Rengoku Kyojuro, the Flame Hashira, met a tragic end battling Upper Rank Three, Akaza. But how did his strength compare to his fellow Hashira in Demon Slayer? This article delves into the power rankings of the Demon Slayer Corps’ elite, examining Rengoku’s abilities and placing him within the hierarchy.
Ranking the Hashira: A Measure of Strength
Determining the definitive strength ranking of the Hashira is complex, relying on feats, statements from characters, and demonstrated abilities. While subjective, a general consensus emerges, placing Gyomei Himejima, the Stone Hashira, at the pinnacle of strength. Both Tanjiro Kamado and Inosuke Hashibira acknowledge Gyomei’s superior power, further solidified by Kokushibo, Upper Rank One, who declared Gyomei the strongest Hashira he’d encountered in three centuries.
Following Gyomei, Sanemi Shinazugawa, the Wind Hashira, consistently ranks among the top two, often considered Gyomei’s equal in skill. Kokushibo himself affirmed Sanemi’s exceptional strength. Obanai Iguro, the Serpent Hashira, showcases remarkable endurance and stamina, carrying the group during the final battle against Muzan. His mastery of the See-Through World and ability to turn his blade red further cement his high ranking.
Rengoku’s Position Among the Elite
Rengoku’s strength is often debated, placing him in the middle tier of Hashira. His valiant fight against Akaza, where he held his own without a Demon Slayer Mark, is a testament to his power. While he ultimately fell, Rengoku inflicted significant damage on Akaza and prevented him from killing Tanjiro and his companions. This feat places him above Giyu Tomioka, the Water Hashira, and Muichiro Tokito, the Mist Hashira, who struggled more against Akaza and Upper Rank Five, respectively.
Rengoku’s fierce battle against Upper Rank Three demon, Akaza.
Giyu, despite possessing the Demon Slayer Mark, required Tanjiro’s assistance to defeat Akaza. Similarly, Tokito, although a prodigious talent, needed help to escape a perilous situation. However, both Giyu and Tokito’s potential remains a point of contention due to their premature deaths.
Giyu Tomioka, the Water Hashira, utilizing his Water Breathing techniques.
Below Rengoku: Strength and Abilities
Mitsuri Kanroji, the Love Hashira, displayed impressive strength by severing Muzan’s arm, yet she struggled significantly throughout the battle. Tengen Uzui, the Sound Hashira, possessed remarkable physical strength but faced difficulties against Upper Rank Six, Gyutaro and Daki, requiring assistance and ultimately retiring due to severe injuries. Shinobu Kocho, the Insect Hashira, acknowledged as the physically weakest, relied on her poison-laced blade to compensate for her lack of physical power.
Mitsuri Kanroji, the Love Hashira, engaged in combat.
Conclusion: Rengoku’s Legacy of Strength
Rengoku Kyojuro, though not the strongest Hashira, undeniably possessed remarkable strength and unwavering spirit. His performance against Akaza solidified his position within the upper-middle tier of the Demon Slayer Corps’ elite. While others might have surpassed him in raw power or potential, Rengoku’s unwavering courage and dedication remain an inspiration. His legacy extends beyond his strength, embodying the core values of a true Demon Slayer.
