As Siddhartha continues his search for enlightenment, his path diverges sharply from that of the vengeful Devadatta, setting the stage for their inevitable future conflict. Siddhartha navigates the complex social and spiritual landscape of ancient India, encountering figures who challenge his understanding of suffering and purity. The narrative, presented through Tezuka’s signature cinematic paneling, contrasts Siddhartha’s internal growth with the external hardening of Devadatta, an orphan whose choices lead him toward malice. This volume documents the prince’s departure from his royal life and his initial exposure to the harsh realities of the world, framing his quest as both a physical trek and a philosophical inquiry.

This work is widely regarded as a foundational achievement in the medium of manga, showcasing the author's ability to synthesize complex religious history into accessible narrative form. Readers often highlight the stark contrast between the two central figures as the primary engine of the story's tension. The series is frequently praised for its refusal to treat the subject matter with excessive reverence, opting instead for a humanistic approach that emphasizes the protagonist's fallibility. The pacing is noted for its balance between meditative reflection and sudden, visceral action, which keeps the reader engaged throughout the multi-volume arc.