Zabimaru (Male)

The male baboon is proud and competitive but more composed than the snake attached to him. He questions Renji’s ability to use their power and initially withholds complete respect from a master he considers unprepared.

In the anime manifestation, Saru is sarcastic and domineering, while Hebi is excitable and openly insulting. Both call Renji foolish, but their criticism reflects their demand that he become strong enough to deserve Zabimaru’s full name.

In Shikai, Zabimaru becomes a segmented blade whose sections are joined by an elastic cord. Renji can extend it like a bladed whip, change its direction in mid-swing and separate damaged segments for Higa Zekkō, though the latter technique further damages the weapon.

Hihiō Zabimaru forms a massive skeletal snake controlled through Renji’s sword. This is an incomplete Bankai name given because Zabimaru had not fully acknowledged him. After Ichibē reveals its true name, Sōō Zabimaru combines the baboon and snake aspects into the powerful arms of Hihiō and the bladed Orochiō.

The manifested spirit can independently reproduce the Shikai and Bankai forms.

Zabimaru first manifests during Renji’s Bankai training, where the spirit challenges his resolve and exposes his fear of confronting Byakuya. Their relationship develops alongside Renji’s growth from an ambitious subordinate into a dependable high-ranking Shinigami.

During the anime rebellion, Saru and Hebi separate from Renji under Muramasa’s influence. Renji must overcome both manifestations and prove that he understands their shared identity.

Renji Abarai is Zabimaru’s wielder. The spirit repeatedly tests him and initially withholds its full name because it does not completely recognize his strength.

Ichibē Hyōsube reveals Zabimaru’s true Bankai name to Renji. Byakuya Kuchiki is the opponent who drives Renji’s first Bankai training, while Muramasa manipulates Saru and Hebi during the anime rebellion.