In a significant return, the Justice Society of America (JSA) has made a grand comeback within the DC Multiverse, introducing some of its original heroes. The JSA is one of DC Comics’ most esteemed groups, a team of heroes who have been battling evil since World War II times. Over the years, they’ve encountered numerous enemies, currently engaged in a fierce struggle with the Injustice Society, a group of villains that has plagued them since their inception. This recent battle has taken a heavy toll on the team. Wildcat tragically lost his life during combat in Surtur’s Realm, where the core members were mysteriously transported. Simultaneously, the rest of the Justice Society was grappling with a traitor among them. The two factions have reunited, but the situation for the team seems grimmer than ever. In JSA #8, readers are taken back to World War II, where the team is summoned to aid against the last remaining superpowered Nazis. Due to the Spear of Destiny, a potent magical artifact, the JSA was largely sidelined during the war, fighting in the US instead.
Throughout their long history, the Justice Society has encountered numerous perils; however, the Spear of Destiny could prove to be their most formidable foe yet. This legendary artifact, originating from real-world lore and incorporated into comic books, serves a unique purpose in the DC Universe. It’s intriguing to consider how such a powerful team, boasting members like Doctor Fate, who draws strength from Nabu, the Lord of Order, and the Spectre, the embodiment of vengeance itself, didn’t swiftly bring an end to World War II. The Spear of Destiny holds a significant place in DC’s rich history.
Hitler Used the Spear of Destiny to Nearly Destroy the Justice Society
If you’ve got any background in Christianity, you might recognize the Spear of Destiny. But for those who aren’t familiar, let me fill you in. The Spear of Destiny was a spear that a Roman soldier used to pierce Jesus Christ while He hung on the cross. This spear has been sought after by many throughout history as evidence of the Crucifixion, and several supposed versions have surfaced over time. The Nazis were particularly interested in artifacts like the Spear of Destiny, and it even made an appearance in comics. It first appeared in DC’s “Weird War Tales” #50 in 1977, and later played a significant role in the origin story of the Justice Society in “DC Special” #29, a tale titled “The Untold Origin of the Justice Society.” In the DC Universe, the Spear of Destiny held the power to manipulate the minds of individuals with superpowers. Hitler sought to use it to control American heroes and summon a host of Valkyries, which is an odd combination considering the Norse shieldmaidens were summoned using a Christian artifact. However, if you’re looking for logic in pre-“Crisis” DC comics, perhaps that’s not where you should be looking!
In a reimagined World War II scenario, Hitler dispatches his elite forces, including the Valkyries and bomber squadrons, towards Washington D.C. FDR rallies the American heroes in response to this attack. Despite their valiant efforts against the Valkyries, they only manage to hold off the threat until Earth-Two Superman joins the fray. The artifact, known as the Spear of Destiny, plays a pivotal role in these events, and the heroes learn its immense power. Consequently, they decide to keep their distance from Europe during the war. This event became a significant part of DC Comics lore, with variations appearing in stories like “The Golden Age.” The Spear of Destiny continued to appear across the DC Multiverse, sought after by villains and magic users alike. In modern times, it remains a key component of the Injustice Society’s plans, maintaining its status as the Justice Society’s most formidable adversary for decades. Its reappearance in “JSA” #8 serves as a reminder of its historical importance to DC Comics. However, it wasn’t the primary antagonist in this story; instead, Johnny Sorrow and Wotan intended to use it to conjure something far more dangerous.
The Spear of Destiny Could Mean Finally Mean the Death of the Justice Society
The Justice Society has encountered some of the deadliest adversaries conceivable. They played a pivotal part in the struggle against the Anti-Monitor, assisted in subduing Darkseid, fought against Extant, and essentially tackled challenges that other teams wouldn’t be equipped to handle. Among such an esteemed group, the Spear of Destiny was always one of the most formidable forces they’ve ever encountered.
The Spear returns, integrated into a unique device designed by the Injustice Society. The upcoming events promise intrigue, as the Injustice Society seems to be involved in higher-than-usual stakes. The Spear of Destiny carries ominous consequences, and let’s hope the Justice Society can thwart it.
JSA #8 is on sale now.
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2025-06-11 04:40