In the latest episode of Demon Slayer season 4, which premiered on May 19, 2024, viewers finally learned the backstory behind Giyu Tomioka’s loneliness and sadness. The episode showed the past of the Water Hashira, shedding light on his struggles and revealing his deep connection with Sabito, his childhood friend.
Sabito, initially introduced during Tanjiro’s training for the Demon Slayer Corps, was instrumental in helping Tanjiro pass the final selection exam by guiding him and teaching him sword skills.
Sabito’s return to the storyline after several seasons highlighted his impact as a character. The episode portrayed Sabito’s personality, motivations for joining the Demon Slayer Corps, and, ultimately, his tragic death.
Titled “The Sorrows of the Water Hashira, Giyu Tomioka,” the episode began with Kagaya Ubuyashiki urging Tanjiro to persuade Giyu to share his techniques with other Demon Slayers.
Tanjiro, determined to fulfill this mission, reached out to Giyu, unintentionally persisting until Giyu revealed his reluctance to mentor others due to his past failures.
Giyu then recounted his history to Tanjiro, revealing how he and Sabito lost their families to demons and trained under Sakonji Urokodaki. Despite their friendship, Sabito’s superior skills and selflessness led to his tragic death during the final selection exam, leaving Giyu deeply affected and withdrawn.
By the end of the episode, Tanjiro helped Giyu recognize Sabito’s dying wish for him to carry on the fight against demons, prompting Giyu to agree to train new recruits alongside Tanjiro for the upcoming battle.
