Upon bidding Lady Mariko's ashes farewell, fans realized the meaning behind Lady Fuji's line in the Shōgun finale. Let's find out where we've heard that line before.
CONTENT SPOILERS: This article contains spoilers for Shōgun, so proceed with caution.
John Blackthorne and Lady Fuji Bid Lady Mariko Farewell Together
When John Blackthorne wants to send Lady Mariko's ashes off to the sea as one of his final wishes, he asks for Lady Fuji's company and help with the ritual by rowing the boat with him.
What makes this finale scene interesting is that the loss of Lady Mariko, aka their translator, supposedly should have cut off Blackthorne's connection with Lord Toranaga and his allies.
However, with a few Japanese phrases that the Anjin learned from his former lover, he communicated what he wanted to do with Lady Fuji.
As Blackthorne held the prayer beads in his hands about to cast them out to sea, Lady Fuji grasped them in her hands and recited, "Let your hands be the last to hold her." What does this line mean?
READ MORE: Shōgun: Why Did Yabushige Commit Seppuku in the Series Finale? Traitor's Last Wish
Fans Explore the Meaning Behind Lady Fuji's Last Line in the Finale
Lady Mariko is more than just a translator. She possesses the strength and proficiency to deliver emotional messages in the most poetic way possible.
In this case, apart from her poetry, she knows exactly what to say in any given situation, but most especially when it comes to grieving.
Fans can lead Lady Fuji's line back to what Lady Mariko told Lady Fuji when the latter had to sacrifice her baby son.
In the same manner, Lady Fuji, despite keeping her knowledge of the Anjin and Lady Mariko's forbidden romance, wanted to reassure Blackthorne he had to let go.
The least he could do in the situation is to keep in his memories that it was his hands that held Lady Mariko last before she crossed into the afterlife. Check out some of the fan reactions below:
READ NEXT: Why Did John Blackthorne Stay in Japan in Shōgun? His Fate Explored
Meanwhile, all episodes of Shōgun are available to stream on Hulu.
Follow our official Facebook page for more news coverage and other explainer articles! Check out more right here on Epicstream.