Zoro’s Current Swords: Enma and the Path to Becoming the Strongest
In the world of One Piece, where legendary swords and their wielders shape history, few blades stand out like Enma, one of the 21 Great Grade swords. Introduced in the final saga, this powerful weapon has become a defining tool in Roronoa Zoro’s journey toward achieving his dream of becoming the strongest swordsman. Once wielded by the mighty Kozuki Oden, Enma now rests in the capable hands of Zoro, a member of the Straw Hat Pirates and a disciple of the blade. This katana, steeped in history and power, represents a critical step in Zoro's development, both as a warrior and as an individual.
Enma: A Sword of Legend
Enma holds the distinction of being the only sword to leave a scar on Kaido, the Beast. Originally forged by the legendary swordsmith Shimotsuki Kozaburo, it shares this prestigious origin with another of Zoro’s blades, Wado Ichimonji, one of the 50 Skillful Grade swords. Enma was entrusted to Zoro by Kozuki Hiyori, Oden’s daughter, as a replacement for Shusui, a national treasure of Wano Country returned to its rightful place. With its distinct ability to draw out and amplify its wielder’s Armament Haki, Enma is both a powerful and demanding weapon, requiring immense strength and will to control.
When Zoro first wielded Enma, it immediately showcased its personality by draining his Haki, leaving his arm emaciated. Yet, with just one swing, the blade cleaved an entire coastline, demonstrating the massive potential it could unlock in Zoro. This unique ability not only amplifies the user’s power but also challenges them, making Enma more than just a tool—it’s a partner in the wielder’s journey to greatness.
Zoro’s Current Swords and His Path of Growth
At present, Zoro wields three iconic blades: Wado Ichimonji, Sandai Kitetsu, and Enma. Each of these swords has its own story and significance in Zoro’s journey as a swordsman.
- Wado Ichimonji: A blade of personal importance, gifted to Zoro by his childhood friend Kuina’s family. Forged by Kozaburo, this white katana represents Zoro’s unwavering resolve to honor Kuina’s dream alongside his own.
- Sandai Kitetsu: A cursed blade acquired during the Loguetown Arc, where Zoro "tested his luck" by risking his arm. Its unpredictable nature complements Zoro’s bold fighting style.
- Enma: The most demanding of Zoro’s swords, challenging him to push beyond his limits.
These weapons align with Zoro’s unique sword style, Santoryu (Three-Sword Style), which he has honed through countless battles, from the Enies Lobby Arc to the climactic confrontation on Onigashima. Each sword plays a critical role in Zoro’s combat and character development, symbolizing his growth and determination to achieve the title of the strongest swordsman.
The Battle on Onigashima: Zoro’s Test with Enma
During the raid on Onigashima, Zoro faced King, a member of the Beasts Pirates and Kaido’s right-hand man. This battle served as a pivotal moment for Zoro, not just as a combatant but also as a wielder of Enma. The sword began to draw massive amounts of Zoro’s Haki, testing his resolve and pushing him to his limits. Initially, the blade drained him, leaving him physically and mentally strained. However, in this desperate moment, Zoro awakened his Haoshoku Haki, a trait of conquerors, proving his worthiness as Enma’s wielder.
This awakening underscored Zoro’s growth as a swordsman and highlighted the gap between his current abilities and those of legends like Dracule Mihawk, who wields the Supreme Grade sword Yoru with effortless mastery. Zoro’s realization that Oden could fight unhindered despite Enma’s immense demands motivated him to rise to the challenge, demonstrating his determination to surpass even the greatest swordsmen.
The Legacy of Enma and Its Potential as a Black Blade
Enma’s current status as a Great Grade sword holds incredible potential—it can evolve into a Supreme Grade sword, the highest rank of blades in the world of One Piece. According to Hitetsu and Kin’emon, if Zoro can continue to master Enma and imprint his will onto it, the katana may transform into a black blade, a feat achieved by only the most legendary swordsmen.
Black blades, like Mihawk’s Yoru, are shrouded in mystery and power. Forging a black blade not only signifies the pinnacle of swordsmanship but also cements the bond between the wielder and their weapon. Enma’s ability to drain and amplify Haki makes it a prime candidate for this transformation, provided Zoro continues to refine his skills and strengthen his resolve.
Enma’s Personality: A Sword That Tests Its Wielder
Through Zoro’s recollection of Shimotsuki Kozaburo’s teachings, it becomes clear that Enma possesses a unique “personality.” Kozaburo explained that swords are not inherently "demonic"; instead, their reputation is shaped by the fear of those too weak to wield them. Enma’s design pushes its wielder to their absolute limits, fulfilling its purpose of forging stronger swordsmen.
In Zoro’s hands, Enma has begun to reveal his immense potential, much as it did with Kozuki Oden. Unlike ordinary swords, Enma challenges its wielder to grow, acting as both a tool and a mentor. This dynamic relationship between Zoro and Enma mirrors his journey toward becoming the world’s strongest swordsman, a path defined by constant struggle and self-improvement.
Aesthetic and Craftsmanship: Enma’s Fierce Beauty
Enma’s design is as striking as its power. Depicted on the cover of Volume 96 of One Piece, it features a moderately curved Shobu Zukuri-style blade with a lilac and gold color scheme. Its tsuba (guard) has a trefoil shape with thick ridges and holes in each lobe, while the tsuka (handle) is lacquered in lilac and adorned with golden, five-petaled flower motifs. The blade itself has an irregular, flame-shaped hamon (tempering line), similar to the cursed Kitetsu swords, giving it a fierce and distinguished appearance.
Zoro’s Journey Toward the Strongest
From the Thriller Bark Arc, where Zoro famously endured pain for Luffy, to the battles of Wano and the final saga, Zoro has consistently demonstrated his resolve to achieve his ultimate goal. His mastery of Armament Haki, his awakening of Haoshoku Haki, and his bond with Enma are all stepping stones toward surpassing Mihawk and wielding a Supreme Grade sword with ease.
Enma represents more than just power; it is a symbol of Zoro’s commitment to his dream and the ideals of his captain, Monkey D. Luffy. As One Piece, crafted by Eiichiro Oda, approaches its climax, Zoro’s journey continues to captivate fans worldwide, reminding us that the path to greatness is one of relentless struggle, discipline, and growth.
With Enma in his grasp, Zoro is poised to not only forge a legacy of his own but also solidify his place as the greatest swordsman in history.
