Written by u/BrushInc
The Dark Mirror
I could probably write a whole other ‘short’ essay on him. Mahito was never truly a hypocrite, while all humans are...that means likely his name was his only falsity: Mahito translates to “true human.”
I actually can’t remember when or where I heard this phrase, or if I made it up (unlikely). I googled it, but I only get results for the TV show Black Mirror, which I’ve seen and it's similar yet different… there’s an old movie I’ve never heard of called The Dark Mirror with a good plot synopsis page if you feel so inclined. Basically… it’s like your shadow- actually I don’t feel like describing this for some reason, use your intuition while looking at this screenshot from the first OP lol I ran out of steam while editing sorry
many Dark, much edge. But really, many characters have their own dark mirrors, and Sukuna is so for Itadori, Gojo, and even Fushiguro.
Anyway- Buddhism and Shintoism are not monotheistic. (In Japan, they also have combined, so as they exist in Japan now is in a way that is not really separable, for the record.) Buddhism is a set of beliefs/practices and a type of path to end suffering, while Shintoism is polytheistic. So, the monotheism of the TVA was an interesting and significant detail to add to the manga, especially considering it’s a religious group centered around Tengen, and also appears to be a cult. Similar to how Jujutsu society is centered around Tengen and another individual connected to him, Gojo.
I think those of us in the West may not think of this as strange right away, since we’re more accustomed to monotheistic religions. And so, it may be offensive to some to hear monotheism labeled as cultic, but this is how followers of specific deities within a polytheistic pantheon are denominated too; for example, the cults around Greek gods, demigods, and heroes in the ancient polytheistic religion. The definition is broad, ranging from derogatory to merely descriptive. There’s even this good video on cults that says:
“[...] The biggest joke in religious studies is that cult + time = religion.”
Besides, this is also the work of one author, who is criticizing this kind of worship.
My next observation is that many sorcerers, including our favorite ones, display views or beliefs or attitudes which are like affronts to Buddhist beliefs. I am not an expert in Buddhism in Japan, and I don’t want to go on writing this forever, so what comes to mind and what I will discuss are the quotes by characters like Gojo, Sukuna, and Todo when they quote Buddhist texts— yet they turn them into something which only displays their own arrogance.
What is actually said next to Sukuna actually is 天上天下唯我独尊 (Tenjo tenge yuiga dokuson) if you want to check it yourself (which I did), the same as what Gojo said. Credit for this translation correction goes to the JujutsuTrivia twitter link below. Above, ch 75, 30, 126 respectively
It’s more prevalent among the fans to know that Gojo and Sukuna are quoting/indirectly using the quote of what Buddha said when he was born. This quote of Buddha is taken by them and used to display their arrogance because they are comparing themselves to Buddha, an enlightened being with a selfless purpose, as Gege even goes on record to say. Especially for Gojo, it's not a triumphant moment like is commonly believed, but one of arrogance, given the smug ass look on his face. Todo’s is less obvious, and I read about it from another fan who recognized the quote. The meaning of the quote describes the impermanence of all things, a tenet preached in Buddhism; however, Todo turns this quote around, and says all is impermanent “except them,” the sorcerers. This foreshadows his defeat and the ironic loss of his technique, with the story showing us that his arrogance was not rewarded; and his technique has now passed on, impermanent.
Kenjaku also hijacks and twists Buddhist beliefs. He wants to “evolve” humans. In Buddhism, the 'evolution’ of humans is complete when we have lived enough lives while achieving peace through things like nonviolence, and have escaped the cycle of suffering through dedicated practice, to then attain enlightenment and nirvana, the name of this state. Yet, Kenjaku wants to do this through committing atrocities and sacrifice via cursed energy, which is formed of negative emotion and human suffering… the total opposite of what should be done.
This idea of Jujutsu being a dark mirror to Buddhism continues with my observations in my comment which prompted this lengthy analysis:
“The time vessel association that killed Amanai rose at the same time as Jujutsu to bridge the gap between Jujutsu, and religion (Buddhism), which promotes far more peaceful ideas. This puts Jujutsu in contrast to peace. This puts the prevention of Tengen's "impure merger" into perspective, to show that his fall equates the fall of Jujutsu and the fall of the current peace/status quo, in a mixture of suffering and religious idealism. It clearly has a doomsday feel to it, like a death cult [...].”
The TVA was supposed to “bridge” Jujutsu and Buddhism, highlighting that the two are more like opposites. The cult succeeds in its goals, but seems to have views more similar to Kenjaku’s than anything: to allow humanity to fall with Tengen, this singularly worshipped figure, and allow an “evolution” similar to everyone achieving nirvana, like Buddhism. However, its monotheism centers around Tengen, just as Jujutsu society’s centers around Tengen and his barrier (and Gojo). These two things should immediately throw suspicion on Jujutsu society.
Another part of my original comment:
“I think we overlook what Jujutsu is for in the first place [...]. How only a few hundred years after its inception in Japan, Sukuna rose in the Heian era during a constant chaotic, bloodthirsty power struggle that became known as "the Golden age of Jujutsu." Based on that description, I think the true purpose of Jujutsu was only to take power. Sacrifice human lives and take power over others.”
Monotheism, hierarchies of power, blood and sacrifice, using human suffering to attain goals, regret, immortality… These are things associated with Jujutsu, or what can be achieved through Jujutsu.
Even the goal of modern sorcerers using Jujutsu is to fight curses with curses: in the end, this only achieves a net zero of suffering. It is impossible to actually create good in the world through Jujutsu, even through staunch resistance to impulses to become a curse user.
Through my little bit of research, I came across this information about Buddhism in Japan:
“Some Japanese go to temple to talk or consult with monks, but for the vast majority of the people here, [a] funeral is the only time to see Buddhism. Or the Buddhist memorial service, which is the first or third anniversary gathering of a relative's death. [...] So when the Japanese hear "Buddhism," what comes to their minds first is death.”
-Buddhist priest from this video.
Buddhism is associated with death in Japan, to the modern Japanese. We open the story with Itadori practicing a Buddhist ceremony for his grandpa’s death. This is the only time when increasingly many Japanese people encounter Buddhism, despite living amongst these ideas which historically may have helped them in their lives and given them peace **But this is not Gege's final message about religion, so please keep reading through to the end for that**. An acceptance of death and impermanence, tolerance, and reducing suffering are integral to Buddhism. It influences Japan deeply, even if not as many people do not actively practice it (aka living in cultural Buddhism).
In the story, Jujutsu represents several things. But the truth about Jujutsu - and those who practice it - is that it opposes and even bastardizes Buddhism.
Enter: Christian Imagery
First time the G Docs grammar wizard made me laugh instead of giving me high blood pressure 🤬 Don’t ever autocorrect Mahito to ‘Mojito’ ever again u dumb shit
G Docs grammar wizard strikes again.
We actually have a lil mix of religions present in JJK, it’s not just Buddhism. Which is how it is for many large countries, but especially how Japan is. However, each religion is being used in specific ways. Let’s explore the Christian imagery that pops up.
And let’s start with the most obvious details. First, the “next coming of Christ,” so to speak:
wittle baby Gojo 😍 and... baby Jesus ig
Gojo is the visible idol at the center of modern Jujutsu society, with all kinds of sorcerers heralding the end of the world now that he’s gone. His baby picture here is depicted in a way that immediately tickled my memory and reminded me of imagery of baby Jesus. Hence, the monotheism. There’s a phrase I’ve always hated, and luckily I think it’s kind of out of style now, but in English there’s the sort of compliment of a person to call them “God-fearing,” meaning they are very religious (and in my part of the world, usually very Christian). All sorcerers are Gojo-fearing for the most part.
Next, is another obvious one, probably most obvious. The newly introduced sorcerer, Hana Kurusu, aka Angel.
yep, they’re angels. Also i been thinking this whole time- who fucking unironically goes around dressed like that, especially as a sorcerer… a psychopath with an angel complex that’s who i’m calling it now
Self-explanatory, but let me break it down. In the Bible, angels with trumpets seem to be mostly referring to a prophecy that seven angels will sound seven trumpets and each will announce seven prophesied waves of events/judgements onto mankind that constitute the apocalypse, which ends with The Final Judgement afterward; all of this is the end of the world in Christian doctrines. However, upon researching this, I found another detail. What signals the sounding of each of the seven trumpets, is the breaking of the seven seals:
i dont have a funny caption for this. Kenny breaking the seal in Shibuya to start the apocalypse ch 136. and here we go cannonballing into the toilet.
So, Gege is really giving us a bonafide apocalypse. With Gojo as a Christ-like figure. If we want to go a little deeper, the Second Coming of Christ is supposed to signal the end of the world I mentioned above— and Gojo is also a reborn avatar of Six Eyes, so maybe Jujutsu society had no chance after all lol. Jesus is also said to “take away the sin of the world.” Just as Gojo has shielded Jujutsu society from many threats that would have consumed them otherwise.
I thought this mix of various religious imagery - between Buddhism and Shinto, and Christianity - was weird until I realized what Gege was doing (the contents of this whole essay). Like, there is another seemingly random detail, like how Amanai went to a missionary school despite hailing from sorcery, and her choir class was in a chapel. These idols of Gojo and Tengen, who Amanai was supposed to become, combined with the emphasis of monotheism - and Christianity no less - paint a very specific picture. Gojo is literally the god of the Jujutsu world, coming from “his father God” before him, Tengen, his- I would argue creator. —> (Lmao plug to my other meta where I argue Tengen created Six Eyes and Star Plasma Vessel to maintain his immortality and it is not “fate” in point 4a.) They are the trinity: The Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit (sorry Amanai). (I also understand the number 3 has its own significance in Japan, but these meanings overlap making it even cooler)
And let’s see… like I hinted in the previous section, this picture is not shedding good light on monotheism, though.
We should not forget how Christianity is a minority religion in Japan, despite being the largest religion in the world. And let’s not also forget why that is... It was brought in by missionaries during the European colonization period not once but twice: by the Portuguese during the Sengoku period and spread by daimyos (feudal lords) who converted to Christianity and made their subjects follow, and again after the forced reopening of Japan by the Americans just before the start of the Meiji restoration. If you're not aware, Christian-led colonization is the major reason why Japan isolated itself for ~200 years... it was an act of self-defense.
Despite being a minority in Japan, I do not think this is an argument to not criticize Christianity, which was used as a tool of colonialism and imperialism not just toward Japan, but across the world. Many bloody, terrible things have been done in the name of Christianity (see: hundreds of unmarked graves recently uncovered in Canada at Christian residential “schools,” where the victims were Native American children specifically. The last one closed in 1996). It has been a tool at the heart of several continent-wide and global empires, as a uniting force, usually imposed by force and by stoking fears of eternal damnation after death.
However, this does not excuse Japan’s own imperialism and violence, which I believe is being criticized by Gege as well. The contrast of a "fictional" bloody hierarchy of Jujutsu power set in the Heian era, which is an era of peace and well before European colonialism, is intentional: there is much beauty and wonderful things to Japanese culture, but there is also a history of violence and massacres right alongside it. From Japan’s own civil wars and violence toward indigenous peoples (like the Ainu, who've been name-dropped), to Japan’s imperialism toward its neighbors. We cannot escape the evils of the past by pretending to forget them, because the effects persist and they continue to happen right now (as exemplified by Sukuna and Kenjaku’s effects/returns, and the traditional lives of the clans in the present). Not recognizing these things makes us complicit in the suffering of the victims.
Like I said, Jujutsu is meant to represent a few things at once, so we're seeing how powerful of a metaphor it's turning out to be.
So. Despite how subtle the presentation actually is, monotheism is also not being portrayed in a good light, but as antagonistic in the story of JJK. To be totally clear: Jujutsu is being portrayed as monotheistic and as a dark mirror to Buddhism, and this is being reinforced by using some monotheistic Christian imagery and details within Jujutsu society. Creating an overall negative picture of Jujutsu/Christianity/bloodlust/violence in comparison to Buddhism.
However, Christianity is not the only monotheistic religion, right? There are other major world religions which are monotheistic, like Islam and Judaism (which to be fair, I am much less adept at recognizing, so feel free to point out a mistake if I made one, but I don’t think I did), but they are not being criticized and used to criticize here because they do not have the same negative history with Japan that Christianity does. And in case I got some reactionaries reading, NO, I am not advocating for the end of Christians and Christianity- that’s happening on it’s own I am just not buying into propaganda and glossing over the reality of what happened. Neither is Gege, it seems.
What I believe he is concurrently drawing attention to is the kind of monotheistic zeal seen in other parts of Japanese society lately.
Idol Culture: Japan’s Latest Religion
(cont. below)
Tokyo Idols (2017)
Gege reportedly wanted to write an Idol manga after making the prequel.
I know we like to joke about how so far removed JJK is from such an Idol manga, but I don’t really think it is. I didn’t research that hard for this analysis, but I did do like, a little bit- I watched the documentary Tokyo Idols and found the above validating quote in the first minute; I read and watched a few more journalistic pieces on Idol culture in Japan. I tried to get an idea of what fans and critics think about idols through reading forum threads, because I personally have never been into it or even really understood that it existed until semi-recently (yeah I’m kind of oblivious sometimes, so it’s ok to laugh).
Overall, I want to say Idol culture is a super weird phenomenon, but it’s not that foreign to me, because in the West we have pop stars and teen stars and talent recruiters and a whole history of an industry that abuses these young entertainers who have dreams of creating— and it keeps rejuvenating itself through mediums like TikTok, Youtube, etc. As I was writing this, Britney Spears was pleading her case in court to be freed from her conservatorship, which was enforced due to her mental health breakdown from being severely harassed by paparazzi for years and years, among other abuses throughout her career which started when she was a teen. Japan just has its own brand of this culture, like other countries do, too.
So, let’s see what Gege is saying about it.
When creators have an issue close to their heart, it tends to show up as a theme in their work; for example, like Miyazaki’s films. I could see how criticizing the Idol industry/monotheism like Gege likely is, also criticizes the manga and anime industries, which are brutal on creative and passionate people, and exploit them; they too hold certain legendary creators high up on pedestals. These themes in JJK which I’m discussing today are probably what an Idol manga from Gege would have/could be centered around. I think this kind of criticism is, fortunately for the artists’ sake, becoming more popular and vocal, too. Recently I even saw Aggretsuko taking shots at Idol culture, and it was great (also a great show, check it out if you haven’t).
Yet, there is a lot going on here to talk about.
Top: commentary by chief Idol officer Itaru Tsurami (idk that’s his title he seemed to know what was up). Bottom: Hardcore Idol fan Koji, 43, gives a speech to his “brothers” at a performance by Rio. Followed by comments on his experience within Idol culture.
With religious beliefs declining in many countries around the world, including Japan, many people still like having something to believe in. In JJK, some characters substitute moral devotion to their cause with money— as do many people in our world. Buying and consuming goods, media, and ideas take over. For increasingly many, it’s the curated personalities of visible celebrities, youtubers, streamers, tiktokers, bloggers, any content creator over the internet. This decline in religion, which is theorized to stabilize human psychology, is happening alongside a rise in instability around the world due to rising wealth inequality, the climate crisis, and a rise in political extremism, which has its subset of religious extremism. This is something that JJK also criticizes through characters like Geto, who chooses political extremism and acts on it. And in ways, facing hardships and adhering staunchly to beliefs are directly related.
With this combination of changes within human communities and ways of living, some new phenomena are bound to happen and new things taking religion’s place— or really, new religions and forms of worship are born.
So, let’s talk about the psychology theory I mentioned. This kind of religious devotion to idols and content creators is not even so far removed from JJK’s theme of death, in fact. There is a social and evolutionary psychology theory called Terror Management Theory, based on its predecessor work titled Denial of Death, which states that much of human culture, including most forms of beliefs, arise out of the psychological need to avoid the fact of death, and that we can die at any moment. Humans are so far unique in our ability to imagine dying in the next moment while we sit in a safe environment, instead of only encountering these fears in life-threatening situations. The theory states that without proper management of this terror, humans enter psychological distress. This has been solved by humans by inventing cultures, which are ways to engage with life without constantly thinking of death.
(The book I read that presents TMT is called Worm at the Core: On the Role of Death in Life if you want to check it out. It’s not jargon-y in the slightest, and quite interesting.)
So, Idol culture is rising because people are afraid to die? Seems far fetched at first, but my main point is that Gege is most certainly criticizing the rise in monotheistic zeal seen in Idol culture, and in people’s worldviews in this modern era— particularly in Japan, but it’s happening everywhere. Throughout doing this analysis, I found it increasingly interesting how he incorporates generational and even inter-era conflicts into JJK, because so much of these kinds of problems like unhealthy parasocial relationships, the type of modern loneliness that is frequently discussed and embodied in Itadori and Gojo, and even cults (which we are seeing a bit of a boom in apparently, like Qanon x)- are products or hallmarks of this modern era and way of living.
I think he is crucially criticizing the distance from death, and from each other, which many modern people have, especially in the developed world. Without religion - and community - as a stabilizing force, people are left floundering a bit- more like a lot. Other things like hypocrisy in the face of Buddhism, or any religion really, is not new, but is self-evident (see: I am a big fan of Sword of the Stranger, which actually has a lot of similarities with JJK and its theme is hypocrisy, I love it so much, check it out, there’s an Itadori in it too, please talk to me about it lol 😩). ...But this is not his final message about religion, so please keep reading through to the end for that. (thought I’d just say it again lol)
I think the main takeaway I got from Tokyo Idols and through my research, is that Idol culture is like a crystallization of many problems in modern Japanese society. It seems to be the most powerful outcrop of the rent-a-person industry (like rent a girlfriend/boyfriend/whole family, that’s real. plus things like maid cafes, and other services industries that go above and beyond to give a fantasy). It is the intersection of modern isolation, the suffocating duties of adulthood, the pressures of work culture, women’s rights and gender roles, family structures, cultural ideals, and rejection from a rigid society that offers few other options. It’s a product of capitalism, the Problem-Causing Machine, too. And all of this is why he’s pinpointing Idol culture as a problem. And Idol culture itself focuses primarily on young, usually underage girls, and what service they specifically can provide...
Now, people love to pretend that gender doesn’t exist. But there absolutely is the gender aspect of idol culture. It requires perfect adherence to gender ideals, never subversion or freedom from them.
Top: commentary by journalist Minori Kitahara. Bottom: Rio, 19, who the documentary primarily follows, gives her personal thoughts about her job.
Yes, Idol culture doesn't just prey on young people, but particularly on young girls. Not all of Gege’s gender commentary is about Idol culture. But some of it does have to do with the idols at the center of Jujutsu society: Tengen and his, uh… servants? Sacrifices? ...you know, Gojo and Amanai. Amanai was like at the prime age for a junior idol, and with all the charm, too.
Tengen is a more androgynous figure (really a he/she/they sort of person), however the only visible person set to become his vessel was Amanai— who was to become the idol at the center of J society as a young girl. Which makes the connection to Idol culture super clear. She is very cute, young, and full of a kind of spunk that is endearing and true, a person who hopes for the future and to live a full life. This is cut short by the contract she engages in by the “fate” of being Tengen’s vessel. Frequently, young girls who sign up to be idols sign on via contracts for many grueling years with little compensation and only a hope for a reward, as we see with Amanai. To me, this part was very on the nose.
The fact that the binding vow is at the center of Jujutsu, a literal contract, which Idols are notoriously roped into for years, is very telling and on the nose as well. Legal contracts are binding, and you can get in a lot of trouble or give up a lot of your rights if you break or sign the wrong one.
And also...let’s talk about one other little tiny detail that I haven’t been able to get over because of how it creeped me out. What exactly were you going to do to Amanai before the merger, Tengen??
”breaking in the body???” what the fuck is this supposed to mean other than exactly what it sounds like?? ch 145
I don’t know if it was just me, but while reading, I didn’t fully consider until this moment the horror that Amanai was likely going to face in the Tomb, while Tengen would perform the ritual to erase her and impose himself/herself/themself upon her body. She was about to walk into that room to die. Yet definitely worse than that, and while carrying doubts in her heart if Geto (and Gojo) hadn’t said something. That was not the way to her happiness, and as messed up as it may seem at first to say, I think she did die happy. Like Fushiguro said to Itadori at the detention center, a bullet to the head is better than whatever the fuck was going to happen to her in there through cursed energy. This is clearly an analogy (but not direct one) depicting the horrible realities of the abuse young, unassuming girls can face in the idol industry, and a very strong message by Gege.
Really, someone get me a nail bat with CT nullification and point me toward that tomb, baby, this ends now. 🩸🩸
In the story, we also see Takada, an actual working Idol. She’s mostly mentioned as a part of Todo’s character and the resulting gags, but with the few details given, it’s shown that her true personality is definitely different from the Idol persona she plays. They’re subtle details, but I noticed them, so I’ll break them down for you.
- She rejects Todo, despite the action and storyline literally being a figment of his imagination, because she’s interested in someone else. Idols are not allowed to date, because they’re supposed to appear single and ready to potentially date fans at all times. So, good on Todo for accepting that while being a devoted fan, I guess…? (also pls help is this a reference or his fantasy?? does he just want to get killed by a tall lady? same tbh)
- In her TV special, she wants to drink and may be drunk as Todo says; Idols are typically not allowed to drink or use drugs, for the most part. She also seems to have a healthy appetite, despite her act being super girly and petite; she may even be lying about her age (as in, she’s older than she said she is, because idols are preferred young...), as suggested by her co-host.
- Lastly in a Juju stroll, Takada is hinted to be romantically interested in Mai (and vice versa). So, she may not even be interested in men at all, and has to hide this for her job— which is like a 24/7 gig. She asks Mai to come back to another handshake event one day, she will remember her from the brief encounter, because it seems she can’t even ask Mai out on a private date. Which is just insanely unfair.
If Gege wanted to just indulge in creating an idol manga with fluffy ideas or whatever, he wouldn’t be so interested in including such details for a hardly there side character. He takes the time to show that even a gag character like Takada is clearly human despite her consuming job and role. And it doesn’t end there.
Look, I’ll never pass up a chance to talk about Gojo. But he legitimately suffers from this greatly, too- and his gender does factor in as well. He is this Christ-like figure, but he is also reminiscent of a beautiful male idol. Like I am positive there are thirsty Jesus Christ stans out there but I’m going to remain blissfully ignorant for as long as I can
(cont. below)
please humor me, i’m trying to have fun, and this is only my first ever collage of Gojo pictures so i don’t actually have a problem, okay? this is for an analytical essay joke only 😤
also this is the only picture I didn’t shrink for space purposes lmao
I’m not going to go on forever - even tho I obviously can - because I already wrote another meta about a facet of this. But basically, people refuse to see him as human, but prefer the beautiful, rich, powerful, talented, and rare reborn Six Eyes holder who is “The Strongest Sorcerer,” so no one really knows him, no one allows him to be vulnerable and human and his own person. If he is, he’s basically kicked in the nuts for it. And then locked in a box for 1000 years; or stabbed 32 times. AKA harsh, harsh consequences. He is feared - and he also has in-story fans like an idol?? lol Miwa - but does anybody love him? Does anybody care about him, how he feels inside? No one seems to want to know him. And especially as a man, he’s just expected to stay strong and be cool. I do not think he wants to be, but what choice does he have? He slipped up like one time and the apocalypse started… Like for fuck’s sake. [yells for the interns] Can we get this guy a hug and some warm milk please?!
Yeah so, we’ve discoursed before about how even the fanbase has this sort of reaction to Gojo too, and can miss his deeper characterization, opting for superficiality and ~GOD COMPLEX~ when his humanity is depicted quite nicely. I actually think this is very much on purpose by Gege. Obviously the marketing team is in on it, too— which has successfully played me and my heart if I’m being honest. 😔💸💕 If you’re really wondering, I bought one (1) Gojo t-shirt...and I never buy merch. Like guys...help… I think this has less to do with the Christian themes—which are, once again, minimal and used to emphasize JJ’s opposition to Buddhism—and similarly in Amanai’s case, all used to show how idolizing someone dehumanizes them. This is probably my main point of this whole thing so I’ll say it again: Idolizing someone dehumanizes them, and it usually dehumanizes you, too. We gotta ask, why do you think they’re so much better than yourself to the point that they’re worthy of worship?
Gojo may be ‘the god of the Jujutsu world’ but Gege’s clearly making him human. With that, Gege is saying there are no gods, only humans and curses, which are frequently blurring the line to be basically human anyway.
Even Tengen is known as Hoshi, which translates to “The Star”... you know, like a celebrity or an idol. Such as in the famous Hollywood Walk of Fame (well not that famous because I had to google what it’s called lmao), where the famous people’s names are cemented inside star shapes on the sidewalks...immortalized. To be famous and adored by a faceless crowd of followers is transcendence beyond a miniscule, meaningless, average life, right?
Right?
For real, so many of these Idols are held to insane expectations, have their rights taken away through contracts, and have “some of the best years of their lives” stolen by an insane lifestyle. They’re exposed to abuse by their managers, but also by their fans, especially if they step out of line. The followings are becoming more cult-like and dangerous, especially since companies/managers are encouraging unhealthy parasocial interactions to make bank. I can’t find a way to defend it, and will probably side-eye you if you do. I agree with the unflattering lens Gege is putting on these behaviors and consequences, and I think if he makes an Idol manga in the future, he’s going to tear the industry a new one while flipping off the camera.
So… What Does It Mean? What Does It All Mean??
(cont. below)
beats me girl, by now all my ideas are running together like it just makes sense already ok? ok 💋
Still with me? I’ve made a lot of points along the way, but let me sum it all up what I think Gege is saying overall with a little more analysis here.
Without a set of beliefs like Buddhism, humans do still have to find a way to manage their fear of death, which is what Itadori does: he loses his grandpa to death, and without anyone or anything else there, eats poison on purpose and throws himself at a secret, fringe, cult-like group that wants to execute him- kidding kidding not kidding haha jk jk guys it’s not that serious... No, Itadori’s like, Not Ok™ if I’m being honest. He’s trying his best for sure, but he’s still struggling with how to perceive death— and life. A lot of characters are. But he in particular is at great risk for not thinking about his own suffering and his own life, instead substituting this confrontation with “the curse” of his grandfather’s words.
(cont. below)
Ugh, I still like the anime version of it, but the fact that Itadori WILLINGLY eats the first finger is so important. And strange. It’s strange on purpose. I do not think he was thinking straight. He’s a lonely person who had just become more alone. Also, I think Yaga does the interviewing like this because of what happened to Geto, who Itadori parallels (eating curses). ch 3
It was very important that Yaga forced Itadori to think about what he was doing in his interview to get into JTech. Honestly, he needs more adults right now in the story who can challenge his way of thinking again, and guide him with more wisdom and compassion. Itadori knows he will die, and this hurts him because he doesn’t want his life to end— but he doesn’t have to zealously commit himself to a cause that makes him suffer more, just because it’s the only distraction he can find. He literally doesn’t have to fight, he could just stay in his room and people could bring him fingers— he could enjoy the rest of his life peacefully instead. Jujutsu, clearly, is not helping him do this.
Infamous ch 120. Same chapter Nanami died in. What Nanami was going to tell Itadori was, “Run Away.” Itadori and Nanami both should have withdrawn from the fight. Neither of them were fit to fight anymore. Losing to Choso in a fight is what allowed Sukuna to be freed. He didn’t even get to kill Mahito in the end, but aided Kenny.
So, here is what I think Gege is saying about this—and about religion and morality and beliefs. Gege seems to put Buddhism in a good light, as I've pointed out. However, from the way he is presenting Buddhism in his story more as a cultural touchstone than as The Way, I would say that he feels the younger generation may be falling out of touch with a sense of peace that a religion like Buddhism could give, and many are searching for something to fill that space in their lives. I don’t believe he is necessarily promoting religion, even Buddhism, but other ideas, like finding your own way out of this modern sense of despondency and loneliness. He actually promotes messages of critical thinking above anything, which I might talk more about another time in another analysis (which is on my back burner because of word vomit like this) (Ugh he is also strongly promoting the idea of love and vulnerability, but I just don't have the space to write about it rn—u heard it here, Miwa is strong for caring). And Gege is promoting the idea to find your own way of living, and to question those who try to set you up with one without any input from you yourself (I also totally mean Gojo when I say this. Not only is he a victim but he's also a perpetuator of- but idk if we're ready for that conversation yet lol...).
Yeah, I sound like I’m contradicting myself: he needs more adults and wisdom vs he needs to own his own life- it’s both. This is the balancing act inherent to growing up...and being an adult. And the harsh, real ass truth is a lot of adults won’t always have your best interest at heart and they’re not thinking about you. At least, not without their own biased perspective. Gege demonstrates that explicitly, and in a way that could probably be called cynical. That part’s up for interpretation, though.
So. Critical Thinking… in the modern age of the internet… hope saying that doesn’t make people mad somehow 😬 from now on, CT doesn’t mean cursed technique anymore, that’s the new rule, every sorcerer’s got a critical thinking instead like Limitless Critical Thinking.
You: 😒
...But wait! There’s more!
You: 😒
Look, I’m almost done, gonna start talking about cults now.
And why do we need critical thinking? It’s pretty useless. Except, when it comes to doing most things. And also when it comes to avoiding cult-like thinking.
I don't know for sure if the TVA cult was supposed to be centered around Tengen’s fall and then Jujutsu society is solely centered around Gojo’s fall, or if this distinction truly matters. I think J society now focuses on Gojo primarily, but before and still after he was born, plenty of sorcerers revere Tengen as he is. J society was built around him. If Kenjaku is the mad scientist behind the scenes, Tengen is like the charismatic cult leader who you think is your charming uncle— he has inspired at least two cults! ...Don't believe me? I think one of the most dangerous parts of cult mentality nowadays, is that recent generations think only these guys are cultists
Didn’t Jared Leto start a cult? Sounds about right. Also Protip: don’t take shrooms in a field with people u just met and a boyfriend who doesn’t care about you. U might have a bad time. (It’s Midsommar)
And so they’re mostly easily avoidable or something. The fact that we’re talking about a bunch of weirdo sorcerers who fight invisible monsters isn’t helping my point- but they do blend in pretty well in tracksuits and hoodies. We like mostly all of them and empathize with them— many readers would say they’re attractive drawings of people. But Nanami was right, Jujutsu sorcerers are shit, and are as much of a death cult as the TVA:
Nanami made so many good points 💛 ch 30
So, have we the readers been sympathizing with a death cult this whole time?? What I’m arguing and what Gege is saying is- oh yeah we have.
What I had to learn too, through reading up on it, is that most people enter cults without knowing they have. People become vulnerable to cults without realizing they are. Young people are increasingly vulnerable to cults and cult-like thinking. Both as the followers, and as objects to be worshipped.
And if you still think I’m talking out of my ass, through some googling about cults I was doing in the final stages of writing this, I found that in 1995, a Japanese cult called the Aum Shinrikyo (today known as Aleph— yeah, seems like it’s still around; a second split off group is Hikari no Wa (total: 2 cults)) conducted an act of domestic terrorism in Tokyo, releasing a chemical weapon attack with a nerve agent on the subway during rush hour. They killed 14 people, and injured 5,500 more, and about 1,000 others had temporary vision problems that day; this was also the cult’s second nerve agent attack in a year, with the previous one killing 8 people and injuring 500. Many survivors were disabled by these attacks. In prior years, cult members had committed various murders, as per their doctrine. The founder and leader of the cult at the time, Shoko Asahara, believed he was “Christ” and “the Lamb of God” and preached that the end of the world was imminent, as well as a WWIII; he used elements from Buddhism and other religions in his doctrine, too. He was executed in 2018, but the group is still labeled as a terrorist organization by several countries, and seems to be only labeled as a “dangerous religious group” by Japan. ...Take that part as you will.
(Also, the second attack was conducted on March 20, which for some reason is also Itadori's birthday. tbh idk what that means)
So...sounds a little familiar to JJK fans. I do maintain that everyone who died at Shibuya, the number of which is in the thousands, died because Kenjaku killed them— and yet, so many fans say it’s Gojo’s fault for not saving them. So, what’s the truth? “A small, secret group of people with psychic powers, which occasionally spawns rogue individuals who massacre the general population” isn’t an innocent sounding tagline. Because it never was.
Here’s some quotes from an interesting article by a former cult member, who grew up in a cult:
“Few people consciously join a cult. Cults are beautifully packaged to look like something quite different from the outside. By the time people figure out what they’ve actually bought into, their whole life is committed to serving the cult community. [...]”
“The brainwashing was subtle, and the signs of dysfunction were mostly beneath the surface. There were no sacrificial goats, wild sex romps or witches hats in the forest. We didn’t wear tie-dyed clothing, live on a hippy commune or chant songs in the street. And that’s the point really. Some of the most insidious cults and cultures can appear normal from the outside. [...]”
“Through this life lens, I spot cultish behavior in many areas of everyday life — the corporate world as a prime example. More recently, I see it reflected within startup culture, where people are often enrolled in organizations that barely pay their way under the promise of future opportunity which typically only arrives for the founders and early-stage investors. [...]”
(Bolded emphasis is mine)
Not everything is a cult. But many abusive systems - and people - share noticeable similarities and traits. Being aware of abuse and how to protect yourself from it, is a vital life skill. It’s important to start learning early on, or whenever you can.
...But Gege clearly made Jujutsu society basically a cult, I’m just gonna stick with it for now.
Many religions (and cults) provide a kind of “complete package” of morality for you up front. And many of them take issue with the concept of humanity whenever they try to define it. Almost everyone, religious or not, has some dissatisfaction with what it means to be human.
Junpei attempted to rationalize his pain/bullying by dehumanizing others back. He is trying to understand why others dehumanized him first and hurt him so badly. Everyone goes through this process in some way or another. ch 26
For almost everyone reading 🤖, to be alive means to be human. It is intrinsic to our deaths. I definitely believe this is why people often try to become more than human, or "more human" than others, to make themselves feel ‘better’ and avoid the thought of how near death is to our flesh at every moment. A lil competition never hurt anyone, right? /s
How we treat each other, putting others above or below us, is always an attempt to understand or define ourselves as humans, like Junpei was doing. Like Geto was doing to non-sorcerers. Like the Zenins did to Toji and Maki. Like Kugisaki’s village did to Saori. Like the higher ups have done to other sorcerers. Like everyone has done to Gojo, because they believe power is more important than anything else.
JJK is asking us what it means to be human by showing us what these characters are living and dying for. While they’re locked inside a system as harsh as Jujutsu society. And beyond that, Japanese society, which Nanami says basically sucks slightly more. Are you willing to die for the ideals and rules given to you by your society? Because if you’re not aware of them, one day you definitely will have, by the time your time comes. And of course, a lot of people do not have great choices because of their circumstances— but we can all do something. There is always some kind of choice or series of choices to try to get toward your preferred way of living. It is a worthy cause, if it is toward the life you want to live.
We’re but quick, bright sparks in a deep dark cosmos that will one day end itself: In what way will you choose to live while you’re here? Who will you have compassion and love for? And why? These are the questions at the heart of JJK. Because as humans, we have those choices. The story is asking us to ask ourselves these questions before it's too late. Death is our mirror, and we can use it wisely.
I think the Idol thing may seem like a little out of left field, but not only is it supremely metaphorical, it’s a great example of a movement that’s gripping Japan (and hello Hololive), and exemplifies the fact that obsessively spending all your time and money on an Idol means you are devoting your life to them— but really to a persona who can’t love you back. If that’s exactly what you want- fine, good. As long as you’ve thought it through. If not, time to reevaluate and choose another way.
Overall, despite it not being the idol manga that Gege wanted to make originally, I think we are still seeing a story near and dear to his heart. Ultimately, it's about how we'll only be satisfied when we find our own ways to live, and to live altogether; because when we die, no one is certain what will happen next. As far as we know— this is it. A proper death will look a little different for everyone, because it can only be determined by a life you find worth living.
I think this is a powerful and universal message, and I’m really glad it’s what Gege is choosing to say.
Conclusion
Guys...we made it. To the end 🥴
The more I thought about the series themes and how Gege wanted to make an idol manga, the more I started to think it was a hilarious outcome, because he is heavily criticizing, you know, “the system” and the shonen protag tropes, certain things in otaku culture and even violence/fighting and so basically being like, “You want a battle shonen? Really? You want a bAtTlE sHoNeN?? Well, here. Here ya go. 😈” Lmao I haven’t read/seen a ton of shonen to make a totally fair estimate tbh, but it seems very much like his brand of irony.
Plus, he’s putting in a lot of very meaningful - and political - messages, and touching on pretty deep subject matter in a subtle way that’s honestly really impressive.
I joked at the beginning that I didn’t research this that much, but I ended up just trying to question any of my assumptions with research and made sure to link sources where appropriate, but only because my ideas were there first. Idk I’m saying I’m not a professional, don’t be fooled by the links, always critically think, beloveds.
Anyway, thanks for reading! Would you believe me if I told you I swore up and down this was going to be a short wittle dwabble essay based on a random comment I made and I would get right back to another JJK essay I haven’t finished…? Lmaoo no when will I be free from word vomit seriously where’s the cure
Let me know what you think hehe 💛