Jujutsu Kaisen showed us Geto’s domain a long time ago

Jujutsu Kaisen showed us Geto’s domain a long time ago

In the Jujutsu Kaisen manga, Gege Akutami cleverly foreshadowed Geto’s domain expansion earlier than anticipated. Although the domain used against Yuki Tsukumo and Choso in Shibuya seemed to belong to Kenjaku, various hints in Jujutsu Kaisen imply that it was, in fact, Geto’s domain we witnessed.

Although Gege’s identity as Kenjaku was not revealed until later, this theory suggests that Gege had cleverly foreshadowed his domain and ideology, which was later attributed to Geto. Despite some evidence indicating that the domain actually belonged to Geto, a closer examination of hand signs, name, imagery, connections to Gojo, and other subtle hints can make a compelling case for Gege’s early depiction of Geto’s domain.

Jujutsu Kaisen: Evidence Suggests Yuki’s Domain Expansion May Have Belonged to Geto Instead of Kenjaku

Jujutsu Kaisen - Geto's domain: Deeper than it appears (Image via Gege Akutami)
Jujutsu Kaisen – Geto’s domain: Deeper than it appears (Image via Gege Akutami)

Firstly, let’s examine the hand sign used to activate the Domain Expansion. Typically, domain hand signs are executed in one swift motion. However, Megumi performed his initial domain hand sign in two separate motions. Similarly, the hand sign for Garbhadhatu also consists of two distinct motions.

This implies that activating this specific domain is a novel concept, unlike the natural and intuitive process of a seasoned domain user such as Sukuna. Furthermore, Kenjaku could be observed gazing at his hands while performing the gesture, as if meticulously mimicking the movements, in contrast to a sorcerer who would effortlessly wield their innate domain.

Hands signs in Jujutsu Kaisen (Image via MAPPA Studio)
Hands signs in Jujutsu Kaisen (Image via MAPPA Studio)

The hand sign is known as an inverted “anti-fork gassho”and is the eighth form among the twelve Buddhist gassho hand forms. These twelve forms represent the different stages of attaining enlightenment, with the left hand representing the human world and the right hand symbolizing the world of enlightenment.

It is intriguing to note that this specific hand sign is not linked to any deities or bodhisattvas, aligning with Geto’s belief in the absence of gods. This suggests that the uncertain and unfamiliar hand sign is more likely associated with Geto’s domain rather than Kenjaku’s innate one.

The Significance of Buddhist Concepts in Jujutsu Kaisen’s Domain Names

Kenjaku's womb realm (Image via Gege Akutami)
Kenjaku’s womb realm (Image via Gege Akutami)

The Domain Expansion, known as 胎蔵遍野 (Taizō Hen’ya), is composed of two parts. The first part, 胎蔵界 (Taizōkai), represents the Womb Realm – a metaphysical realm in Buddhism that is home to the Five Compassion Buddhas. This realm is depicted in the Womb Realm Mandala, which symbolizes the early stage of enlightenment for Vairocana Buddha.

The second part of the name, 遍野 (Hen’ya), is a Chinese idiom that typically carries a negative connotation and translates to “all over the fields.”When combined, the name DE likely signifies the Buddhist belief that the presence of unenlightened beings results in suffering, while enlightenment brings liberation from suffering.

Despite not fully aligning with Kenjaku’s motivations, the theme of suffering in Jujutsu Kaisen is strongly connected to Geto’s goal of freeing sorcerers from pain. Geto believed in helping sorcerers achieve enlightenment and escape their suffering.

This also serves to demonstrate that Geto’s ideals remain unachievable when the aim is not to achieve universal enlightenment.

“I do not desire enlightenment, but esotericism”Geto said, and this Domain represents the unenlightened state he wished to reject.

Collaborations with Gojo

Gojo's domain hand sign explained (Image via Geje Akutami)
Gojo’s domain hand sign explained (Image via Geje Akutami)

The domain is symbolically linked to Gojo Satoru as a representation of his unenlightened state.

The Limitless technique used by Gojo embodies the Buddhist belief of sunyata, or “emptiness”and “voidness”. This technique allows him to manipulate space by creating a seemingly endless void between himself and his attacks, similar to Vairocana’s embodiment of sunyata.

Gojo’s domain hand sign is connected to Vairocana through its resemblance to half of Marici’s seal, as Marici is one of the emanations of Vairocana. This association thus links Gojo to Vairocana.

Vairocana is characterized by a pure white complexion, while Gojo is recognized for his white hair and light-colored attire.

In the Womb Realm Mandala, Vairocana is portrayed at the heart of an eight-petaled lotus. Similarly, the center of the mandala representing the domain features Gojo at the core of an eight-petaled flower.

It may seem unusual for Kenjaku’s domain to have such strong ties to Gojo. Nevertheless, it is logical for Geto to design a domain that embodies Gojo in this manner, as he believed Gojo had the power to liberate sorcerers from their afflictions – similar to guiding them towards enlightenment. Additionally, Vairocana is often depicted as the primary source of enlightenment for those seeking it.

The domain incorporates Vairocana’s symbolism to portray Gojo Satoru as an unenlightened individual, in line with the concept of the Womb Realm.

Exploring the Inner Workings of the Sure-Hit Technique: Analyzing Combat Strategies for the Domain Expansion

Jujutsu Kaisen - Cursed Spirit Manipulation (Image via MAPPA Studio)
Jujutsu Kaisen – Cursed Spirit Manipulation (Image via MAPPA Studio)

In order to understand the true impact of the domain, it is important to consider the injuries Yuki endured when her basic domain was obliterated – her right arm was contorted and compressed. This mirrors the method used by cursed spirits to twist themselves into a ball through the Cursed Spirit Manipulation technique.

It is noteworthy that Maki had experienced similar harm earlier in the narrative, although the precise instance of her injury was not shown. It is possible that she was not directly harmed by a cursed spirit, but rather by Geto’s use of Cursed Spirit Manipulation on her.

If the sure-hit was anti-gravity, we would anticipate observing distinct consequences. The domain’s empty barrier slabs did not begin to fall until Tengen commenced erasing the barrier, rather than immediately when the domain was activated. Furthermore, when Choso and Garuda were subjected to anti-gravity, they were flattened against a slab rather than being twisted.

Sure hit technique - Maki and Yuki have the same hand injury (Image via Gege Akutami)
Sure hit technique – Maki and Yuki have the same hand injury (Image via Gege Akutami)

The imagery within the domain is also linked to Cursed Spirit Manipulation and reflects Geto’s desire to save sorcerers from pain. If this were Kenjaku’s domain, the faces would likely be more varied to represent his various disguises. However, Geto treats all sorcerers equally, resulting in the uniformity of the anguished faces.

Overall, the destruction inflicted upon Yuki and the collapsing slabs, along with the visual imagery, suggest that Cursed Spirit Manipulation is the true culprit, rather than anti-gravity, within the domain.

Visual Representation in the Field

The domain is filled with many anguished faces, conveying the suffering that jujutsu sorcerers endure. This aligns with Geto’s goal of rescuing sorcerers from their pain and struggles, as he aims to liberate them from the oppression of the jujutsu authorities and society as a whole. These tormented expressions serve as a visual representation of the suffering that Geto is determined to eradicate.

In Jujutsu Kaisen, it is probable that the domain belongs to Geto rather than Kenjaku. The resemblance between their faces implies that Geto shares a belief in fair treatment for sorcerers, which aligns with his goal of saving them and is consistent with his character in the series.

Foreshadowing of Geto’s Domain Expansion in Jujutsu Kaisen

Jujutsu Kaisen - Geto's Shadow in chapter names (Image via Gege Akutami)
Jujutsu Kaisen – Geto’s Shadow in chapter names (Image via Gege Akutami)

Maki’s injuries in the Jujutsu Kaisen 0 movie are reminiscent of Yuki’s injuries from when Geto’s Domain was used. Maki’s arm is twisted in a similar manner, suggesting that Geto may have employed the same technique against her.

Furthermore, the titles of the chapters Blood and Oil and Star and Oil further imply Geto’s involvement, as his name contains the kanji for “oil”. This strongly suggests that Geto utilized his abilities against the protagonists.

Both Geto and Kenjaku share a connection with Buddhist compassion. Geto’s approach closely resembles that of Kannon, the Bodhisattva of Compassion. The domain’s depiction of suffering aligns with Geto’s goal of liberating sorcerers.

The origin of Kenjaku’s name is rooted in Fukukenjaku Kannon, a merciful deity. However, his territory does not display his typical shapeshifting abilities. Instead, all the faces bear a resemblance, reflecting Geto’s belief in equal treatment of sorcerers.

Despite Kenjaku’s actions being motivated by curiosity, Geto’s goal is to alleviate the sorcerers’ suffering. The domain seems to reflect Geto’s empathetic intentions rather than Kenjaku’s, implying that Geto may have been the one responsible for its creation.

Distinguishing Features of the Taizo Hen’ya Domain Expansion and Its Contrast with Kenjaku’s Domain

Initially, the hand gesture used to activate the domain appears uncertain and hesitant as the user looks down at their hands while performing it. This implies that the user is still in the process of learning and is not yet fully familiar with this domain. However, given Kenjaku’s extensive experience as an ancient sorcerer, he would be able to effortlessly and smoothly perform any domain hand sign.

The collection of ideas and images within the domain align with Gojo Satoru’s pursuit of knowledge and personal development, which is not typically associated with Kenjaku.

Furthermore, the domain is filled with anguished faces, which do not align with Kenjaku’s persona, known for his numerous disguises throughout history. These pained expressions are better suited for Geto, who sought to alleviate the suffering of fellow magic users.

In summary, the ambiguous hand gesture and the domain’s profound symbolism of growth, along with the pained expression, all suggest that Geto is more likely to be the one behind it, rather than Kenjaku. Despite sharing the same meaning of kindness, Geto’s actions and values show genuine concern for others, whereas Kenjaku’s do not. This unique ability also diverges from Kenjaku’s usual approach and aligns more with Geto’s beliefs and principles.

According to the available evidence, it can be strongly inferred that the Domain Expansion employed against Yuki and Choso belonged to Suguru Geto, rather than Kenjaku. This is supported by significant factors in Jujutsu Kaisen, such as the specific hand sign and the Buddhist-inspired domain name, which are more in line with Geto’s ideology and history, rather than Kenjaku’s.

The symbolism present in both the domain and the sure-hit technique align with Geto’s abilities and intentions in the narrative, suggesting that the domain was a manifestation of Geto rather than a new invention by Kenjaku.

Is Geto Suguru present in Jujutsu Kaisen after the conclusion of season 2? This question is clarified below.

At the end of Jujutsu Kaisen 0, what was Gojo’s message to Geto? It will be clarified.

Explained: The reason behind Geto’s transformation to evil in Jujutsu Kaisen

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *