Can Boruto Master Karma Already? Insights and Theories

The Future of Karma in Boruto: A Deep Dive into Fan Theories

In the realm of the Boruto: Naruto Next Generations manga, the significance of the Karma technique previously captured the attention of fans, particularly regarding its implications for the characters Boruto and Kawaki. However, its relevance has seemingly diminished in the recent Two Blue Vortex series, as the narrative has shifted focus away from this pivotal concept.

This change stems largely from Boruto’s conscious decision to refrain from utilizing his Karma seal, leading some fans to express disinterest in the technique. Despite this lull in focus, there are intriguing indications that both Boruto and Kawaki will eventually embrace their Karma powers, as hinted by a flash-forward in the storyline.

Can Boruto Harness Karma with His Jogan?

Boruto as seen in the manga (Image via Shueisha) — Boruto depicted in the manga (Image via Shueisha)

According to a popular fan theory shared by Reddit user u/Natural_Forever_1604, Boruto could potentially master his Karma seal by leveraging his dojutsu, the Jogan. Reflecting on past events in the manga, it becomes clear that the last time Boruto attempted to access his Karma, he confronted feelings of despair, echoing the ominous predictions of Momoshiki Otsutsuki, who foresaw Boruto succumbing to darkness and ceding control to him.

Fortunately, Boruto’s trajectory took a different path, thanks in large part to Sarada Uchiha’s intervention. Her Mangekyō Sharingan played a crucial role in rallying Sasuke’s support during the Omnipotence Arc, steering Boruto away from the path of hopelessness that Momoshiki had envisioned.

Momoshiki Otsutsuki as seen in the manga (Image via Shueisha) — Momoshiki Otsutsuki portrayed in the manga (Image via Shueisha)

A year following these developments, Boruto observed unsettling changes: each time he activated Karma, he felt like he was losing grip on his body to Momoshiki, leading him to abandon its use altogether. Notably, with this retreat, Momoshiki’s presence has also quieted.

The theorist, u/Natural_Forever_1604, speculates that Boruto’s anxiety could stem from his evolution toward becoming a complete Otsutsuki. Yet, they posit that his Jogan might hold the key to counteracting this shift. Evidence for this theory lies in the flash-forward scene where Boruto activates his Jogan just before the full manifestation of his Karma seal.

Jogan as seen in the anime (Image via Studio Pierrot) — The Jogan featured in the anime (Image via Studio Pierrot)

Further expanding on this theory, the user suggests that an intense battle against the character Jura might serve as the catalyst for Boruto’s resurgence. In this critical moment, Boruto could find himself pushed to his limits, prompting a desperate activation of his Karma seal and leading to the feared transformation into “Borushiki.”However, just as he teeters on the brink of despair, the awakening of his Jogan may enable him to reclaim control and fend off Momoshiki’s influence.

This notion aligns with insights from Toneri Otsutsuki, who previously advised Boruto that the Jogan would guide him through the encroaching darkness. In this context, the darkness symbolizes Momoshiki’s control, while the pivotal activation of his dojutsu may arise from Boruto’s absolute despair.