Naruto Uzumaki, the titular character of Masashi Kishimoto’s acclaimed manga and anime series “Naruto,” is known for his unyielding spirit, deep sense of empathy, and his dream of becoming Hokage, the leader of his village. Unlike many protagonists in the shonen genre, Naruto’s journey is marked by a notable aversion to killing his enemies, preferring instead to understand and redeem them. However, the question arises: who did Naruto Uzumaki actually kill throughout the series? In this article, we will explore Naruto’s battles, his philosophy on killing, and the few instances where his actions might have led to the death of others.
Naruto’s Philosophy on Killing
From the beginning of his journey, Naruto is portrayed as a character who values life and seeks to understand his adversaries rather than destroy them. This philosophy is rooted in his own experiences as an outcast, ostracized and misunderstood by his village due to the Nine-Tails Fox demon (Kurama) sealed within him. Naruto’s empathy and desire to connect with others lead him to seek peaceful resolutions, even in the most dire of circumstances.
Naruto’s aversion to killing is also influenced by his mentors, such as Jiraiya and Kakashi Hatake, and his close friends, like Sasuke Uchiha and Sakura Haruno. They help him understand the value of life and the consequences of taking it, shaping his approach to conflict and his role as a ninja.
Key Battles and Conflicts
Throughout the series, Naruto faces numerous formidable foes, each with their own motivations and backstories. His encounters with these adversaries often end in ways that emphasize his reluctance to kill and his desire to find alternative solutions.
Zabuza Momochi and Haku
One of Naruto’s earliest significant battles is against Zabuza Momochi and his accomplice, Haku. Zabuza, a rogue ninja from the Hidden Mist Village, and Haku, his devoted follower, pose a considerable threat to Naruto and his team. Despite the intense combat, Naruto’s confrontation with Haku ends tragically but not at his own hands. Haku sacrifices himself to protect Zabuza, and Zabuza ultimately dies in a final act of redemption, struck down by his own guilt and the consequences of his actions. Naruto’s role in this battle highlights his ability to evoke change in others without resorting to killing.
Gaara of the Sand
Another pivotal encounter is Naruto’s fight against Gaara, a fellow jinchuriki (a person with a tailed beast sealed within them). Gaara, consumed by his inner demon and a desire for destruction, serves as a mirror to Naruto’s own struggles. Their battle reaches a climax during the Chunin Exams, where Naruto’s determination and empathy ultimately break through to Gaara. Instead of killing Gaara, Naruto’s actions and words lead to Gaara’s transformation and eventual path to redemption, becoming an ally and friend.
Pain (Nagato)
One of the most defining moments in Naruto’s journey is his confrontation with Pain, the leader of the Akatsuki and a disciple of Jiraiya. Pain, whose real name is Nagato, seeks to impose peace through overwhelming force and suffering, driven by his tragic past. In their epic battle, Naruto faces the devastating consequences of Pain’s actions, including the destruction of his village, Konoha. Despite this, Naruto chooses to understand Nagato’s pain and offers him a chance at redemption. This decision leads to Nagato’s change of heart and his resurrection of the villagers he had killed, demonstrating Naruto’s commitment to finding non-lethal solutions even in the face of immense suffering.
Obito Uchiha
Obito Uchiha, a key antagonist in the Fourth Great Ninja War, presents another complex challenge for Naruto. Obito’s descent into darkness and his role in the war make him a formidable foe. Throughout their encounters, Naruto remains steadfast in his belief that Obito can be redeemed. In the final moments of their confrontation, it is not Naruto who delivers the killing blow but rather Obito himself, who sacrifices his life to atone for his actions and aid in the fight against Kaguya Otsutsuki.
Instances of Indirect Killing
While Naruto’s direct involvement in killing is minimal, there are instances where his actions or the outcomes of his battles indirectly lead to the deaths of others. These cases often involve enemies who refuse redemption or are casualties of the broader conflict.
Kakuzu
During the battle against Kakuzu, a member of the Akatsuki, Naruto delivers a decisive blow with his newly developed Rasenshuriken. While Kakashi ultimately delivers the killing blow to Kakuzu, Naruto’s attack significantly weakens him. This instance demonstrates Naruto’s growth as a ninja and his ability to make difficult decisions in battle, though it is Kakashi who ensures Kakuzu’s demise.
Yahiko
In the battle against the Akatsuki, specifically against Pain, Naruto learns about Yahiko, one of Nagato’s closest friends and the original leader of the Akatsuki. Yahiko’s death, while not directly caused by Naruto, is a pivotal moment that shapes Nagato’s descent into Pain. Yahiko’s story and its impact on Nagato underscore the themes of loss and redemption that pervade the series.
Madara Uchiha
Madara Uchiha, one of the most powerful antagonists in the series, meets his end during the Fourth Great Ninja War. While Naruto plays a crucial role in the battle against Madara, it is ultimately Zetsu’s betrayal and Kaguya’s intervention that lead to Madara’s demise. This complex chain of events highlights the interconnected fates of the characters and the broader consequences of their actions.
Naruto’s Influence on Redemption and Change
Throughout the series, Naruto’s approach to conflict and his ability to inspire change in others have a profound impact on his enemies and allies alike. His refusal to kill, even in the face of overwhelming odds, often leads to redemption and transformation for those he encounters.
Gaara’s Transformation
Gaara’s journey from a vengeful, isolated individual to the respected Kazekage of the Hidden Sand Village is a direct result of Naruto’s influence. Their encounter during the Chunin Exams and Naruto’s subsequent efforts to reach out to Gaara demonstrate the power of empathy and understanding in fostering change.
Nagato’s Redemption
Nagato’s shift from Pain, the harbinger of destruction, to a figure of redemption is a testament to Naruto’s impact. By understanding Nagato’s pain and offering him a chance at redemption, Naruto facilitates a significant transformation that ultimately saves countless lives.
Obito’s Atonement
Obito Uchiha’s journey from darkness to atonement is another example of Naruto’s ability to inspire change. Despite the immense suffering Obito caused, Naruto’s unwavering belief in the possibility of redemption leads to Obito’s sacrifice and his efforts to make amends.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Naruto Uzumaki’s journey in the world of “Naruto” is characterized by his remarkable commitment to finding non-lethal solutions and inspiring redemption in his enemies. While there are instances where his actions indirectly lead to the deaths of others, Naruto’s direct involvement in killing is minimal, reflecting his deep sense of empathy and his belief in the potential for change. His encounters with characters like Gaara, Nagato, and Obito highlight the transformative power of understanding and compassion, setting him apart as a unique and influential protagonist in the shonen genre. As fans continue to explore the rich and complex narrative of “Naruto,” Naruto Uzumaki’s legacy as a hero who seeks to heal rather than harm remains a central and enduring theme.