Sukuna in Japanese: Decode the Unexpected Meaning Behind His Full Name

Hi, Junko from Japan here! If you’ve ever wondered about the meaning of “Ryomen Sukuna,” especially in the context of Jujutsu Kaisen, you’re not alone.

The name “Ryomen Sukuna” is a term rooted in Japanese folklore, referring to a legendary demon with two faces and four arms. In this article, we’ll delve into the intricate layers of this name, its historical significance, and how it’s been portrayed in different contexts.

What Is Sukuna’s Full Name?

Contrary to popular belief, “Ryomen Sukuna” isn’t a first and last name. Rather, it’s a singular term deeply rooted in Japanese folklore, specifically referring to a legendary demon.

The Meaning of Ryomen Sukuna in Japanese Kanji Symbols

The Profound Significance of “Ryomen” in Japanese Culture

RYO = both, twin
MEN = side, face, mask

The term “Ryomen” translates to “two faces” or “dual aspects.” In the legends, Ryomen Sukuna was said to possess two faces—one facing forward and the other facing backward.

If you’ve ever wondered about the Ryomen meaning in Japanese culture, this duality is key.

Decoding the Ancient Term SUKUNA

SUKU = inn, reside, previous life, time-honored, experienced
NA = a ritual for exorcising demons

In archaic Japanese, “Sukuna” signifies “one who eradicates evil.” The second Kanji symbol “NA” was initially a character symbolizing a ritual to banish demons. So, when it comes to Sukuna’s name meaning, it’s deeply symbolic.

During Japan’s Heian era, it was widely believed that malevolent spirits and curses were the work of evil demons. Officers of the government had a tradition of warding off four-eyed demons, which likely influenced the portrayal of Sukuna in Jujutsu Kaisen, who also has four eyes.

When you amalgamate the meanings of the Kanji characters, “Ryomen Sukuna” translates to “a dual-faced entity who vanquishes malevolent demons.”

Although the name should imply that he’s a friend to humans, ancient Japanese historical records depict him more akin to a monster or a demon. The reason for this paradoxical portrayal will be elucidated later.

Who Was the Historical Figure Ryomen Sukuna?

In Japanese historical annals, Ryomen Sukuna is portrayed as a demon or a nefarious bandit who defied the Emperor and was subsequently vanquished.

He is described as a monstrous entity with two faces, four arms, and four legs, wielding both a sword and a bow in battle.

While he’s depicted as an evil demon in historical accounts, in the Hida region—believed to be Sukuna’s place of origin—he’s venerated as a hero who vanquished evil entities and safeguarded the populace.

Even today, multiple temples in the Hida region enshrine Ryomen Sukuna as their protective god.

The Underlying Reason for His Demonized Portrayal

The prevailing theory for Sukuna’s demonized portrayal in historical texts is that he opposed the ruling authorities, leading to an exaggerated depiction of him as an evil being.

Various theories exist, including the notion that he led a rebellion in the Hida region or that he was a conjoined twin, but the truth remains elusive.

Entities with multiple faces and limbs are not uncommon in Buddhist lore. For instance, Ashura, the god of war, has two faces and six arms, bearing numerous similarities to the depiction of Ryomen Sukuna in Japanese legends.

The Dual Nature of Sukuna: From Folklore to Internet Urban Legends

Interestingly, the Sukuna of Japanese folklore isn’t a simple villain; he’s often seen as a force of justice that saved people. This contrasts with how Sukuna is portrayed in Jujutsu Kaisen, where he is essentially a complete villain, opposing the meaning behind his name.

Another reason why the name Sukuna was chosen for the villain could be the existence of a Japanese internet urban legend. A few years ago, a story spread online about a mummified monster called Ryomen Sukuna, which was said to bring about strange phenomena.

In this urban legend, a sealed mummy is accidentally released into the world, causing a series of catastrophic events like earthquakes and mysterious deaths. The mummy is depicted as a completely cursed entity, sharing many similarities with the Sukuna in Jujutsu Kaisen.

Check out my other article for more insights into the historical Ryomen Sukuna and the Japanese internet urban legend that popularized the name Sukuna!

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