Why did the Evil Eye posses Jiji in Dandadan? Explained

Dandadan features a gripping narrative where Jin "Jiji" Enjoji becomes possessed by the evil spirit known as the Evil Eye (Jashi). The involuntary possession of Jin "Jiji" Enjoji by the Evil Eye originated from a complicated blend of tragic events and spiritual forces.

The Evil Eye possesses Jiji because it seeks a powerful vessel to enact its revenge against humanity, drawn to Jiji's exceptional spiritual energy and physical capabilities.

The Evil Eye became a vengeful spirit after its original form as a child's soul endured separation from the world and eventual death through ritual sacrifice to the Tsuchinoko. Its possession of Jiji represents the culmination of centuries of rage and the beginning of its plan to inflict suffering on the world that caused its pain.

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Why the Evil Eye targeted Jiji, explained

The Evil Eye's possession of Jiji can be traced back to several critical factors. First, Jiji unknowingly moved into the house built over the sacrificial grounds where the Evil Eye's human form was killed centuries ago. This location connection established the initial link between the spirit and Jiji.

Jiji's exceptional spiritual energy, combined with his athletic prowess, makes him a perfect host for a vengeful spirit wanting to unleash maximum destruction. When the Tsuchinoko's psychic waves began affecting Jiji's family, the Evil Eye actually protected Jiji initially.

However, this wasn't from kindness but calculation— the Evil Eye recognized Jiji's potential as a vessel and wanted to preserve him for possession. The spirit monitored Jiji to find the perfect time to use his capabilities for its deadly mission. This possession stands out in Dandadan because it combines supernatural themes with the story's examination of trauma and recovery processes.

The Evil Eye embodies far more than evil power because it represents the corrupted essence of a child whose pain turned it into a monstrous entity. Its targeting of Jiji represents its desperate attempt to reclaim agency after having its life and death controlled by others.

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Jiji and the Evil Eye's relationship in Dandadan

Why did the Evil Eye possess Jiji beyond just seeking a powerful vessel? The series develops the dynamic between Jiji and the Evil Eye into a multifaceted relationship beyond basic possession. The Evil Eye's memories allow Jiji to empathize with the spirit by revealing the origins of its violent hatred.

He understands that the child who never knew friendship or playtime is the source of the murderous intent within the spirit. This understanding creates a unique dynamic where Jiji doesn't simply fight against the possession but works toward an unusual accommodation.

With help from Momo, Okarun, and their supernatural allies, Jiji discovers that hot water temporarily suppresses the Evil Eye's control, allowing him to regain his body. This creates the peculiar condition where cold liquids trigger the possession— a mechanic reminiscent of other supernatural manga transformations.

The relationship culminates in an unusual arrangement where Okarun agrees to "entertain" the Evil Eye's bloodlust in weekly controlled battles, provided it allows Jiji control of his body otherwise. This compromise acknowledges both the Evil Eye's need for violence and Jiji's right to autonomy, creating one of Dandadan's most fascinating supernatural partnerships.

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Conclusion

Evil Eye as seen in the anime (Image via Science Saru)

Why the Evil Eye possessed Jiji ultimately transcends a straightforward narrative of vengeance. In Dandadan's richly layered supernatural ecosystem, this possession reflects a deeper exploration of trauma, power, and the search for healing. The Evil Eye, a being forged from centuries of rage and suffering, sees in Jiji not just a conduit for destruction, but a potential partner in its emotional reckoning.

Jiji’s own unresolved pain and vulnerability create a unique resonance between the two, allowing the Evil Eye to begin channeling its turmoil through understanding rather than chaos. Their fusion becomes a metaphor for mutual healing through shared emotional honesty.

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