature.
Zhu Bajie was not just a name created for storytelling. It was also the religious name of Zhu Shixing, the first Han Chinese monk. This name is a central link between him and Pigsy. Bajie means eight precepts, key principles in Buddhism. Wu Cheng’en, the author of Journey to the West, likely borrowed this to give Pigsy spiritual depth. Even their journeys align. Zhu Shixing went west for sacred texts, just like Pigsy does in the story. Though one was real and the other fiction, both characters reflect the values of dedication and spiritual purpose. One major difference lies in their surnames. Pigsy’s surname Zhu means pig, a clever pun. Meanwhile, Zhu Shixing’s surname carries no such meaning. Still, the parallel is obvious. Both Bajies left home, sought wisdom, and played roles in spreading Buddhism. Zhu Bajie, whether in truth or tale, stands as a figure shaped by faith and resilience.
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Zhu Shixing was born in the year 203 AD in present-day Henan province, during the final years of the Han dynasty. At that time, becoming a monk was forbidden for those of Han ethnicity due to political control by Cao Cao and his successors. However, Zhu Shixing never abandoned his spiritual interest. He practiced Buddhist teachings privately until the restriction was lifted decades later. In the year 250 AD, he finally received official ordination at White Horse Temple. At age 47, he took on the religious name Bajie. This was a historic moment. Zhu became the first Han Chinese to become a recognized monk. His ordination marked a turning point for Chinese Buddhism. His example inspired future generations and opened the door for others to follow his path. The spiritual dedication of Zhu Bajie formed the core of his identity and laid the foundation for his future journey toward wisdom in the West.
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After becoming a monk, Zhu Bajie soon realized that many of the scriptures he taught lacked clarity. Their translations were inconsistent and incomplete. A foreign monk informed him of original sutras that existed far to the west. At age 57, Bajie made a bold decision. He left his family behind and departed from Yongzhou with several disciples. Their journey took them across deserts and treacherous terrain until they reached the Kingdom of Khotan. There, Bajie found the original Sanskrit text of the Mahaprajnaparamita Sutra. This sacred scripture consisted of over 600,000 words. Bajie remained in Khotan for many years, painstakingly copying the texts. His age and the journey’s hardships never stopped his pursuit. Though he did not return to China, he ensured his teachings were delivered back home through his disciples. Zhu Bajie’s determination remains a symbol of spiritual courage and intellectual pursuit in the face of overwhelming odds.
Zhu Bajie’s story did not end with his death in Khotan at the age of 79. His legacy continued through the teachings he preserved and the inspiration he provided. Though Xuanzang is more famous, Zhu Shixing’s role came centuries earlier. His efforts made it possible for Buddhism to gain deeper roots in China. Later writers such as Wu Cheng’en saw his name and story as a rich source for character creation. Pigsy, though a comic figure, carries the spirit of a real monk driven by a search for meaning. Readers may laugh at Pigsy’s clumsy ways, but they are also reminded of Zhu Bajie’s original wisdom and effort. The blending of historical truth and imaginative fiction creates a layered narrative. Through this, Zhu Bajie becomes more than a mythical creature. He becomes a reflection of human persistence, spiritual ambition, and cultural legacy that continues to inspire audiences today.
