Zhu Bajie manifests as a pig-like humanoid monster who captures a village elder's daughter, demanding marriage until her family yields. This confrontation draws in the protagonists. Originally a heavenly marshal commanding celestial naval forces, his banishment from heaven followed drunken misconduct at a divine banquet where he pursued the unwilling Goddess of the Moon. Reincarnated into monstrous pig form, he initially clashes with the heroes but recognizes their leader as the monkey who once rampaged through heaven. Defeated in combat, he surrenders upon learning of their pilgrimage mission and joins as an act of redemption. Throughout the journey, he displays greed and laziness, frequently complaining of hunger and travel hardships. His actions supply comic relief, including chaotic incidents where he loses food supplies. He fights with a distinctive nine-toothed rake. Gradually integrating into the group despite selfish relapses, he engages in pivotal battles against adversaries—even suffering capture by King Gruesome's forces before rescue. The pilgrimage concludes successfully with his participation. Visually, he appears as an anthropomorphic pig with a prominent stomach, dressed mainly in black clothing that exposes his abdomen. His intentionally grotesque design terrifies ordinary humans on sight. Within the narrative, he faces trials testing his gluttony and greed, acting as a foil to other characters. His journey culminates in achieving enlightenment alongside his companions.