In the world of Naruto, there isn't a singular "forbidden jutsu." Instead, "forbidden jutsu" (also known as Kinjutsu) refers to a category of special techniques that pose a great threat once used, either to the world or to the user themselves. These techniques are deemed too dangerous for general use and are often sealed away or their teaching is strictly prohibited.
Forbidden Jutsu encompass a wide variety of techniques and can belong to any of the primary ninja arts: ninjutsu, genjutsu, and even taijutsu. Their classification as "forbidden" typically stems from one of three core reasons:
- Inflicting great harm on the user: Many forbidden jutsu cause severe, often irreversible, damage to the shinobi who uses them, ranging from chakra exhaustion to permanent physical injury or even death.
- Causing widespread damage or chaos: These techniques possess destructive potential that could devastate battlefields, villages, or even entire regions.
- Violating fundamental natural laws or ethics: Some forbidden jutsu manipulate life and death, consciousness, or other sacred principles, making them morally questionable and dangerous.
Characteristics of Forbidden Jutsu
Forbidden jutsu are not merely powerful; they are specifically dangerous, requiring extreme caution or outright prohibition. Here are some common characteristics:
- High Risk-High Reward: While incredibly potent, their use almost always comes with significant drawbacks or costs.
- Ethical Implications: Many cross moral boundaries, such as manipulating the souls of the dead or forcing self-sacrifice.
- Rarity and Secrecy: Knowledge of these techniques is often restricted to a select few, and their scrolls are typically hidden or guarded.
- Historical Impact: Forbidden jutsu have frequently played pivotal roles in major conflicts and wars throughout shinobi history, often leading to tragic outcomes.
Notable Examples of Forbidden Jutsu
The Naruto series features numerous forbidden jutsu, each with its unique dangers and applications. Here are a few prominent examples that illustrate their diverse nature:
| Jutsu Name | Type | Primary Reason for being Forbidden | Notable Users |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reanimation Jutsu (Edo Tensei) | Ninjutsu | Violates natural laws (reviving the dead), used for mass destruction/warfare | Tobirama Senju, Orochimaru, Kabuto Yakushi |
| Eight Gates | Taijutsu | Inflicts severe, often fatal, physical damage on the user | Might Guy, Rock Lee, Might Duy |
| Multiple Shadow Clone Jutsu (Kage Bunshin no Jutsu) | Ninjutsu | Extreme chakra drain, potentially fatal if overused by an average shinobi | Naruto Uzumaki, Kakashi Hatake |
| Twin Snakes Mutual Death (Sōshasōsai no Jutsu) | Genjutsu | Results in the mutual death of both the user and the target | Anko Mitarashi, Orochimaru |
| Creation Rebirth (Sōzō Saisei) | Ninjutsu | Greatly shortens the user's lifespan due to rapid cell regeneration | Tsunade |
These examples highlight that a jutsu can be forbidden not just for its destructive power, but also for its profound impact on the user's body or its ethical implications within the shinobi world.
