Hi, Junko from Japan here! The word MUZAN means “cruel” or “pathetic” in Japanese. Also, it represents someone who violates the Buddhism precepts and never reflects the sin in Buddhism teaching.
I think every meaning deserves KIBUTSUJI MUZAN in Demon Slayer. In this post, I’ll explain what each Kanji symbol in MUZAN stands for to enjoy the Demon Slayer world more. Let’s start!
What Does MUZAN Mean in Japanese Kanji Letters?
Here’s the Kanji writing for the name MUZAN.
MU = nothing, void
ZAN = miserable, tragic, cruel, heartless
The second symbol ZAN originally meant “the heart that feels ashamed of something” in Buddhism. MU is “nothing,” and the word MUZAN makes “no heart of being ashamed.” It was a Buddhism word for “someone breaks the rules without hesitation and a sense of guilt.” I think it’s a kind of psychopath!
Later, the word MUZAN came into general usage meaning “cruel deed.” We have another word ZANKOKU which also stands for “cruelty,” but I feel ZANKOKU points out one’s characteristics while MUZAN emphasizes how cruel and horrible one’s action is.
Is KIBUTSUJI MUZAN His Real Name?
I think it’s not since the Japanese Kanji characters for Kibutsuji Muzan are too ominous for one’s name. He was born into an aristocratic family, and it’s hard to think a nobleman was given such an evil name.
It’s Muzan who named all the Twelve Demon Moons. So there’s a possibility that he gave himself a new name when he turned into a demon.
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