What episode is "The Judgment" in Naruto Shippuden?
"The Judgment" is episode 78 of Naruto Shippuden.
Spoiler-Safe Summary
safe readA fierce confrontation unfolds as Asuma and his team face Hidan, whose ritual creates a dangerous bond with his opponents. Quick thinking by Shikamaru leads to a strategic counter to Hidan's curse, escalating the high-stakes battle against this formidable enemy.
Full Plot Summary
spoilersAsuma's Fire Jutsu strikes Hidan, but, to his team's surprise, Asuma gets burnt as well. Hidan then reveals that he is conducting a ritual that allows him to create an empathic link between himself and the one whose blood he swallowed. Asuma rushes at Hidan but collapses after Hidan stabs himself in the leg, thereby injuring Asuma. Shikamaru realizes Hidan needs to be in the circle for his curse ritual to take effect, and so, uses his Shadow Possession Jutsu to force Hidan to step out of it. As he does so, Asuma is able to use his chakra knife to decapitate Hidan.
Episode FAQ
4 quick answersIs "The Judgment" canon or filler?
"The Judgment" is listed as canon in the current AnimeAnchor guide.
What story arc is "The Judgment" part of?
"The Judgment" is part of the Akatsuki Suppression Mission Arc.
Can I read this without spoilers?
Yes. Start with the spoiler-safe summary, then reveal the full plot only when you want the complete episode breakdown.
Series Cast
18Browse the main cast connected to this episode guide.
Kakashi Hatake main 
Naruto Uzumaki main 
Sakura Haruno main 
Sasuke Uchiha main 
Asuma Sarutobi supporting 
Boruto Uzumaki supporting 
Gaara supporting 
Hinata Hyuga supporting 
Konan supporting 
Konohamaru Sarutobi supporting Might Guy supporting Mitsuki supporting 
Sai supporting Sarada Uchiha supporting 
Shikamaru Nara supporting 
Yamato supporting 
Danzo Shimura antagonist 
Deidara antagonist Related Movies
6Franchise movie releases are kept separate from the TV episode spine.
Naruto the Movie: Ninja Clash in the Land of Snow 2004 
Naruto the Movie 2: Legend of the Stone of Gelel 2005 
Naruto the Movie 3: Guardians of the Crescent Moon Kingdom 2006 
Naruto Shippuden the Movie 2007 
Naruto Shippuden the Movie: The Bonds 2008 
Naruto Shippuden the Movie: The Will of Fire 2009