Episode 19 of Demon Slayer, titled “Hinokami,” is a pivotal moment in the series, showcasing Tanjiro Kamado’s awakening to a deeper level of power and resolve as he faces off against Rui, a member of the Twelve Kizuki. It’s a visually stunning and emotionally charged episode that significantly elevates the stakes and redefines Tanjiro’s potential within the Demon Slayer Corps.
The Climax of Mount Natagumo: Tanjiro’s Resolve
The episode opens with Tanjiro and Nezuko facing their toughest challenge yet: Rui, the Lower Rank Five demon of the Twelve Kizuki. Rui possesses the ability to manipulate and control spider threads that are incredibly sharp and deadly. Initially, Tanjiro struggles immensely, finding his Water Breathing techniques ineffective against Rui’s attacks. He’s pushed to his absolute limit, witnessing the extent of Rui’s cruelty and power. This desperate situation forces Tanjiro to confront his own limitations and push beyond them.
The turning point arrives when Nezuko is seemingly killed by Rui. Fuelled by raw rage and a primal desire to protect his sister, Tanjiro unlocks a memory of his father performing the Hinokami Kagura dance. This dance, a form of sun-breathing technique, allows him to access a new style of swordsmanship far more potent than Water Breathing. The animation during these sequences is particularly breathtaking, highlighting the power and grace of the Hinokami Kagura.
Using the Hinokami Kagura, specifically the “Burning Chariot” form, Tanjiro manages to sever Rui’s head. However, Rui manages to sever his own head using his threads moments before, preventing the decisive blow. While seemingly defeated, the episode concludes with Giyu Tomioka, the Water Pillar, arriving to confront Rui, leaving the audience on a cliffhanger.
The Significance of “Hinokami”
“Hinokami” is more than just an action-packed episode; it is a significant character development moment for Tanjiro. It reveals a hidden legacy within the Kamado family, a connection to the original and most powerful breathing technique: Sun Breathing. The episode also highlights the unbreakable bond between Tanjiro and Nezuko, which serves as his primary source of strength. Furthermore, the arrival of Giyu Tomioka reinforces the hierarchy and power dynamics within the Demon Slayer Corps, demonstrating the vast difference in skill between a novice slayer and a seasoned Pillar.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
H3: What exactly is the Hinokami Kagura?
The Hinokami Kagura is a ceremonial dance performed by the Kamado family every year to ward off evil spirits. Unbeknownst to Tanjiro, it is also a form of Sun Breathing, the original and most powerful breathing style from which all other styles, including Water Breathing, are derived. It allows the user to channel their inner power and execute devastating attacks. Tanjiro learns the movements instinctively from a memory of his father performing the dance.
H3: Why is the Hinokami Kagura more effective against Rui than Water Breathing?
Water Breathing is a strong and versatile technique, but it is ultimately derived from Sun Breathing and therefore less potent. Rui’s demonic abilities are particularly resistant to Water Breathing. Sun Breathing, on the other hand, is the origin of all breathing styles and possesses a unique connection to the sun, which is inherently damaging to demons. This makes it significantly more effective against powerful demons like Rui.
H3: How did Tanjiro remember the Hinokami Kagura?
Tanjiro remembered the Hinokami Kagura in a moment of extreme duress and emotional distress. Witnessing Nezuko’s apparent death triggered a powerful emotional response that unlocked a deeply ingrained memory of his father performing the dance. This suggests that the Hinokami Kagura is not just a learned skill but also an inherited ability passed down through the Kamado family.
H3: Is Rui really dead at the end of the episode?
While Tanjiro manages to sever Rui’s head, Rui manages to sever his own head using his threads before Tanjiro’s attack fully connects. This prevents a clean decapitation, which is usually the method for killing demons. Giyu’s arrival suggests that Rui is not yet dead, and the fight is far from over. He needs to be decapitated with a nichirin sword by someone like Giyu to truly be defeated.
H3: What is the significance of Rui being a member of the Twelve Kizuki?
The Twelve Kizuki are the strongest demons directly under Muzan Kibutsuji’s command. They are significantly more powerful than ordinary demons and possess unique abilities. The fact that Rui is a member of the Twelve Kizuki highlights the immense threat he poses and the difficulty Tanjiro faces in defeating him. Defeating a Lower Rank Five demon is a significant achievement for Tanjiro at this stage in his training.
H3: What role does Nezuko play in Tanjiro’s victory (or near-victory)?
Nezuko’s unwavering loyalty and protective instincts are crucial to Tanjiro’s ability to access the Hinokami Kagura. Her apparent death serves as the catalyst for his emotional awakening and the unlocking of his hidden potential. The intense bond between them fuels his resolve and allows him to push beyond his limits.
H3: How does this episode change Tanjiro’s trajectory as a Demon Slayer?
This episode marks a turning point for Tanjiro. The discovery of the Hinokami Kagura opens up a new avenue for him to develop his skills and become a more powerful Demon Slayer. He now has access to a superior breathing technique, although he needs to learn how to control and master it. It also puts him on a collision course with Muzan Kibutsuji, as Sun Breathing is a threat to Muzan.
H3: What is a Pillar, and why is Giyu Tomioka’s arrival so significant?
The Pillars are the highest-ranking members of the Demon Slayer Corps, possessing exceptional strength and skill. They are the most experienced and powerful Demon Slayers, each specializing in a different breathing style. Giyu Tomioka’s arrival signifies the vast difference in power between Tanjiro and the elite members of the Corps. His presence guarantees that Rui will finally be defeated.
H3: Why does Rui seem to have family issues?
Rui’s backstory, hinted at in the episode, reveals a deep-seated desire for a family bond, but he warps and manipulates others to fit his twisted definition of what a family should be. He forces other demons to act as his siblings, creating a dysfunctional and abusive dynamic. This desire stems from his own past and the trauma he experienced before becoming a demon.
H3: Will Tanjiro completely abandon Water Breathing after learning about Hinokami Kagura?
No, Tanjiro will likely continue to use Water Breathing alongside Hinokami Kagura. Water Breathing is a versatile and reliable technique, and Tanjiro has trained extensively in it. However, the Hinokami Kagura will become his primary weapon against powerful demons, as it offers a significant advantage in terms of power and effectiveness. He will need to master both styles to become a truly formidable Demon Slayer.
H3: How does the animation quality contribute to the episode’s impact?
The animation quality in episode 19 is exceptional, particularly during the Hinokami Kagura sequences. The fluid movements, vibrant colors, and detailed character expressions amplify the emotional intensity of the scene and make it visually stunning. The use of dynamic camera angles and special effects further enhances the impact of the action and draws the viewer into the world of Demon Slayer. The high-quality animation is a key factor in the episode’s overall success and popularity.
H3: What are the long-term consequences of Tanjiro using the Hinokami Kagura in terms of his health?
Using the Hinokami Kagura, especially at this early stage, puts a significant strain on Tanjiro’s body. He is not yet strong enough to fully control the power of Sun Breathing, and forcing himself to use it can lead to exhaustion, injuries, and potentially even long-term health problems. He will need to train rigorously to master the technique and strengthen his body to withstand the immense power it requires.