Understanding Tessai’s Role as a Soul Reaper in Bleach: An Explanation

Tessai Tsukabishi, a former captain of the Kido Corps from the renowned anime Bleach, is a Shinigami, commonly referred to as a Soul Reaper. His expertise in Kido—the art of spells—equips him with an impressive repertoire of advanced and even forbidden techniques, positioning him as one of the premier Kido users within the Soul Society.

Even though he is no longer affiliated with the Gotei 13, Tessai played a vital role in significant occurrences, such as the Hollowfication crisis. His formidable powers and high-level abilities indicate that he remains a Soul Reaper, despite residing in the Human World under unique circumstances.

Delving into Tessai Tsukabishi’s Backstory in Bleach

Tessai Tsukabishi (Image via Studio Pierrot)

As a Shinigami and former captain, Tessai is renowned for his mastery of Kido and his understanding of forbidden techniques, which shaped his prior role within the Soul Society.

He had previously served as the captain of the Kido Corps and shared a close bond with Kisuke Urahara and Yoruichi Shihoin. Over a century ago, Tessai actively participated in the probe into the disappearance of Kensei Muguruma and his squad members. However, he opted to enable Shunsui Kyoraku’s lieutenant, Lisa Yadomaru, to take over his assigned mission.

Noticing irregularities, Tessai joined Urahara on a covert investigation, which led to a confrontation with Sosuke Aizen after discovering his role in the Hollowfication of several Shinigami.

During this clash, Tessai showcased his advanced Kido abilities, utilizing Hado #88 Hiryu Gekizoku Shinten Raiho, only to find his spell thwarted by Aizen—who employed Bakudo #81, Danku, without any incantation. Despite their efforts, Aizen and his allies managed to flee while Tessai redirected his attention to rescuing the injured Shinigami.

Kisuke Urahara (Image via Studio Pierrot)

Employing forbidden Kido techniques—Jikanteishi and Kukanten’i—he successfully transported the victims to the 12th Division headquarters. Here, Urahara attempted to reverse the effects of Hollowfication using the Hogyoku, but the endeavor ultimately failed.

The subsequent day, Aizen framed both Tessai and Urahara, resulting in their harsh sentencing by Central 46. Tessai was condemned to a life imprisonment for employing forbidden Kido practices. Fortunately, Yoruichi intervened, facilitating their escape to the Human World with the help of prototype Gigai designed to suppress their Reiatsu. Now, Tessai lives in seclusion with Urahara, operating in his shop.

Powers and Abilities of Tessai Tsukabishi in Bleach

The original Gotei 13 (Image via Studio Pierrot)

Tessai Tsukabishi stands as one of the foremost Kido masters. Though he no longer serves within the Gotei 13, his Shinigami powers and skills remain prodigious. His command over Kido is remarkable, as he can execute high-level spells, including Bakudo #99 and Hado #88, without incantations. His Hado attack caused substantial devastation, even when partially mitigated by Aizen’s defensive Kido.

Additionally, Tessai possesses insights into forbidden Kido techniques, which allow him to manipulate both time and space. This expertise enabled him to teleport the Visored to Urahara’s laboratory and halt Hollowfication by freezing time. His proficiency in healing Kido has been essential in aiding Ichigo and his companions after their battles.

Not only is Tessai highly intelligent and well-versed in spiritual energy, but he also possesses extensive knowledge of the Soul Society’s history, including significant events like the downfall of the Quincies. His perceptive nature is highlighted by his ability to foresee Urahara’s plans.

While he primarily focuses on Kido, Tessai showcases proficiency in Hakuda, or hand-to-hand combat, able to crush a Hollow’s skull with a single strike using his technique known as Tessho. His considerable physical strength and resilience further augment his combat capabilities, as he has demonstrated the capacity to withstand severe attacks and respond nonchalantly even when struck by Rukia or Ichigo.

The details of Tessai’s Zanpakuto, including both its Shikai and Bankai forms, remain undisclosed. Nevertheless, his overwhelming spiritual power affirms his identity as a Shinigami, rendering him a significant force despite his current passive role.

Conclusion

Yoruichi, Tessai, and Urahara as shown in the Bleach anime (Image via Studio Pierrot)

Though Tessai Tsukabishi lives in exile, his remarkable abilities, knowledge of forbidden Kido techniques, and substantial spiritual strength underscore his lasting impact on the history of the Soul Society and solidify his status as a powerful Soul Reaper.

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