He first appeared in Chapter 37 and nearly convinced Jiang Ziya to burn the Investiture through a display of his Taoist sorcery, which allowed him to stay alive even after cutting off his head.
Upon learning that Shen Gongbao would die if his head was not returned to his body in time, Jiang Ziya pleaded for his life, and he was spared.
Still holding a grudge against Jiang Ziya, he convinced many Jie Taoists to join the war in opposition of the Zhou army.
[5][6] In classical Chinese artwork, Shen Gongbao is frequently depicted as a deity riding a white-foreheaded tiger (白額虎), holding a treasure sword (寶劍) in one hand and a celestial pearl (開天珠) in the other, both possessing the ability to subdue demons.
In contrast, in Chinese opera, Shen Gongbao is often portrayed as a deity riding a black panther, with a dark, flowing beard, while one hand is raised high and the other is poised for action.