Zhu Bajie: Past and Present (Innocent Version)

Author: Ruan Xiaowu
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2004-11-01
Features: This novel completely subverts and rewrites the image of Zhu Bajie, portraying him as Tianpeng, who shares a moving and poignant story with the Four Beauties of Heaven. It transforms his traditionally criticized image as gluttonous, lazy, and lecherous into that of a heroic, valiant man. After reading this novel, readers will understand why Zhu Bajie is so favored by women in the group of four on their journey to obtain the Buddhist scriptures. With its captivating plot, extraordinary imagination, boundless literary style, and humorous, fluent language, the novel paints a vivid and alluring picture for the readers.
Tianpeng, the original name of Zhu Bajie, was handsome, charming, and charismatic. Whether in the celestial realm or among mortals, he was the object of countless beauties' affection. Among thousands, Tianpeng was deeply devoted to Chang'e alone, and all his joys and sorrows, blessings and misfortunes, stemmed from this love. Chang'e was Tianpeng's lover, but in a bow competition for marriage, Tianpeng lost to Hou Yi, losing her to him. Subsequently, Chang'e married Hou Yi. To be with Chang'e every day, Tianpeng abandoned his divine status and descended to the mortal world. He then broke his promise not to reveal his identity, resulting in divine punishment and turning into a stone.
Because of Tianpeng, the beautiful and devoted Liu remained unmarried for her entire life, gathering hundreds of morning-glory petals and dewdrops daily to sprinkle on Tianpeng's stone, bringing him back to life. Everything began and ended with love. Tianpeng grew in love, learning to understand, forgive, and endure. This love is only meant for the heavens. After reading this story, readers will understand why Zhu Bajie is so charming to women.