Zenitsu Agatsuma is a key character in Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba, a member of the Demon Slayer Corps, and a wielder of Thunder Breathing. Known for his cowardly demeanor, he transforms into a skilled fighter when unconscious, using his mastered First Form: Thunderclap and Flash. Despite his fear, he travels with Tanjiro Kamado and Inosuke Hashibira, facing powerful demons. His rank within the Corps is Kanoe, reflecting moderate experience but exceptional potential.
The anime is currently in the Hashira Training Arc (Season 4), where Zenitsu trains under the Hashira to prepare for the final battle against Muzan. He struggles with the grueling regimen but shows growth, particularly after receiving a pivotal letter. His rank remains Kanoe, but his skills shine in combat scenarios. Demon Slayer is available on Crunchyroll, Netflix, and Funimation.
Zenitsu never becomes a Hashira, but his power rivals their level by the series’ end. He defeats an Upper Rank demon alone, a feat only Hashira typically achieve, and creates a new Thunder Breathing form. However, the Demon Slayer Corps disbands after Muzan’s defeat, preventing his promotion. His growth from a timid slayer to a formidable fighter is remarkable.
What Prevents Zenitsu from Becoming a Hashira?
Zenitsu’s path to Hashira status is blocked by specific circumstances. To become a Hashira, a slayer must kill 50 demons or defeat a Twelve Kizuki member and gain Corps approval. Zenitsu meets these criteria by defeating Upper Rank Six, Kaigaku, in the Infinity Castle Arc.
His mastery of Thunder Breathing and creation of the Seventh Form: Honoikazuchi no Kami demonstrate Hashira-level skill. However, the Demon Slayer Corps disbands immediately after Muzan’s defeat, as demons vanish, eliminating the need for Hashira. Zenitsu’s earlier avoidance of Hashira Training due to its intensity also delays his readiness. Additionally, his low self-esteem and tendency to flee from danger hinder his recognition within the Corps.
By the time he proves his strength, the final battle against Muzan begins, leaving no opportunity for promotion. These factors—timing, Corps dissolution, and personal struggles—prevent Zenitsu from achieving the title despite his qualifications.
How Strong Is Zenitsu in Demon Slayer?
Zenitsu’s strength in Demon Slayer is extraordinary, approaching Hashira-level by the series’ end. His Thunder Breathing, particularly the First Form: Thunderclap and Flash, allows blinding speed, enhanced by variants like Godspeed. While asleep, he defeats demons like the Tongue Demon effortlessly.
Awake, he showcases his peak power by single-handedly killing Kaigaku, an Upper Rank Six demon, in the Infinity Castle Arc, using his self-created Seventh Form. This feat mirrors Hashira accomplishments, as only they typically defeat Upper Ranks alone. His acute hearing aids in detecting enemies and discerning intentions, giving him a tactical edge. He lacks the versatility of Hashira, mastering only one Thunder Breathing form, unlike Kaigaku, who knows five.
He also misses the Demon Slayer Mark, which boosts Hashira strength. Despite these gaps, his speed surpasses many peers, and his contributions against Muzan prove his near-Hashira prowess. Zenitsu’s growth from a coward to a warrior capable of protecting train carts from Enmu or blitzing Daki highlights his immense power.
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Arvind is a Senior Writer and Editor at Hilvaro, specializing in anime, entertainment, and pop culture. With a BSc in Transportation Technology, his passion for storytelling led him to a career in journalism. He has previously contributed to Sportskeeda and GameRant, covering anime and entertainment with a keen eye for detail.
Outside writing, Arvind loves gaming and is fond of anime, binge-watching movies and television series. He spends some of his free time listening to rock music and writing poetry. What Arvind appreciates most about pop culture is the theme that makes it more alive and engaging for this generation; thus the possibility of such content reaching readers across the globe.
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