Gojo Satoru’s picture in Jujutsu Kaisen is truly unique, captivating fans to the extent that many believe that he is the cornerstone of the series – so much so that without him, there is no Jujutsu Kaisen. From his first appearance, Gojo was elevated to a status that no other magician could match, his abilities so profound that they set him apart on a level all his own. With each appearance in Akutami Gege’s manga, Gojo continued to amaze with his seemingly impossible feats, adding layers to the legend of his strength.
Given this, the fandom was stunned when Gojo, the strongest magician of the modern era, was killed by Sukuna, also sparking concern among the fandom in the process, about the fate of the remaining magicians in their battle against the King of Curses without Gojo to guide them. However, some fans are still hopeful about his return even after the grim reality, recalling how Gojo once returned from the brink of death during his fight against Toji Zenin in the Hidden Inventory Arc.
Gojo’s parting letter suggests even he knew he didn’t stand a chance against Sukuna
Gojo left letters to his students because he would not make it out of the battle alive
However, that hope was crushed when Yuta entered the battle inhabiting Gojo’s body, confirming that the strongest magician was indeed gone. This pivotal moment forced even Gojo’s die-hard fans to accept the truth about his death. While fans were just coming to terms with his death at this point, Jujutsu Kaisen Chapter #268 reveals that Gojo himself was aware of his impending death in his battle against Sukuna, despite his confident claim of victory.
Jujutsu Kaisen Chapter #268 finally saw the intense battle against the King of Curses come to a close, offering a moment of resolution. Notably, the narrative shifts focus to the emotional reunion of the series’ core trio – Yuji, Megumi and Nobara. The chapter notably portrays Yuji, who delivered Megumi and Nobara letters from their teacher, Gojo, containing vital information that they otherwise would not have received from him directly. The subtle but powerful gesture implies that the letters could serve as Gojo’s parting words to his cherished students, emphasizing his uncertainty about the outcome of his battle against Sukuna. Despite his bold claims of victory, Gojo clearly harbored doubts, leaving behind his final thoughts in case of his defeat.
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In addition, this chapter has another subtle hidden detail that also indicates Gojo’s uncertainty about his victory against the King of Curses. While Megumi and Nobara receive letters filled with their teacher’s final words of wisdom, distorted as they may have been, Yuji reveals that he did not receive a letter from Gojo but instead a personal conversation with him. As Yuji recalls the moment, a sad expression crosses his face, suggesting that Gojo’s final message to him carries a deeper, more somber weight.
Although Gojo’s exact words to Yuji remain unrevealed, it is implied that he confided in Yuji not only his latest teachings, but also the grim fact that he went into battle expecting to die. This subtle detail adds gravity to Gojo’s decision, and a question to ponder why he chose to enter the battlefield with his bold claims even though he knew it would lead to his death. Understanding Gojo’s motives behind this moment becomes even more crucial, as it hints at a deeper layer of his character, one that embraces both the burden of his role and the inevitability of sacrifice.
Why did Gojo lie about being able to beat Sukuna?
Gojo’s false claim of victory was key to Sukuna’s defeat
Despite knowing he would die, Gojo had to claim victory over the King of Curses for strategic reasons. He needed to ignite hope among his allies, show that even the strongest sorcerer in history can be questioned, instill fear in the enemy. This bold claim eventually saw Sukuna be cautious in his fight against Gojo. Despite being an honored warrior, Gojo’s courage pushed Sukuna to use tactics not normally expected of him, such as calling out not only Mahoraga but another shikigami named Agito, making Gojo participate in a 3 vs 1 battle.
Although Gojo’s reasons for lying about defeating Sukuna seem simple, there may be a deeper motive. His lie may have served to inflate Sukuna’s confidence, leading the King of Curses to believe that after defeating the strongest mage of the modern era, no one else could pose a threat, therefore letting his guard down against any other mage who came after him. As a result, the very magician Sukuna underestimated – Yuji, who he believed had no chance – became the key to his downfall. Thus, Gojo’s claim of victory was essential in setting the stage for Sukuna’s eventual defeat in Jujutsu Kaisen.