In the riveting world of Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba, where demons are supernatural entities, the protagonist, Tanjiro Kamado, wields a weapon central to his journey – the Nichirin Sword. As a member of the Demon Slayer Corps, Tanjiro’s sword plays a vital role in combating the immortal demons. This exploration delves into the significance, mysteries, and evolution of Tanjiro’s Nichirin Sword.
Tanjiro’s Original Nichirin Sword
At the core of Demon Slayer lore is the concept that demons can only be defeated by Nichirin Swords, blades crafted from crimson iron sand and scarlet ore. Tanjiro’s first sword is a black Nichirin sword created by Hotaru, a swordsmith. Tanjiro receives the sword after the Final Selection, but loses it in season two when he throws it at the Upper Moon 3. He receives his second sword in season three. Black blades, considered rare and ominous, were believed to lead demon slayers to an early demise, but this superstition is debunked later in the series.
Crafting and Properties of Nichirin Swords
Nichirin Swords are unique weapons designed explicitly for demon slaying. Crafted from Scarlet Crimson Iron Sand and Scarlet Ore found in sunlight-bathed mountains, these swords absorb sunlight, allowing them to permanently kill demons upon decapitation. The forging process involves swordsmiths from the Swordsmith Village, who engrave the words “Destroyer of Demons” upon a Demon Slayer’s weapon after achieving the rank of Hashira.
The handguard, or tsuba, serves a protective function, preventing the swordsman from self-injury during combat. Nichirin Swords change color based on the wielder’s breathing technique, a phenomenon known as “Color Changing Katanas.” However, skill is crucial for the blade to exhibit this color shift.
The Mystery of the Black Sword
Tanjiro’s black Nichirin Sword is not just a weapon; it holds symbolic significance. Contrary to superstitions, the color black signifies Tanjiro’s affiliation with the Sun Breathing technique. As the Sun Breathing style is rooted in Tanjiro’s family legacy and is a direct descendant of the legendary Yoriichi Tsugikuni, whose pure black sword played a pivotal role in the series.
The narrative unfolds as Tanjiro inherits Yoriichi’s sword, known as the Yoriichi Type Zero, emphasizing the passing of the torch from one generation of demon slayers to the next. Tanjiro’s connection to this mighty blade becomes a focal point in his growth as a swordsman.
Why does Tanjro’s Sword turn Black?
Tanjiro’s sword turns black in due to his mastery of the Sun Breathing technique, a rare and powerful form of breathing style. Unlike other Demon Slayers who may have swords reflecting their breathing styles, Tanjiro’s black sword signifies his proficiency in the Sun Breathing technique, passed down through the Kamado family for generations.
The color black is chosen deliberately because it can absorb the most sunlight, making the Sun Breathing technique exceptionally lethal against demons. Tanjiro’s unique strength and determination are symbolized by the black hue of his sword. Despite the superstition that black blades are associated with a lack of skill and a shorter lifespan for the wielder, Tanjiro defies these notions.
His ability to use the Hinokami Kagura technique, an original breathing style, further adds to the uniqueness of his sword. In the Demon Slayer manga, Yoriichi Tsugikuni, the only other known master of Sun Breathing, also wielded a pure, deep black katana. This choice of color not only emphasizes Tanjiro’s familial legacy but also sets him apart from his fellow Demon Slayers. Tanjiro’s black sword serves as a visual representation of his unwavering resolve to protect others and his exceptional prowess in the art of demon slaying.
Does Tanjiro’s Sword turn Red?
Tanjiro’s sword undergoes a remarkable transformation, turning bright red during specific circumstances. This transformation is associated with heightened emotions, extraordinary abilities, and the activation of the Demon Slayer Mark. Nezuko, Tanjiro’s sister, demonstrates the ability to turn the sword red using her Blood Demon Art, showcasing the sword’s versatility.
Bright red Nichirin Swords, achieved through Nezuko’s intervention, hamper demon regeneration and generate intense heat, inflicting significant pain. The diverse methods of achieving this transformation add depth to the sword’s capabilities and play a pivotal role in crucial battles.
Tanjiro’s Sword Maker and Color Symbolism
Tanjiro’s trusted swordsmith is Hotaru Haganezuka, who crafts and maintains his Nichirin Sword. The color symbolism of Nichirin Swords aligns with the user’s breathing technique, with each color imparting specific properties to the blade. Tanjiro’s unique journey is reflected in his sword’s evolution and color changes, emphasizing the interconnectedness between the Demon Slayer and his weapon.
Tanjiro’s Nichirin Sword is more than a tool for demon slaying; it is a narrative cornerstone, symbolizing heritage, mastery, and the indomitable spirit of its wielder. From its mysterious black hue to the radiant red transformations, the sword reflects Tanjiro’s growth, determination, and the rich lore of Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba. As Tanjiro’s journey continues, so does the saga of his iconic sword, leaving an enduring mark on the world of anime and its dedicated fanbase.