In Dragon Ball Super, Goku reaches divine-level power through forms like Ultra Instinct, leading many to wonder: why hasn’t he become a God of Destruction? Despite training with Whis and interacting with Beerus—the God of Destruction of Universe 7—Goku has never shown interest in taking on this role. So what holds him back? Let’s explore Goku’s personality and why he is fundamentally incompatible with the position of a God of Destruction.
What Is a God of Destruction?
A God of Destruction is a divine being assigned to maintain balance across one of the twelve universes in Dragon Ball by destroying planets, civilizations, or entities that threaten stability. Each god wields the power of Hakai—the ability to erase anything instantly. Beings like Beerus (Universe 7) and Champa (Universe 6) exhibit immense power and are known for being decisive, ruthless, and, at times, emotionless—traits that directly contrast Goku’s nature.
Goku’s Personality – Why He’s Not Fit for the Role
He Loves to Fight, Not to Destroy
- Fighting Spirit: Goku lives to battle strong opponents—not to annihilate them. He seeks growth through combat rather than domination.
- Mercy Over Power: Goku has spared enemies like Frieza and Piccolo, offering redemption rather than punishment—something Beerus would never consider.
- Preserver, Not Destroyer: Goku protects Earth, a planet not even native to him, while Gods of Destruction can obliterate worlds over minor reasons (like bad food).
Compassionate and Innocent Nature
- Forgiveness: Goku forgave Vegeta, allied with Frieza, and even tried to reach out to Jiren during the Tournament of Power.
- Aversion to Authority: He refused the role of Earth’s guardian (Kami) in Dragon Ball Z, showing disinterest in power or leadership.
He Values Freedom
- Rebellious Spirit: Goku frequently ignores Beerus and Whis’s instructions, acting on instinct or curiosity—like suggesting the Tournament of Power to Zeno, risking multiple universes.
- Dislikes Responsibility: A God of Destruction must follow cosmic rules and act under Zeno’s supervision. Goku prefers freedom and independence in his actions.
Goku’s Power: A Different Path
Ultra Instinct vs. Hakai
- Ultra Instinct: A technique used by Angels, relying on reflex and serenity—perfectly matching Goku’s nature as a pure-hearted fighter.
- Hakai: Demands destruction as a core instinct—something Goku lacks and doesn’t desire to cultivate.
Beerus’ Observation:
Beerus once noted that Goku doesn’t need to become a God of Destruction because he’s forging his own path—one potentially even stronger.
Comparison: Goku vs. Vegeta
- Vegeta: Trained under Beerus, attained Ultra Ego, and embraced the philosophy of destruction more readily.
- Goku: Has never tried to learn Hakai and shows no inclination toward the role of a destroyer god.
Why Goku Will Never Become a God of Destruction
Lack of Motivation
- No Desire for Power: Beerus, despite his laziness, maintains balance. Goku simply wants to fight strong opponents, not manage universal order.
- Contrast with Toppo: Toppo abandoned pride to embrace destruction in Universe 11. Goku would never sacrifice his values in that way.
He Already Plays a Greater Role
- Universe Savior: Goku has saved Universe 7 countless times—defeating Frieza, Cell, Majin Buu, and Jiren—without needing a god title.
- Inspiration to Others: Goku motivates warriors like Vegeta, Gohan, and even foes to grow—something a destroyer god rarely does.
Not in Zeno or Whis’ Plans
Gods like Zeno and Grand Priest likely have their own criteria for choosing Gods of Destruction. Whis himself prefers training Goku rather than grooming him for the role—hinting Goku is meant to be something else entirely.
Conclusion
Goku doesn’t become a God of Destruction not because he lacks power, but because his kind-hearted, free-spirited, battle-loving nature doesn’t align with the role’s cold duties and responsibilities. With Ultra Instinct, he has chosen his own divine path—one based on self-mastery and instinct rather than control and annihilation. Will he ever change and embrace that role? Given Goku’s essence, the answer is likely no. Keep watching Dragon Ball Super to see where his journey leads next!