Yuji's Domain Expansion Hand sign in Jujutsu Kaisen and why it fits him perfectly, explained

Modified Aug 01, 2024 13:42 GMT

Yuji as seen in the Jujutsu Kaisen anime (Image via MAPPA)

Jujutsu Kaisen chapter 264, titled Inhuman Makyo Shinjuku Showdown, Part 36, is set to be published on Monday, July 29, 2024, at 12:00 am JST. In the meantime, spoilers and raw scans for the issue have already been released. Yuji Itadori has left fans in awe by demonstrating his ability to use Domain Expansion in his current battle against the King of Curses, Sukuna.

Domain Expansion is a powerful barrier technique in the series, requiring each user to perform a unique hand sign that often reflects aspects of their personality. For instance, Satoru Gojo's hand seal for his Domain Expansion, Infinite Void, represents Taishakuten-in, or Indra. Similarly, the hand sign Yuji has recently displayed carries its significance, adding depth to his character and also hinting at the future.

Disclaimer: This article contains major spoilers.

Yuji's Domain Expansion hand sign in Jujutsu Kaisen chapter 264 hints at the future

Sukuna as seen in the Jujutsu Kaisen anime (Image via MAPPA)

In Jujutsu Kaisen chapter 264, the spoilers and raw scans reveal that Yuji Itadori will finally show his Domain Expansion. He will transport Sukuna to what appears to be a train station and their battle will continue there. However, the most intriguing aspect for fans is the hand sign that Yuji uses, which they have eagerly analyzed for its symbolic meaning and shared their findings on social media platforms.

There is much speculation, but it seems certain that this hand sign is an invocation of Ksitigarbha, a revered bodhisattva in East Asian Buddhism. Ksitigarbha is also known as Jizo Bodhisattva in Japan. His name can be translated as Earth Womb, Earth Matrix, and Earth Store. These translations evoke the image of a vessel, which seems relevant to Yuji's role as Sukuna's vessel.

It is noteworthy that Sukuna’s Domain Expansion hand sign closely resembles Yuji’s. But while Sukuna's hand sign represents Yama, the King of Hell, Yuji’s invocation of Ksitigarbha provides a contrasting image. Ksitigarbha is known for his vow to not become a Buddha until all hells are emptied, positioning him as a guardian deity.

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The hand sign also connects with the fate of those who met their ends near Yuji and Sukuna. Fans have been quick to point out that these individuals received a proper send-off, having the opportunity to meet their loved ones in a separate realm. This resonates with Ksitigarbha’s role as a guide for lost souls.

Also read: Jujutsu Kaisen chapter 265 spoilers

This aspect of Yuji's character also highlights his dedication to his grandfather. He had ensured his grandfather was not alone in his final moments, and he may be extending the same compassion to others. However, this interpretation is largely speculative.

In conclusion, it seems fitting that Yuji is embracing his true role as a guardian of souls, akin to Ksitigarbha. This suggests that Yuji may also have the potential to purify the hellish King of Curses.

For fans, this hand sign might also signify the underlying logic that foreshadows Yuji’s victory over Sukuna in Jujutsu Kaisen. Then, the choice of this hand sign is not arbitrary on Gege Akutami’s part, but rather a reflection of Yuji's character development and future trajectory.