deconstructing geto suguru’s clothing and the symbolism behind it
Geto’s clothing closely resembles the ceremonial robes of buddhist monks during the Heian period. This Heian era is also known as the golden age of jujutsu sorcerers and when Ryomen Sukuna was recognized as the king of curses.
Coincidentally, the rise of esoteric buddhism in Japan also occured during the Heian period. Jujutsu Kaisen is deeply connected to buddhism, the most notable example is that quotation of Buddha by Gojo.
“In the Heavens above and on the Earth below, I alone am the honored one.”
Now let’s deconstruct Geto’s clothing.
i. the first layer: undergarments:
The undergarment (usually white) helps to add an elegant look, as the collar can be seen beneath the outermost layer. It is constructed of the tabi (socks), the momohiki (long pants) and the hada-juban (undershirt)
ii. the foundation garment: a folded towel is added to the waist area (for women it’s added to the breast area), the foundation garment helps to add some shape to the clothing
iii. the second layer: nagagi or the kimono foundation
iv. the third layer: the hakama ( either full-cut trousers or seperated skirt ) and the haori (hip or thigh length jacket)
We have arrived to the most interesting part of Geto’s outfit, which is the outermost layer.
The vest-like garment Geto wears is called the 五条袈裟 or the gojogesa. The term gesa in China and Japan refers to the outermost layer itself. In the the later periods of Japan where fine fabrics were available these robes were made using strips of said fabrics. The distinction between these robes was by the number of strips, hence gojogesa = 5 strips of fabric.
Now, Geto’s is goal to eradicate all non-sorcerers. This would also bring a so-called second golden age age of Jujutsu, so it makes sense that he would return to the clothing of the Heian period.
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