Have you ever watched Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba and wondered about the intense animosity radiating from the Serpent Hashira, Obanai Iguro, towards the series’ kind-hearted protagonist, Tanjiro Kamado? It’s a dynamic that confuses many fans, especially given Tanjiro’s generally amiable nature. Understanding this friction requires digging into Obanai’s rigid personality, his dark past, Demon Slayer Corps rules, and even a touch of jealousy.
Obanai’s intense dislike for Tanjiro stems primarily from Tanjiro’s defiant protection of his demon sister, Nezuko, which violates the Demon Slayer Corps’ code. Compounding this are Obanai’s strict adherence to rules, his inherent distrust of demons, and potential jealousy over Mitsuri Kanroji.
Unraveling the layers behind why does Obanai hate Tanjiro reveals fascinating insights into both characters and the unforgiving world they inhabit. This deep dive explores the specific reasons for Obanai’s hostility, from rule-breaking and perceived weakness to complex personal insecurities and how their relationship dramatically evolves. Prepare to understand the Serpent Hashira’s initial venom towards Tanjiro like never before.
Key Facts:
* Rule Violation: Tanjiro’s act of protecting Nezuko, a demon, was a direct violation of the Demon Slayer Corps’ fundamental rules, immediately putting him at odds with rule-abiding members like Obanai.
* Hashira Disapproval: During Tanjiro’s initial audience with the Hashira, Obanai was among the most vocal in rejecting the idea of allowing Nezuko to live, showcasing his immediate distrust.
* Underestimation: Obanai initially viewed Tanjiro as weak and unworthy, expressing explicit disbelief when learning Tanjiro survived against Upper Rank Six demons.
* Jealousy Factor: Obanai harbors deep feelings for Mitsuri Kanroji, and Tanjiro’s growing friendship with her, particularly after the Swordsmith Village arc, is widely considered a source of jealousy fueling Obanai’s dislike.
* Relationship Evolution: Despite intense initial hatred, Obanai’s view of Tanjiro changes significantly during the final battle against Muzan, where he actively defends Tanjiro and accepts his help, showing camaraderie.
What Defines the Initial Dynamic Between Obanai Iguro and Tanjiro Kamado?
The initial dynamic between Obanai Iguro and Tanjiro Kamado is defined by strong hostility and immediate disdain from Obanai. This antagonism stems from Obanai’s perception of Tanjiro as a rule-breaker harboring a demon (Nezuko), combined with the Serpent Hashira’s inherently harsh, judgmental personality and strict adherence to the Demon Slayer Corps’ code. He views Tanjiro not just as insubordinate but also as weak and naive.
From their very first meeting, Obanai doesn’t hide his contempt. His actions and words are pointedly aggressive, setting a tone of intense conflict. Unlike some other Hashira who might show hesitancy or curiosity, Obanai’s reaction is one of immediate rejection and punishment, reflecting his rigid worldview and deep-seated hatred for anything related to demons or defiance against the Corps’ established order.
This initial friction isn’t just a minor disagreement; it’s a profound clash of personalities and principles. Obanai, scarred by his past and fiercely loyal to the Corps’ leader, Kagaya Ubuyashiki, sees Tanjiro’s very presence with Nezuko as an unacceptable transgression. Tanjiro’s kindness and determination are interpreted negatively through Obanai’s cynical lens, solidifying the Serpent Hashira’s position as one of Tanjiro’s earliest and most severe critics within the Hashira ranks.
First Impressions: The Hashira Meeting
The Hashira meeting serves as the critical introduction between Obanai and Tanjiro, immediately showcasing Obanai’s extreme hostility. When Tanjiro is brought before the Hashira at the Ubuyashiki Mansion, accused of violating the Demon Slayer Corps’ rules by traveling with his demon sister Nezuko, Obanai is perched in a tree, looking down on him with clear scorn. He doesn’t wait for explanations or context; his judgment is swift and physical.
Obanai forcefully restrains Tanjiro, pinning his arms behind his back and pressing his face into the gravel. His actions are brutal and dominating, meant to inflict pain and assert authority. Alongside Sanemi Shinazugawa, the Wind Hashira, Obanai bullies Tanjiro, demonstrating callous disregard for his well-being or circumstances. This scene starkly establishes Obanai’s perception of Tanjiro as someone beneath contempt, deserving punishment rather than understanding, setting the antagonistic foundation for their relationship.
Obanai’s Immediate Judgement
Obanai’s judgment of Tanjiro is instantaneous and overwhelmingly negative. He doesn’t see a desperate brother trying to save his sister or a promising rookie slayer; he sees a rule-breaker and an inherently weak individual whose association with a demon makes him untrustworthy and dangerous. This harsh assessment stems from Obanai’s abrasive personality and his deep-seated distrust, likely amplified by his traumatic past involving demons.
His low opinion is explicitly stated later when Tengen Uzui, the Sound Hashira, mentions Tanjiro’s survival against Upper Rank Six demons, Gyutaro and Daki. Obanai expresses shock and disbelief, unable to reconcile the image of the “upstart he hates” with such a significant accomplishment. This reaction underscores that Obanai initially dismissed Tanjiro’s potential entirely, viewing him through a lens clouded by prejudice against Nezuko and disdain for anyone challenging the Corps’ established norms. His judgment is less about Tanjiro’s actual character and more about Obanai’s rigid adherence to his own harsh standards.
Why Does Obanai Hate Tanjiro in Demon Slayer?
Obanai hates Tanjiro primarily because Tanjiro protects his demon sister Nezuko, violating strict Demon Slayer rules. Obanai’s rigid adherence to the code, deep-seated hatred for demons, and potential jealousy regarding Mitsuri contribute to his hostility. Several interconnected factors drive the Serpent Hashira’s intense dislike for the young protagonist, making their relationship fraught with tension from the outset.
Let’s break down the core reasons:
- Tanjiro’s Association with Nezuko: The absolute primary reason is Tanjiro’s unwavering protection of Nezuko, a demon. This is a direct violation of the Demon Slayer Corps’ most fundamental rule: eliminate all demons. Obanai, a staunch traditionalist and rule-follower, sees this as an unforgivable transgression.
- Violation of Corps Rules and Insubordination: Obanai holds the Demon Slayer Corps’ rules and its leader, Kagaya Ubuyashiki, in extremely high regard. Tanjiro’s actions are perceived not just as rule-breaking but as direct insubordination, challenging the authority and structure Obanai deeply respects.
- Deep-Seated Hatred of Demons: Obanai harbors an intense, personal hatred for demons stemming from his horrific past. This trauma makes him incapable of viewing any demon, including Nezuko, with anything other than suspicion and loathing, transferring that hostility onto Tanjiro for associating with one.
- Perceived Weakness: Initially, Obanai views Tanjiro as weak, naive, and unworthy of being a Demon Slayer, let alone associating with the Hashira. He dismisses Tanjiro’s abilities and determination.
- Personality Clash: Obanai’s harsh, critical, and pessimistic personality clashes dramatically with Tanjiro’s inherent kindness, optimism, and empathy.
These factors combine to create a perfect storm of animosity. For Obanai, Tanjiro represents a challenge to everything he believes in and upholds within the Demon Slayer Corps framework.
Tanjiro Protecting a Demon (Nezuko)
A primary reason Obanai hates Tanjiro is his protection of Nezuko, a demon. This directly violates the Demon Slayer Corps’ strict code against associating with demons, which the rule-abiding Obanai cannot tolerate. For Obanai, the existence of a demon within the Corps, protected by a Slayer, is fundamentally wrong and dangerous. His personal history, marked by betrayal and suffering at the hands of a demon, fuels an uncompromising hatred and distrust towards their kind. He sees no possibility for coexistence or exception.
When Tanjiro presents Nezuko, who remarkably refrains from attacking humans even when provoked (as demonstrated during Sanemi’s test at the Hashira meeting), Obanai remains utterly unconvinced. He, along with Sanemi, represents the faction of Hashira most fiercely opposed to Kagaya Ubuyashiki’s decision to allow Nezuko to accompany Tanjiro. This opposition isn’t just about rules; it’s a visceral reaction rooted in his deeply ingrained hatred and fear of demons. Tanjiro’s unwavering devotion to Nezuko, therefore, positions him as an enemy in Obanai’s eyes, someone actively undermining the Corps’ mission and principles by harboring the very creature they are sworn to destroy.
Breaking Demon Slayer Corps Rules & Insubordination
Obanai Iguro values order, discipline, and unwavering loyalty to the Demon Slayer Corps’ rules and its leader above almost anything else. His perspective is rigid: the rules exist for a reason, and adherence is paramount for the organization’s effectiveness and the safety of humanity. Tanjiro’s actions, particularly his initial refusal to relinquish Nezuko and his defense of her against fellow Hashira like Sanemi, are seen by Obanai as blatant insubordination and a dangerous disregard for established protocol.
This perceived defiance rankles Obanai deeply. He interprets Tanjiro’s commitment to Nezuko not as brotherly love, but as a selfish act that jeopardizes the Corps. Furthermore, figures like Giyu Tomioka, who vouch for Tanjiro and Nezuko and bend the rules to accommodate them, also earn Obanai’s ire. For Obanai, anyone who breaks or bends the code, regardless of the circumstances, disrespects the sacrifices made by countless Slayers and weakens the organization’s very foundation. Tanjiro’s insistence on carving his own path, especially concerning Nezuko, represents a fundamental challenge to the order Obanai fiercely upholds.
Perceived Weakness and Initial Disbelief
Beyond the rule-breaking, Obanai initially holds a profoundly low opinion of Tanjiro’s capabilities as a Demon Slayer. He views Tanjiro as nothing more than a soft-hearted, inexperienced rookie who somehow stumbled into the Corps. This perception of weakness makes Tanjiro’s defiance even more galling to Obanai; not only is Tanjiro breaking the rules, but in Obanai’s eyes, he lacks the strength or status to warrant any exception.
This disdain is vividly illustrated after the Entertainment District arc. When Tengen Uzui informs the Hashira that Tanjiro played a crucial role in defeating Upper Rank Six demons, Gyutaro and Daki, Obanai’s reaction is one of utter disbelief and shock. He cannot fathom that the “upstart [he] hates” could achieve such a feat against one of the formidable Twelve Kizuki. This moment clearly reveals that Obanai had completely written off Tanjiro’s potential, viewing his survival and success as almost impossible, further highlighting the depth of his initial underestimation and contempt.
How Does Obanai’s Relationship with Mitsuri Impact His View of Tanjiro?
Obanai’s deep affection for Mitsuri Kanroji likely fuels jealousy towards Tanjiro. Seeing Tanjiro interact closely and build a friendship with Mitsuri, especially after the Swordsmith Village arc, appears to intensify Obanai’s existing dislike. While Obanai harbors profound romantic feelings for the Love Hashira, he struggles to express them due to his own deep-seated insecurities and feelings of unworthiness stemming from his traumatic past.
Mitsuri, with her open and friendly nature, easily connects with Tanjiro. They fight alongside each other, share experiences, and develop a genuine, albeit platonic, bond. For Obanai, who watches Mitsuri from afar and feels inadequate, seeing Tanjiro receive her attention and friendship likely triggers intense possessiveness and jealousy. This doesn’t necessarily mean he perceives Tanjiro as a romantic rival, but rather resents anyone getting close to the person he loves, especially someone he already dislikes for other reasons. This jealousy adds another complex layer to why does Obanai hate Tanjiro, intertwining his personal insecurities with his established prejudices.
Obanai’s Feelings for Mitsuri
Obanai Iguro harbors deep, complex, and largely unspoken romantic feelings for Mitsuri Kanroji. His affection for her is one of the few visible cracks in his otherwise harsh and guarded exterior. He often observes her, gifts her things (like the striped socks she wears), and shows rare moments of softness or concern directed exclusively towards her. However, his own past trauma and resulting self-loathing create significant internal barriers.
Obanai feels fundamentally tainted and unworthy of Mitsuri’s pure and cheerful nature. He believes his “filthy blood” makes him undeserving of a normal life or happiness alongside her. This profound insecurity prevents him from openly expressing his feelings, leading to a state of quiet devotion mixed with possessiveness. He cherishes Mitsuri immensely but feels incapable of bridging the gap between them, making him highly sensitive to her interactions with others.
Tanjiro’s Friendship with Mitsuri
Following their shared battle experiences, particularly in the Swordsmith Village arc where they fought together against Upper Rank demons, Tanjiro and Mitsuri develop a warm and supportive friendship. Mitsuri is naturally drawn to Tanjiro’s kindness and determination, offering him encouragement and praise. Tanjiro, in turn, respects Mitsuri’s strength and vibrant personality. Their interactions are characterized by mutual admiration and easy camaraderie.
This platonic bond, however, becomes a point of contention for Obanai. During the Hashira Training arc, it’s implied that Obanai explicitly warns Tanjiro not to speak casually with Mitsuri. Seeing Tanjiro easily interact with the Love Hashira, sharing moments of closeness and positivity that Obanai himself feels incapable of initiating, likely triggers his jealousy and possessiveness. Even though the friendship is innocent, from Obanai’s insecure perspective, Tanjiro represents someone encroaching on the connection he desperately wants but feels unworthy of pursuing himself, thus adding fuel to his existing animosity.
Does Obanai’s Strict Personality and Traumatic Past Fuel His Dislike?
Yes, Obanai’s extremely strict personality, rooted in his traumatic past and self-loathing, significantly fuels his dislike for Tanjiro. His rigid adherence to rules and deep distrust of demons, both direct consequences of his history, make Tanjiro’s actions particularly offensive to him. Obanai isn’t just being difficult; his harshness is a defense mechanism and a reflection of the brutal world he endured.
His past involved being born into a family that worshipped and sacrificed its members to a serpent demon. Being the sole male survivor, imprisoned and later scarred by the demon, left him with profound trauma, guilt, and an intense hatred for demons. This experience shaped his unwavering belief in the Demon Slayer Corps’ mission and its rules as the only way to combat such evil. Simultaneously, it fostered deep self-loathing, as he feels tainted by his lineage and survival.
Therefore, Tanjiro, who challenges the Corps’ rules by protecting a demon and embodies a certain hopeful idealism that Obanai likely lost long ago, becomes a natural target for Obanai’s projected anger and rigidly held beliefs. Tanjiro’s existence with Nezuko fundamentally clashes with the harsh lessons Obanai learned through immense suffering.
Unwavering Adherence to Rules and Code of Conduct
Obanai Iguro is arguably one of the most disciplined and rule-bound Hashira. His commitment to the Demon Slayer Corps’ code of conduct is absolute. He possesses almost zero tolerance for any deviation from these established principles, viewing them as essential for maintaining order and effectively fighting demons. This rigidity isn’t just about bureaucratic inflexibility; it’s rooted in his belief that these rules are the bulwark against the chaos and suffering caused by demons, something he experienced firsthand.
This unwavering stance puts him directly at odds with characters like Tanjiro and Giyu Tomioka, who demonstrate a willingness to bend or break rules based on individual circumstances or empathy. Obanai perceives such actions not as compassionate, but as dangerously naive and disrespectful to the institution he serves. For him, Tanjiro’s protection of Nezuko isn’t just problematic; it’s a flagrant violation of the Corps’ core tenets, demanding correction and punishment. His adherence to the rules is a cornerstone of his identity as a Hashira.
Impact of Obanai’s Traumatic Past and Self-Loathing
Obanai’s backstory is exceptionally dark and directly informs his harsh personality and actions. Born into a clan that worshipped a female serpent demon, he was kept imprisoned as a rare male offering. His family willingly sacrificed others to appease the demon, and Obanai himself was scarred by the demon when he attempted escape. He is the sole survivor of his family, rescued by a former Flame Hashira, but carries immense guilt and self-loathing.
He feels tainted by his family’s actions and his connection to the demon, believing his survival came at the cost of his relatives’ lives. This intense self-hatred fuels his animosity towards demons and contributes to his cold, distrustful demeanor. It also likely contributes to his feelings of unworthiness regarding Mitsuri. Tanjiro, embodying hope and challenging the absolute hatred of demons Obanai clings to, likely represents a uncomfortable mirror to Obanai’s own pain and perceived failings, making his initial rejection of Tanjiro even more severe.
Does Obanai’s Perception of Tanjiro Evolve Throughout the Series?
Yes, Obanai’s perception of Tanjiro evolves significantly throughout the series, moving from intense hatred and disdain towards grudging respect and camaraderie. While their relationship starts on incredibly rocky ground, the shared experience of fighting powerful demons, particularly during the final desperate battle against Muzan Kibutsuji, forces a reassessment.
Initially, Obanai dismisses Tanjiro as weak, insubordinate, and rule-breaking. However, witnessing Tanjiro’s unwavering determination, surprising strength, and genuine kindness begins to chip away at Obanai’s prejudice. The sheer scale of the final battle and the sacrifices involved foster a sense of unity among the remaining Demon Slayers. Obanai starts to see Tanjiro not just as the boy traveling with a demon, but as a fellow warrior fighting for the same cause. This evolution culminates in moments of protection and cooperation during their deadliest fight, showing a remarkable shift from his initial hostility.
Moments of Defense During the Final Battle
The intense, high-stakes environment of the final battle against Muzan Kibutsuji in the Infinity Castle arc provides the most dramatic evidence of Obanai’s changed perception. Despite his earlier animosity, Obanai actively steps in to protect Tanjiro on multiple occasions. As Muzan relentlessly attacks, severely injuring both Tanjiro and Giyu Tomioka, Obanai shields them from further harm, showcasing a newfound sense of comradeship overriding his previous dislike.
These moments are significant because they demonstrate Obanai prioritizing the collective fight and the survival of his fellow Slayers over his personal grievances. Seeing Tanjiro fight with relentless spirit, even while grievously wounded, likely earns Obanai’s respect in a way words never could. His actions speak volumes, proving that beneath his harsh exterior, he recognizes Tanjiro’s value as a comrade in arms when facing their ultimate enemy. This defense is a clear turning point in their dynamic.
Acknowledgment and Signs of Growing Respect
Beyond mere defense, concrete signs of acknowledgment and growing respect emerge during the climactic confrontation. A pivotal moment occurs after Obanai is blinded by Muzan. Rendered unable to see, his combat effectiveness plummets. It is Tanjiro who manages to get one of Yushiro’s paper talismans (used for shared vision) onto Obanai’s snake, Kaburamaru.
Crucially, Obanai accepts this help. By allowing Tanjiro’s intervention to restore his sight via Kaburamaru, Obanai implicitly acknowledges Tanjiro’s capability and resourcefulness. This act of cooperation, relying on something provided by Tanjiro to continue fighting, symbolizes a significant bridge being crossed. It represents a move away from dismissal and disdain towards mutual reliance and respect, forged in the crucible of their desperate battle against the Demon King.
FAQs About why does obanai hate tanjiro:
Why do Obanai and Sanemi hate Tanjiro initially?
Both Obanai and Sanemi initially hate Tanjiro primarily because he protects Nezuko, a demon, which violates the Demon Slayer Corps’ rules. They both share a deep-seated hatred for demons due to traumatic pasts and see Tanjiro’s actions as unforgivable insubordination and a threat to the Corps.
Is Obanai jealous of Tanjiro because of Mitsuri?
Yes, jealousy over Mitsuri Kanroji is widely considered a contributing factor to Obanai’s dislike of Tanjiro. Obanai has deep romantic feelings for Mitsuri but feels unworthy. Seeing Tanjiro’s easy friendship and interaction with Mitsuri likely triggers possessiveness and intensifies his negative feelings towards Tanjiro.
Did Obanai always hate Tanjiro?
Yes, from their very first interaction at the Hashira meeting, Obanai displayed immediate and intense hatred towards Tanjiro. His dislike was based on Tanjiro’s association with Nezuko and his perceived rule-breaking, although this hatred did eventually evolve into respect during the final battle.
Why does Obanai hate demons so much?
Obanai’s profound hatred for demons stems from his horrific childhood trauma. He was imprisoned by his family, who worshipped a serpent demon and sacrificed members to it. He bears physical and emotional scars from this experience, leading to an uncompromising hatred and distrust of all demons.
Does Obanai hate Giyu Tomioka for the same reasons he dislikes Tanjiro?
Obanai dislikes Giyu for similar reasons related to rule-breaking, but the intensity differs. He dislikes Giyu’s perceived aloofness and his willingness to vouch for Tanjiro and Nezuko, seeing it as undermining the Corps’ principles. However, his hatred for Tanjiro is more multifaceted, involving Nezuko, jealousy, and underestimation.
What specific rules did Tanjiro break that angered Obanai?
The primary rule Tanjiro broke was harboring and protecting a demon (Nezuko), which is strictly forbidden by the Demon Slayer Corps code. Obanai also viewed Tanjiro’s defense of Nezuko during the Hashira meeting and his general presence with her as acts of insubordination against Corps authority.
Did Obanai try to kill Tanjiro or Nezuko?
While Obanai vehemently argued for Nezuko’s execution and physically restrained Tanjiro during the Hashira meeting, he didn’t personally attempt to kill either of them after Kagaya Ubuyashiki granted them amnesty. His actions were initially aggressive and punishing, but he ultimately respected the leader’s decision, albeit reluctantly.
How does Obanai’s personality compare to Tanjiro’s?
Obanai and Tanjiro have starkly contrasting personalities. Obanai is harsh, cynical, strict, pessimistic, and deeply guarded due to trauma. Tanjiro is kind, optimistic, empathetic, forgiving, and fiercely protective, driven by love for his sister. This fundamental difference contributes significantly to their initial conflict.
Does Tanjiro ever confront Obanai about his attitude?
Tanjiro generally doesn’t directly confront Obanai about his hostile attitude in a combative way. Tanjiro tends to focus on his goals and proving himself through actions rather than engaging in arguments. Their relationship evolves more through shared experiences and observed actions, particularly during intense battles.
What happens between Obanai and Tanjiro at the end of the manga?
By the end of the manga, specifically during and after the final battle against Muzan, Obanai and Tanjiro develop mutual respect. Obanai defends Tanjiro, accepts his help (via Kaburamaru and Yushiro’s seal), and they fight together as comrades. Their initial hatred completely transforms into a bond forged in shared sacrifice.
Summary:
Obanai Iguro’s initial, intense hatred for Tanjiro Kamado in Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba is a complex mix driven by several powerful factors. The most significant catalysts are Tanjiro’s violation of the Demon Slayer Corps’ code by protecting his demon sister, Nezuko, and Obanai’s unwavering, rigid adherence to rules stemming from his own traumatic past and deep-seated hatred of demons. His distrust is profound, making any association with a demon unacceptable.
Furthermore, Obanai’s personal insecurities, feelings of inadequacy, and deep affection for Mitsuri Kanroji contribute significantly, manifesting as intense jealousy when Tanjiro forms a friendly bond with the Love Hashira. He also initially perceives Tanjiro as weak and unworthy, dismissing his capabilities outright. However, this hostile dynamic isn’t static. Through the crucible of shared combat, particularly the final desperate battle against Muzan, Obanai witnesses Tanjiro’s strength and unwavering spirit firsthand. This leads to a remarkable evolution, transforming his hatred into grudging respect and eventual camaraderie, highlighted by moments of defense and mutual reliance.
Ultimately, the journey from animosity to respect between Obanai and Tanjiro underscores key themes in Demon Slayer about overcoming prejudice, the complexities of trauma, and finding common ground even among those with vastly different personalities and pasts.
What are your thoughts on Obanai and Tanjiro’s relationship? Did you find Obanai’s initial hatred justified, understandable, or excessive? Share your opinions in the comments below!
