'Jujutsu Kaisen' Season 3 Episode 9 Explained: Why Did Higuruma Spare Yuji?

The ninth episode of the third season of Jujutsu Kaisen finally delivered what viewers had been waiting several episodes for: action and emotional revelations.

Finally, Hiromi Higuruma, a lawyer with a heightened sense of justice and a terrifying cursed technique, emerged from the bathtub and showed his true colors.

Here's why Higuruma became a fan favorite, how his technique works, and why he let go of the main character.

Hiromi Higuruma Is Becoming One of the Most Charismatic Characters in 'Jujutsu Kaisen'

Although he has only recently appeared in the title, Higuruma has already won a legion of fans. He has it all: charisma with a hint of madness, a compelling backstory, impressive techniques, and a terrifying shikigami at his command.

In Episode 9, he finally showcases his combat skills, and the scene rivals Episode 4, when Maki decimated the Zenin clan. His ceremonial hammer transforms into a massive warhammer that he deftly wields, making Itadori sweat.

Higuruma isn't just a powerful sorcerer, he's a genius who mastered his technique within days of awakening. He adapts quickly, anticipates his opponents' moves, and knows how to surprise them with unexpected ones.

How Does Higuruma's Technique Work?

Higuruma's Domain Expansion transports him and his opponent to the courtroom and unlike other similar techniques, this one is not lethal. Higuruma acts as the prosecutor and his opponent acts as the defendant. A shikigami named Judgeman delivers the verdict.

Before the trial begins, Higuruma explains the rules. The defendant may remain silent, admit guilt, or deny it. Lying is acceptable but could work against them. Afterwards, Higuruma opens the envelope containing the evidence, and Judgeman delivers the verdict.

The punishment can range from the removal of cursed energy to a death sentence. However, Higuruma has the right to decide if the verdict is fair.

This reflects his inner conflict: he is disillusioned with a judicial system that gives defendants no chance at a fair verdict – through his technique, he seeks to restore justice.

Why Did Higuruma Spare Yuji?

During the trial, Higuruma expected Itadori to make excuses, lie, or shift the blame, as most people would. However, Yuji pleaded guilty to the Shibuya massacre, even though Sukuna had actually seized control of his body and committed the crime.

Itadori reproached himself for the weakness that allowed the demon to take over and sincerely regretted what he hadn't done. This unsettled Higuruma – over the years, he had become accustomed to lies, cynicism, and attempts to defend oneself at any cost as a lawyer.

Here, a person accepted guilt for something he didn't do. This forced Higuruma to rethink his judgment. He realized that justice doesn't always follow a formula, so he overturned the death sentence.