The Hashira are the elite warriors in the Demon Slayer universe whose job is to defend humanity from demon threats. Among them, Yoriichi Tsugikuni is a legendary name known for his unmatched abilities and for inventing the sun-breathing technique. However, despite his incredible abilities, Yoriichi never became the leader of the Hashira.
Recent analysis focused on Gyomei Himejima, the current Stone Hashira, has brought a new perspective to this particular topic. We can better understand why Yoriichi, despite his incomparable abilities, would not have been the right choice for the leadership position inside the Demon Slayer Corps by looking at Gyomei’s attributes and techniques.
The Attributes of Stone Hashira Gyomei Himejima’s Breathing Technique
The current Stone Hashira, Gyomei Himejima, is well-known for his exceptional strength and expertise with the Stone Breathing technique. He is one of the most respected Hashira due to his physical and spiritual capabilities. Gyomei’s style is centered on strong defense and deadly offensive power, demonstrating his qualities as the perfect Hashira. Not only that, Gyomei is considered the strongest Hashira of the current generation.
Gyomei Stone breathing technique consists of five forms namely: first form (Serpentinite Bipolar), second form (Upper Smash), third form (Stone Skin), fourth form (Volcanic Rock, Rapid Conquest), and fifth form (Arcs of Justice). These forms allow Gyomei to deliver powerful attacks while maintaining an invincible defense. In addition, Gyomei is a calm, wise, and caring leader — qualities that are crucial for leading the Hashira.
Stone breathing is also known to be one of the oldest breathing techniques, invented during the Sengoku era. The first person to learn this technique was Kazuyoshi Iwamoto, who is also known to be the first demon slayer to become Hashira.
Kazuyoshi was once considered one of the strongest demon slayers and he even appointed as the second leader of the Hashira line-up aside of Hideyoshi Ubuyashiki. Yoriichi taught Kazuyoshi the Total Concentration Breathing. Kazuyoshi had deep admiration for Yoriichi, thus he wanted to learn the Sun Breathing Technique, but it accidentally resulted in the creation of the Stone Breathing Technique.
Why Yoriichi Never Became the Leader of Hashira
As discussed earlier, only individuals blessed with immense strength can properly use the Stone breathing technique. Even most of the Tsuguko of Stone Hashira give up on learning it because the training process is extremely physically straining. Both Kazuyoshi and Gyomei possess incomparable strength and durability, which makes them the perfect contenders for the position of Stone Hashira.
Their emotional intelligence allows them to connect with and inspire their comrades, providing them with the support and guidance needed to face the horrors of the demon. In contrast, Yoriichi’s traumatic past, filled with loss and isolation, deeply affected him. Yoriichi’s solitary nature and emotional burden made it difficult for him to connect with others on a deeper level, which is a crucial attribute of leaders. Although Yoriichi was a skilled warrior, his inability to foster relationships and lead a team ultimately kept him from taking on a leadership role.
This analogy highlights the aspect of leadership in the Demon Slayer Corps and shows that being the strongest warrior is not the only requirement for holding a leadership position. Gyomei and Kazuyoshi’s mastery of the Stone Breathing technique and their exemplary leadership qualities showcase the essential attributes needed to become the leader of the Hashira.
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