I think enlightenment is the key to strength in Jujutsu Kaisen, and it's Buddhist inspiration hints at it

Jujutsu Kaisen has referenced Buddhism a number of times through its story, positioning it as a key source of inspiration. Perhaps the most prominent instance is Gojo Satoru's Enlightenment, which occurs during Gojo's Past Arc, when the white-haired sorcerer defies death and returns to go toe-to-toe with Toji Fushiguro.

As is well known, the "Sorcerer Killer" was no match for a renewed Gojo, who unleashed his first-ever Hollow Purple. Toji's left side was blown away, leading to a near-instant death at the hands of the Honored One. Looking back now, it's possible that enlightenment is the true source of strength in Jujutsu Kaisen, especially as hinted by the Buddhist references.

Disclaimer: This article reflects the writer's opinion.

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Jujutsu Kaisen: Inspiration from Buddhism hints that enlightenment is crucial to strength

Gojo Satoru (Image via MAPPA)

To begin with, enlightenment refers to a state in which one has no more earthly attachments and frees themselves from the cycle of death and rebirth. In Jujutsu Kaisen, Gojo seemed to achieve this state when he was brought to a near-death state by Toji. On the verge of bleeding out, he understood how to use the Reverse Cursed Technique to heal himself and also unlocked Hollow Purple.

Gojo aside, there seem to be others who may have achieved enlightenment as well. Ryomen Sukuna, though he never had any such explicit moment, announces that he was free of suffering and earthly attachments—a possible hint that he achieved this state long ago. Maki Zenin also looked like she reached enlightenment when Mai perished, unlocking the full extent of her Heavenly Restriction.

Even the Disaster Curse Jogo comes to mind, but this likely happened after he was defeated by Sukuna. The King of Curses acknowledged and praised his strength before advising him to burn everything to the ground. This could be a symbolic reference to him letting go of his earthly attachments and achieving true enlightenment.

Gojo Satoru (Image via MAPPA)

While the evidence of enlightenment in Jujutsu Kaisen is compelling, a case can also be made against it. Most of the characters are focused on themselves, often displaying unvirtuous behavior and being driven by desires and attachments. Even the best of them are pushed to make decisions that might trivialize the goal of being enlightened.

Regarding Gojo's enlightenment in Jujutsu Kaisen, it could alternatively be seen as him reaching his peak. In other words, the near-death experience was able to unleash the full extent of his abilities, granting him access to his full potential, similar to Maki's case. That being said, he looked happy as he was riding the high of being at the peak of his powers, a summit where he saw himself alone.

In the end, Gojo was a remarkable individual burdened with the weight of the Jujutsu Society, doing his best to fulfill his role in the most virtuous manner. Rather than Gojo, Yuji was the closest to enlightenment in any sense. Despite the darkness he experienced, he wasn't affected by it and continued to power through (aided by his allies), even offering compassion to Sukuna.

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Final thoughts

Gojo Satoru (Image via MAPPA)

Jujutsu Kaisen's references to Buddhism point to a more profound meaning in its characters’ journeys. This is especially the case when considering the idea of Enlightenment. Gojo’s sudden rise in power when he nearly perished at Toji's hands mirrors a moment of deep awakening, i.e., one where clarity, pain, and resurrection collide.

However, this does not definitely imply that his spirit is now pure. Like many other characters, Gojo was, in a way, tethered to worldly responsibilities, desires, and ego. This would suggest his moment of enlightenment was more of a power upsurge than a spiritual one. Detachment can be seen through the likes of Sukuna and Maki. However, their motivations are rooted in grief, rage, or pride.

Only Yuji can be considered the closest to enlightenment. He retains his humanity despite the darkness he encounters. Jujutsu Kaisen presents enlightenment as clarity through suffering, not perfection, something each one achieves differently.

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