This unexplored aspect of Jujutsu Kaisen's Cursed Spirits is one of the most intriguing

Jujutsu Kaisen introduced several intriguing concepts throughout its 271-chapter life. Additionally, there were also aspects of the manga that remained unexplored, leaving fans to formulate theories and explanations of their own to fill them out. One such untouched aspect, which is also quite interesting when looked at closely, is the Cursed Spirits and their names.

The series introduced Cursed Spirits in Jogo, Hanami, Mahito, Dagon, and a couple of others. However, one aspect that it did not dive into was how they got their names. Usually, Curses were born out of Cursed Energy leaking from humans over time due to their negative emotions. However, it was never explored how they came to be called what they were, as in the cases of the mentioned Curses.

Disclaimer: This article is a speculative theory and reflects the writer's opinion.

Jujutsu Kaisen: An unexplored aspect of Curses stands as one of its most fascinating

Jogo in Jujutsu Kaisen (Image via MAPPA)

As mentioned previously in the article, Jujutsu Kaisen did not explicitly dive into how Cursed Spirits got their names. During the series, it was seemingly assumed that they took form, knowing their name, mostly stemming from something specific. For instance, the Smallpox Deity was born of humanity's negative feelings towards the smallpox disease.

But this doesn't answer the question when it comes to the more intelligent Curses like Jogo, Hanami, and Mahito. The manga mentions that Kenjaku (in Geto's body) met Mahito through Jogo. Jogo mostly spoke of Curses as the "true humans." So,, in theory, if Mahito had interacted with Jogo first, then he might have gotten his name from this belief.

Curses having names take on an intriguing viewpoint on how others perceive them. For instance, the evolved Dagon, who could speak, found it offensive when he was called a Cursed Spirit. He believed that Curses had names and had to be addressed by their names. However, when Hanami claims that Curses are true humans, they are sharply shut down by Kenjaku, calling them "Cursed Spirit."

Mahito in Jujutsu Kaisen (Image via MAPPA)

Among the Disaster Curses, Mahito is the only one known to have a nickname, i.e., Patchface. Initially, it was a little puzzling, but then Yuji used it to describe Mahito, as he did not know the Curse's name. From then on, it simply stuck till Yuji learned of it. But even so, if dug deeper, it looks like Curses do, in fact, embody what they are called or named.

To begin with, Jogo, when written in Japanese, can be read as "leakage." This would refer to his temper spilling out, often characterized by the volcano on his head and lava flowing out. Next, Hanami's name translates to "flower viewing" and "honorable". This would imply her goal, what she desires happen when humanity is wiped, i.e., the plants and flowers on earth blossom.

As for Mahito, his name can be read as "true" and "person/human". His case would be a little more specific and dark - reference is being made to his belief that Curses are "true humans." It could also be playing on his being from humanity's inner darkness and their dislike for each other. Lastly, Kurourushi reads as "black," "bathe," and "death," referring to his swarm of destructive insects.

Final thoughts

Hanami in Jujutsu Kaisen (Image via MAPPA)

In truth, Jujutsu Kaisen's choice to leave a few plot holes definitely retains intrigue much after the series' conclusion. Gege Akutami has ensured that fans always return for more by leaving some unexplored and open to interpretation. In the case explored above, Curses and how they got their respective names is one of them,, which is surprisingly interesting.

At the time, it wasn't questioned as much. Again, being named according to what they were born of is also plausible. But things were rarely black and white with Akutami when the manga was in progress, and that likely hasn't changed. So, aside from this explanation, there could be something that may or may not be revealed through footnotes about the manga or left entirely up to fans' imagination.

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About the author

Casey has been an anime writer at Sportskeeda since almost a year. Being drawn into the world of animanga after watching the Dragon Ball series almost a decade ago, Casey's interest in the genre, along with his love of crafting plot theories influenced his writerly endeavors. Presently pursuing a Master's degree in International Business, Casey worked for Uneake and FootballExpress for 1.3 years before joining Sportskeeda.

Casey's writings reflect his commitment to producing the most reliable content, evidenced by his flair for in-depth reporting. He places a high value on meticulous research and complete factual accuracy.

Although it was legendary Akira Toriyama’s magnum opus that influenced his love of animanga, Casey soon branched out and explored other titles. The unique ways in which mangakas express ideas, as well as their far-reaching effects, have inspired Casey in his creative pursuits.

When not busy writing, Casey enjoys working out, listening to music, strumming the guitar, and playing football.

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Edited by Casey Mendez