The highly-anticipated moment in Jujutsu Kaisen chapter 264 finally arrived as Yuji Itadori unveiled his Domain Expansion. Fans had been eagerly speculating about the form and timing of the young sorcerer’s ultimate Jujutsu technique.
Gege Akutami, the creator, effectively resolves all doubts by unexpectedly introducing it, which almost guarantees defeat for the Demon King who had clung onto power for a considerable time. Interestingly, the hand gesture used by Yuji to activate his Domain is the mudra of Jizo or Ksitigarbha, a bodhisattva known for guiding others towards enlightenment.
This could be an indication of Ryomen Sukuna’s destiny and, ultimately, the result of the battle.
Jujutsu Kaisen: The Possible Connection Between Sukuna and Yuji’s Domain Hand Sign
What does the Yuji’s Domain hand sign mean?
In chapter 264 of Jujutsu Kaisen, Yuji utilizes a hand gesture to initiate his Domain Expansion, as is the customary practice. However, his chosen gesture is distinct, as it represents Jizo, also known as Jizo Bosatsu, the patron deity of children and travelers. This deity is often referred to as the ‘earth bearer’ and is believed to possess spiritual strength for safeguarding and longevity.
Jizo made a solemn promise to save all living beings from the suffering they experience in the Six Realms of reincarnation. These realms include the Heaven Realm, the Human Realm, the Asura Realm, the Animal Realm, the Hungry Ghost Realm, and the Hell Realm. In Japanese villages, 6 statues of Jizo are placed to symbolize his mission to relieve the suffering of beings in these 6 realms.
In Sanskrit, Jizo is known as Ksitigarbha, a Bodhisattva who leads others towards “enlightenment”before achieving it himself. Ksitigarbha made a vow to not attain Buddhahood until all “hells”were cleansed. As a result, he is worshipped as the Bodhisattva of hell-beings, the protector of children, and the patron deity of deceased children and aborted fetuses in Japanese tradition.
Tying into Jujutsu Kaisen
Throughout its run, Jujutsu Kaisen has consistently drawn upon elements of Buddhism and Japanese folklore. This is particularly evident in Yuji’s use of the Domain hand sign, which perfectly aligns with the themes and references present in the series. For instance, the story of Jizo, a figure who sought to atone for their mother’s wrongdoings by performing good deeds and restoring balance, ties in seamlessly with Yuji’s own journey.
Yuji considers Kenjaku, his parent who had committed heinous crimes during their lifetime, to be responsible for his actions. In light of Sukuna’s complete resurrection and all that has transpired since Chapter 1, Yuji is convinced that eliminating Sukuna is crucial for the world to be completely cleansed.
Jizo’s role as protector extends to the spirits of both aborted fetuses and deceased children. Such is the case for Yuji, who is the son of Sukuna’s twin, who was consumed in the womb. In other words, his life was taken away before he was born. Therefore, it can be argued that Yuji is seeking revenge on Sukuna for his past wrongdoings.
The Possible Fate of Sukuna
It is apparent that this all connects to Sukuna’s likely destiny. It is undeniable that during the Heian Era, when Sukuna was confined to 20 fingers and now upon his complete resurrection, he was a terror. His immense strength portrayed him as a danger and numerous individuals sought to eliminate him. In simpler terms, they wanted to rid the world of his malevolence.
Additionally, Sukuna’s existence began with him committing fratricide in the womb by consuming his twin. It is also worth noting that Sukuna cannot ascend in the Jujutsu Society until he is defeated and Hell is purged. This adds an intriguing element to the story as Sukuna’s hand sign, Enma Ten-In, is symbolic of his title as the “King of Hell.”
Akutami’s release of the Mandala artwork offers yet another intriguing aspect as it showcases Yuji, Sukuna, Gojo, and Kenjaku within a Buddhist Taizokai/Womb World Mandala. When the artwork is flipped, Yuji is seen in the position of Jizo. This further supports the idea that Yuji was destined to be Sukuna’s ultimate adversary and ultimately rid the world of the Demon King.
- Jujutsu Kaisen chapter 264 spoilers
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- Jujutsu Kaisen finally reveals Yuji’s Domain Expansion against Sukuna
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