In the world of Bleach, Zanpakuto is a type of sword that is used by the Shinigami, or Soul Reapers, to defeat evil spirits known as Hollows. Each Zanpakuto has its own unique abilities and powers, which are based on the personality and characteristics of its wielder. In addition to its physical form, a Zanpakuto also has a spiritual form, known as its Zanpakuto spirit.
Hitsugaya’s Zanpakuto – Hyorinmaru
Toshiro Hitsugaya’s Zanpakuto, Hyorinmaru, is one of the most powerful in all of Bleach. It takes the form of a traditional Japanese katana with a white hilt and guard. Its abilities are based on the element of ice, and it can create and manipulate ice in various forms.
One of Hyorinmaru’s most impressive abilities is its Bankai, which is a more advanced form of Zanpakuto release. When Hitsugaya activates his Bankai, Hyorinmaru transforms into a massive ice dragon. This form grants Hitsugaya even greater control over ice, allowing him to freeze entire landscapes and create powerful ice-based attacks.
However, some fans have speculated that Hyorinmaru may have been made permanently heavier at some point in the series. This theory is based on the fact that Hitsugaya’s Bankai appears to be much larger and heavier than his regular Zanpakuto, leading some to believe that it may have been altered in some way.
Theories
Permanent Weight Increase Theory
One theory regarding Hitsugaya’s Zanpakuto is that it was made permanently heavier. This theory suggests that the weight increase was not a temporary effect of his Bankai, but rather a permanent change made to his Zanpakuto by an unknown force. Supporters of this theory point to the fact that Hitsugaya’s Zanpakuto is unique in that it is a dual-type Zanpakuto, meaning it has both ice and water-based abilities. They argue that the weight increase could have been caused by a fusion of the two types, resulting in a denser and heavier blade.
Furthermore, some fans have speculated that the weight increase could be a result of Hitsugaya’s own growth and maturity as a Shinigami. As he becomes stronger and more experienced, his Zanpakuto may have naturally evolved to become heavier and more powerful.
Counterarguments
Despite the evidence presented by supporters of the Permanent Weight Increase Theory, there are several counterarguments to consider. One argument is that there is no concrete evidence to suggest that Hitsugaya’s Zanpakuto was permanently altered. While it is true that his Zanpakuto became heavier during his fight with Harribel, it is unclear whether this was a permanent change or simply a temporary effect of his Bankai.
Another argument against the theory is that there is no precedent for a Zanpakuto becoming permanently heavier. While Zanpakuto can certainly evolve over time, there is no known instance of a Zanpakuto becoming permanently heavier as a result of this evolution.
Finally, some fans have suggested that the weight increase was simply a plot device used by the writers to make Hitsugaya’s fights more challenging. They argue that the weight increase was never intended to be a permanent change to his Zanpakuto, but rather a temporary obstacle for him to overcome.
Evidence
Manga Evidence
In the manga, there is no direct evidence that Hitsugaya’s zanpakuto was made permanently heavier. However, there are a few instances where it is hinted that his zanpakuto may have been altered in some way. One example is in Chapter 392, where it is revealed that Hyorinmaru has been “awakened” and its power increased. Hitsugaya himself acknowledges that his zanpakuto has become stronger than ever before. While this does not directly address the question of weight, it does suggest that there may have been some changes made to the zanpakuto. Another possible hint is in Chapter 546, where Hitsugaya uses his bankai against Bazz-B. During the fight, Bazz-B notes that Hitsugaya’s ice is “heavier” than before. While this could simply be a comment on the strength of the attack, it could also be interpreted as a reference to the weight of the zanpakuto.
Anime Evidence
In the anime, there is more direct evidence that Hitsugaya’s zanpakuto was made permanently heavier. In Episode 308, it is revealed that during his fight with Harribel, Aizen used his powers to permanently alter the weight of Hyorinmaru. Hitsugaya himself confirms this in Episode 309, stating that his zanpakuto has become “heavy as a mountain.” This alteration is also referenced in later episodes, such as Episode 346, where Hitsugaya struggles to lift his zanpakuto after being weakened by Ayon’s attack. While this may not be conclusive proof, it does suggest that the weight of the zanpakuto has been altered in some way. Overall, while there is no definitive evidence that Hitsugaya’s zanpakuto was made permanently heavier in the manga, the anime provides more direct evidence that this is the case.
Conclusion
While there is some debate among fans about whether or not Hitsugaya’s zanpakuto was made permanently heavier, the evidence suggests that this is not the case. The scene in which his zanpakuto appears heavier is likely due to the weight of the ice that it creates, rather than any actual change in the sword itself.
Additionally, the fact that Hitsugaya is able to use his zanpakuto without any apparent difficulty in later episodes and chapters further supports the idea that there was no permanent change made to the weapon.
Overall, it seems that this was simply a momentary effect created for dramatic effect, rather than a permanent alteration to the zanpakuto’s properties. While it is certainly possible that the writers could revisit this idea in the future and reveal that Hitsugaya’s sword has been changed in some way, there is no evidence to suggest that this has already happened.
