Hashirama Senju, the legendary First Hokage, is reanimated during the Fourth Shinobi World War arc. He first appears in reanimated form in Naruto Shippuden episode 322, titled “The Resurrected Akatsuki.”
Unveiling the Senju Powerhouse: Hashirama’s Reanimation
The reanimation of Hashirama Senju is a pivotal moment in the Naruto Shippuden series, drastically shifting the balance of power in the ongoing Fourth Shinobi World War. Kabuto Yakushi, a master manipulator and skilled medical nin, utilizes the forbidden Reanimation Jutsu (Edo Tensei) to resurrect Hashirama along with other formidable shinobi, including his brother, Tobirama Senju, and former Hokages, Hiruzen Sarutobi and Minato Namikaze.
This unexpected resurrection throws the Allied Shinobi Forces into disarray, as they are forced to confront not only the formidable power of the reanimated shinobi but also the ethical implications of manipulating the dead. Hashirama, even in his reanimated state, possesses immense chakra reserves and unparalleled wood-style ninjutsu, making him a truly terrifying opponent.
His reanimation serves not only as a significant plot point for battles but also provides key moments for exposition and character development. Hashirama’s interactions with Naruto, particularly regarding the nature of peace and the burden of leadership, offer valuable insights into the core themes of the series. The resurrected Hokages, especially Hashirama, ultimately play a crucial role in defeating Madara Uchiha and ending the war.
Kabuto’s Motives and the Edo Tensei
Kabuto’s decision to reanimate Hashirama was driven by his desire for power and his fascination with Madara Uchiha. He sought to replicate Madara’s power, believing that by resurrecting individuals of immense strength and historical significance, he could create an unstoppable force.
The Edo Tensei, the technique Kabuto employs, is a forbidden jutsu that binds the soul of a deceased individual to a living vessel. The user provides a sample of the deceased’s DNA, and the soul is then summoned and bound to a reanimated body. The reanimated individual retains their memories, abilities, and personality, but they are under the control of the jutsu’s user. While the user can exert control, strong willpower or emotional connections can allow the reanimated individual to resist or even break free from the control.
Hashirama’s Impact on the War: More Than Just a Fighter
While his sheer power and combat prowess are undeniable, Hashirama’s influence during the Fourth Shinobi World War extends far beyond the battlefield. His conversations with Naruto serve as vital moments of mentorship, guiding Naruto towards a deeper understanding of his responsibilities as a leader and the complexities of achieving true peace.
His perspective, born from his own experiences in forging the Hidden Leaf Village and his tumultuous relationship with Madara Uchiha, provides Naruto with valuable insights that help him navigate the challenges he faces. These interactions highlight the importance of understanding history and learning from the mistakes of the past.
Furthermore, Hashirama’s presence inspires the Allied Shinobi Forces, reminding them of the strength and ideals upon which the shinobi world was built. His unwavering belief in the potential for unity and cooperation serves as a powerful motivator, helping to unite the diverse forces against a common enemy.
The Reanimation’s End: A Moment of Peace
Ultimately, the Edo Tensei is countered by Itachi Uchiha and Sasuke Uchiha, using the Izanami technique to force Kabuto to release the jutsu. This results in the souls of the reanimated individuals, including Hashirama, being freed and allowed to return to the afterlife, finding the peace they deserved. This signifies a crucial turning point in the war, as the loss of the reanimated shinobi weakens the enemy forces and allows the Allied Shinobi Forces to gain a decisive advantage.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Besides episode 322, in which other episodes does Hashirama appear reanimated?
Hashirama appears reanimated in numerous episodes following episode 322 of Naruto Shippuden. He is a prominent figure throughout the remainder of the Fourth Shinobi World War arc, particularly in episodes focused on the battles against Madara Uchiha and Obito Uchiha. Key episodes include those that showcase his wood-style jutsu and his interactions with Naruto.
2. Why was Hashirama chosen to be reanimated?
Hashirama was chosen due to his legendary status as the First Hokage and his immense power. He was considered one of the strongest shinobi to have ever lived, and his wood-style ninjutsu was unparalleled. Kabuto recognized his value as a powerful asset in the war.
3. Who was responsible for reanimating Hashirama?
Kabuto Yakushi was responsible for reanimating Hashirama. He perfected Orochimaru’s reanimation jutsu and used it to control several powerful deceased ninja.
4. How did Kabuto acquire Hashirama’s DNA for the Reanimation Jutsu?
Kabuto obtained Hashirama’s DNA by raiding a burial ground, specifically targeting locations associated with the Senju clan. This allowed him to acquire the necessary genetic material to perform the Reanimation Jutsu.
5. What were Hashirama’s initial reactions upon being reanimated?
Initially, Hashirama was confused and disoriented upon being reanimated. He quickly realized the situation and the fact that he was being controlled by Kabuto. Despite being under the jutsu’s control, his strong will allowed him to retain some semblance of awareness and personality.
6. Could Hashirama resist Kabuto’s control?
While Hashirama was initially under Kabuto’s control, his immense willpower and connection to the living world allowed him to resist the control to some extent. He could communicate and offer advice to Naruto, demonstrating his residual agency despite the limitations imposed by the Edo Tensei.
7. What were some of Hashirama’s most powerful techniques displayed during his reanimated state?
Hashirama’s most powerful techniques showcased during his reanimated state included his wood-style ninjutsu, such as the Wood Release: Hōbi Technique, and his ability to summon and control massive wooden constructs. He also demonstrated his immense chakra reserves and his mastery of sage mode.
8. How did Hashirama interact with Naruto during the war?
Hashirama offered guidance and advice to Naruto, sharing his experiences and insights on leadership and the pursuit of peace. He emphasized the importance of understanding the past and learning from the mistakes of those who came before. Their interactions helped shape Naruto’s understanding of his own responsibilities.
9. What role did Hashirama play in the fight against Madara Uchiha?
Hashirama played a crucial role in the fight against Madara Uchiha, even in his reanimated state. He engaged Madara in combat, showcasing his wood-style techniques and his immense chakra reserves. His presence helped to weaken Madara and provided an opportunity for the Allied Shinobi Forces to coordinate their attacks.
10. How did the Reanimation Jutsu affect Hashirama’s abilities?
The Reanimation Jutsu granted Hashirama nearly unlimited chakra and enhanced his durability, but it also limited his freedom and subjected him to the control of Kabuto. He couldn’t fully utilize his techniques as he would in his original form and was ultimately compelled to fight against his will.
11. What happened to Hashirama’s soul after the Reanimation Jutsu was released?
After Itachi Uchiha successfully released the Reanimation Jutsu, Hashirama’s soul was freed and returned to the afterlife. He was able to find peace, knowing that the future of the shinobi world was in capable hands.
12. Was Hashirama ever truly “evil” while reanimated?
Despite being under Kabuto’s control, Hashirama never displayed inherently evil behavior. His strong will and inherent goodness allowed him to retain some semblance of his true self. He actively resisted Kabuto’s influence when possible and sought to guide Naruto towards a better future. His actions, even while reanimated, were largely driven by his desire for peace and the well-being of the shinobi world.