Boruto’s fear of Karma may be due to getting his own Jiraiya moment during the timeskip

The Karma seal, wielded by the Ōtsutsuki clan, was introduced to fans through the Boruto: Naruto Ne­xt Generations series. This powerful seal has caused unease and concern for the series’ protagonist, instilling a deep fear within them. This fear is likely connected to a personal and troubling past experience for the young hero.

This event shares a remarkable similarity to the famous “Jiraiya moment”in the original Naruto: Shippuden plot, in which a beloved character underwent a daunting trial.

It is possible that Boruto’s fear is rooted in a traumatic experience that deeply affected his psychological well-being, mirroring the emotional turmoil that Naruto faced when Jiraiya encountered the Nine-Tails. These significant moments share a strong connection, as the fear of a Karma user echoes the vulnerability and dread that Naruto experienced in the past.

Note: This article reflects the author’s personal opinion.

Boruto’s potential traumatic experience with his Karma

A manga panel from chapter 9 of the manga series (Image via Shueisha)
A manga panel from chapter 9 of the manga series (Image via Shueisha)

In the latest installment of Boruto, titled Two Blue Vortex, Uzumaki Boruto’s perspective on the Karma seal has significantly shifted. Previously, he had been nonchalant or even intrigued by it, but now, in contrast, the main character experiences intense fear and anxiety whenever the Karma is activated.

Fans were able to see the transformation take place when the Karma bearer confronted Kawaki in chapter 9 of the manga. As their respective Karma seals began to resonate, Boruto’s accompanying frog warned him to distance himself from Kawaki to avoid losing control. Concerned about maintaining control, the protagonist swiftly retreated from the fight.

Frog warns the protagonist to keep distance from Kawaki (Image via Shueisha)
Frog warns the protagonist to keep distance from Kawaki (Image via Shueisha)

This significant change in his actions indicates that something significant must have happened during the time gap, a situation that greatly impacted his self-assurance and faith in his ability to manage the power of the Karma seal.

During the time when Sasuke was captured and transformed into a Shinju clone, Boruto would have been left to face his opponents alone. In such a difficult situation, it is possible that Momoshiki Ōtsutsuki would have taken full control over him.

Perhaps, during a moment of desperation or despair, the Karma wielder felt compelled to unleash the full power of the seal, unintentionally causing harm or even taking the life of an innocent. This traumatic event would have deeply affected him, leaving an emotional scar on his psyche. As a result, he may see the Karma seal not as a source of strength, but rather as a dangerous and unpredictable force that could potentially consume him.

What Happened Between Naruto and Jiraiya in Naruto: Shippuden?

Boruto’s experience with the Karma seal potentially causing trauma bears a remarkable resemblance to Naruto’s “Jiraiya moment”in Naruto: Shippuden.

During the period of time that was skipped, Jiraiya, one of the three legendary Sannin, served as Naruto’s mentor. As part of his training, Jiraiya intentionally loosened the seal that contained the powerful Nine-Tailed Fox’s chakra within Naruto in order to teach the young ninja how to control its immense power. However, Naruto faced struggles as he tried to maintain his composure, and the unleashed chakra of the Nine-Tails was so overwhelming that it nearly resulted in Jiraiya’s death.

Jiraiya is badly injured after 4-tailed Naruto strikes him (Image via Studio Pierrot)
Jiraiya is badly injured after 4-tailed Naruto strikes him (Image via Studio Pierrot)

The training session resulted in disastrous consequences, causing young Naruto to be shaken by the realization of the destructive power he possessed. It served as a clear warning about the dangers of wielding power without proper control and discipline.

The powerful force he possesses could have easily slipped from his grasp, resulting in unexpected destruction. His present fear of the Karma seal is most likely a result of this traumatic experience, serving as a constant reminder that uncontrolled power can lead to severe consequences.

Final thoughts

A snapshot from the anime series (Image via Studio Pierrot)
A snapshot from the anime series (Image via Studio Pierrot)

Despite possessing the Karma seal, Uzumaki Boruto now finds himself feeling uneasy in the latest series. This newfound fear and hesitation towards using his power indicate that he has undergone a profound moment, reminiscent of Jiraiya’s own past battles. The force he once sought to harness has now become a source of disruption in his life and thoughts.

This parallel serves as a reminder to fans that while the pursuit of power may be alluring, it must always be accompanied by wisdom, self-control, and an awareness of one’s own limitations. As with Uzumaki Naruto, Boruto’s journey is sure to be filled with obstacles as he learns to harness his extraordinary abilities. The lessons he gains throughout his journey will ultimately shape him into the hero that the Naruto universe requires.

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