The Gotei 13, the 13 squads of the Sereitei and Soul Society, are divisions formed by Shinigami, with unique roles and specializations. They have a flower as their symbol, which is also the tattoo that appears on Captains and Lieutenants when they are authorized to break the power restrictions imposed on them in the human world.
These are led by captains, each with their own lieutenant, and ensure order and balance in Soul Society, the Human World and Hueco Mundo.
Below we'll take a look at each squad, its core members, and its roles.
1st Squadron: Command and Leadership
Flower: Chrysanthemum
Current captain: Shunsui Kyōraku.
Former Captain: Genryūsai Yamamoto, founder of the Gotei 13.
The 1st Division is the heart of the Gotei 13, headed by the Captain-Commander, who commands all divisions and relays orders from the House of 46.
Known as "The Divine Knives," they specialize in hand-to-hand combat and are a model of excellence and professionalism. Their members are capable of reacting quickly to any emergency, and are considered role models within Soul Society.
2nd Squadron: Covert Operations and Punishment
Flower: Tulip
Current Captain: Suì-Fēng.
Previous Captain: Yoruichi Shihōin.
The 2nd Division combines covert operations with punitive and security duties. It is closely linked to the Special Forces. They also master advanced speed techniques, such as Shunpo.
This has traditionally been led by leaders of the Shihōin Clan, with Yoruichi Shihōin being one of its most emblematic figures.
3rd Squadron: Intelligence and Information
Flower: Calendula
Current captain: Rōjūrō Ōtoribashi.
Previous Captain: Gin Ichimaru.
The 3rd Division specializes in collecting and classifying information crucial to Soul Society.
He also oversees the Hellmoths' messaging system and assists the 2nd Division on more serious missions.
Their work is vital to maintaining the flow of data necessary for the security and strategy of the Gotei 13.
4th Squadron: Medicine and Logistics
Flower: Lily
Current captain: Isane Kotetsu.
Previous captain: Retsu Unohana.
The 4th Division is responsible for treating the wounded and managing supplies. It also performs maintenance duties in Seireitei, including cleanup and post-battle reconstruction.
Though often underestimated, its members' healing and logistical support skills are critical to the stability and survival of Soul Society.
5th Squadron: Tactics and Kidō
Flower: Bluebell
Current captain: Shinji Hirako.
Previous captain: Sōsuke Aizen.
The 5th Division is comprised of experts in Kidō, a type of Shinigami technique, making them key players in advanced tactics, complicated missions, and protection.
In addition to these duties, its members work together with other divisions, such as the 11th and 4th, to form complete combat groups.
6th Squadron: Internal Affairs
Flower: Camellia
Current captain: Byakuya Kuchiki.
Previous captain: Ginrei Kuchiki.
The 6th Division is a model of discipline and order. It specializes in monitoring Shinigami, apprehending offenders, and maintaining internal order in Soul Society.
Commanded by members of the prestigious Kuchiki Clan, this division is recognized as a model within the Gotei 13 for its strict adherence to the rules.
7th Squadron: Seireitei-Rukongai Diplomacy
Flower: Iris
Current captain: Tetsuzaemon Iba.
Previous captain: Sajin Komamura.
The 7th Division is responsible for maintaining peace between Seireitei and Rukongai, ensuring that shinigami don't cause chaos in the areas under their jurisdiction. They also handle complaints and suggestions from the residents of Rukongai.
Its ethics, based on compassion and moral obligation, characterize its members.
8th Squadron: Reserves and Support
Flower: Bird of Paradise
Current captain: Lisa Yadōmaru.
Previous captain: Shunsui Kyōraku.
Specializing in reinforcements, the 8th Division mobilizes Shinigami based on the needs of other divisions. Its members are proficient in offensive and defensive tactics and Kidō skills, making them the first choice for dispatch in critical situations.
9th Squadron: Counter-Intelligence
Flower: Buttercup
Current captain: Kensei Muguruma.
Previous captain: Kaname Tōsen.
Known for protecting Seireitei from information leaks, this division works closely with the 12th in protecting sensitive data.
They also manage the magazine "Seireitei News Magazine", and are responsible for modifying the memories of humans after battles in the living world.
10th Squadron: Large Scale Operations
Flower: Narcissus
Current captain: Tōshirō Hitsugaya.
Previous Captain: Isshin Shiba.
He is responsible for planning and coordinating massive missions involving multiple divisions. From assigning tasks to managing reinforcements, his meticulous leadership ensures success in large-scale operations.
11th Squadron: Offensive Tactics
Flower: Yarrow
Current Captain: Kenpachi Zaraki.
Previous captain: Yachiru Unohana.
Specializing in close-quarters combat, the 11th Division is the front line of the Gotei 13.
Its members value combat above all else and consider a death in battle to be the greatest honor.
12th Squadron: Research and Development
Flower: Thistle
Current captain: Mayuri Kurotsuchi.
Previous Captain: Kisuke Urahara.
It is the center of technological and scientific innovation.
Its members collect data, develop spiritual tools, and store vital information for the Seireitei.
13th Squadron: Defensive Tactics and Protection
Flower: Spring Bell
Current captain: Rukia Kuchiki.
Previous captain: Jūshirō Ukitake.
The 13th Division guards the entrance to Soul Society and conducts regular patrols to identify threats.
In case of danger, they organize shinigami to defend the Seireitei, working together with other divisions.
Each squad, with its unique roles and exceptional leaders and members, is a vital part of the Gotei 13, serving in both the defense and balance of the worlds that make up the Bleach universe.
And just as the captains who lead each squadron have been mentioned, there are also prominent members in these, such as the lieutenants who provide support as the right-hand men of their respective captains, often succeeding them.
(I invite you to see the Bleach items on offer, here )
