Kabuto Yakushi, a character whose machinations ripple throughout Naruto’s narrative, doesn’t actually die in Naruto Shippuden. While seemingly defeated, he undergoes a transformative experience. The episode where the apparent defeat and subsequent rehabilitation of Kabuto Yakushi occurs is Naruto Shippuden Episode 338, “Izanami Activated.”
The Turning Point: Episode 338 and Izanami’s Influence
Unraveling Kabuto’s Descent
Kabuto’s journey in Naruto is marked by a relentless pursuit of power and a deep-seated identity crisis. He starts as a loyal subordinate of Orochimaru, mirroring his mentor’s thirst for immortality and forbidden knowledge. He later absorbs Orochimaru’s power and strives to surpass him, even experimenting on himself and others to achieve greater strength. This pursuit leads him down a dark path, culminating in his adoption of a Serpent Sage Mode, making him a formidable adversary. His motivations, however, stem from a desire to find his place in the world and escape the shadow of his past.
Itachi’s Intervention: The Power of Izanami
During the Fourth Shinobi World War, Kabuto plays a crucial role, reanimating powerful deceased shinobi to fight against the Allied Shinobi Forces. This act makes him a primary target. Itachi Uchiha, reanimated himself through Kabuto’s Edo Tensei, teams up with Sasuke to stop Kabuto and end his reign of terror. The battle culminates in the activation of Izanami, a forbidden Uchiha technique designed to trap the opponent in an endless loop until they accept their true self. This isn’t a technique designed for killing; it’s for forcing reflection and change.
A New Beginning: Kabuto’s Transformation
Izanami forces Kabuto to confront his actions and the emptiness that fuels his ambition. He relives his past mistakes and the pain he inflicted on others. This experience allows him to understand the futility of his pursuit of power and the importance of forging his own identity, rather than simply emulating Orochimaru. While unconscious, under the influence of Izanami, he experiences a profound change. The technique forces Kabuto to recognize and accept his flaws, leading to a path of redemption.
FAQs: Delving Deeper into Kabuto’s Fate
Here are some frequently asked questions concerning the details of Kabuto’s journey and fate in Naruto Shippuden:
FAQ 1: Why doesn’t Itachi simply kill Kabuto?
Itachi’s goal isn’t to kill Kabuto but to stop the Edo Tensei and end the war. Killing Kabuto wouldn’t necessarily stop the reanimation jutsu if he had a contingency plan. Furthermore, Itachi believes in giving people a chance to change, evident in his decision to spare Sasuke years prior. Izanami offers Kabuto a chance for redemption, a possibility Itachi believes is worth pursuing. It’s important to remember that Itachi, even in his reanimated state, is trying to minimize casualties and end the conflict swiftly.
FAQ 2: What happens to the reanimated shinobi after Kabuto is defeated?
When Kabuto falls under the influence of Izanami and the Edo Tensei jutsu is released, the reanimated souls are finally able to pass on to the afterlife. This includes powerful figures like Madara Uchiha (eventually circumvented by Madara’s own plans), Nagato, and Itachi himself. This provides a sense of closure for many characters and allows them to find peace.
FAQ 3: Does Kabuto retain his Serpent Sage Mode after being freed from Izanami?
Yes, Kabuto retains his Serpent Sage Mode after being freed from Izanami. However, his perspective on using it changes. He no longer seeks to exploit it for personal gain or power. Instead, he begins to use his abilities for the benefit of others.
FAQ 4: What does Kabuto do after the Fourth Shinobi World War?
After the war, Kabuto returns to the Konoha Orphanage, the same place where he grew up. He takes on the role of caretaker and mentor to the children, dedicating himself to helping them find their place in the world, preventing them from walking the same path he once did. He essentially becomes the new director, offering the children a stable and nurturing environment.
FAQ 5: Is Kabuto ever forgiven for his actions during the war?
Forgiveness is complex, and not everyone readily accepts Kabuto’s change. However, his genuine remorse and dedication to helping others gradually earn him the trust of some, including Naruto himself. He demonstrates genuine contrition, and his actions speak louder than words. While some may always harbor reservations, his sincere efforts are recognized.
FAQ 6: How does Kabuto’s relationship with Orochimaru evolve after his transformation?
After the war, Kabuto and Orochimaru maintain a distant but somewhat understanding relationship. Orochimaru, having also undergone a shift in perspective, observes Kabuto’s efforts with interest. While they are not exactly friends, there is a silent acknowledgment of their shared past and the changes they both underwent. Orochimaru trusts Kabuto enough to allow him to manage the orphanage.
FAQ 7: Does Kabuto ever interact with Sasuke after the war?
There isn’t significant interaction depicted between Kabuto and Sasuke directly after the war. Sasuke’s focus is primarily on atonement for his own actions. However, given Sasuke’s eventual return to Konoha and Kabuto’s position at the orphanage, indirect interactions or at least an understanding of each other’s path towards redemption is implied. They both share a connection through Itachi and the war.
FAQ 8: Is Izanami a forbidden jutsu for a reason?
Yes, Izanami is a forbidden jutsu because it requires the user to sacrifice the vision of one eye. Furthermore, the technique is incredibly powerful and can potentially trap the target indefinitely. The Uchiha clan deemed it a last resort measure due to its inherent risks and the potential for abuse.
FAQ 9: Could Izanami have been used on other villains in Naruto?
Potentially, but its effectiveness depended on the individual. Izanami works by forcing the target to confront their true self and acknowledge their flaws. If a villain was completely devoid of remorse or self-awareness, Izanami might not have the same transformative effect. The individual must have some capacity for introspection for the technique to work.
FAQ 10: Does Kabuto have any biological connections to any main characters in Naruto?
While not a blood relative, Kabuto’s life is intertwined with many main characters. He was raised alongside orphans who were later experimented on, and he served as a key figure in Orochimaru’s schemes. His actions directly impacted the lives of Naruto, Sasuke, Itachi, and many others throughout the series. His past plays an integral part in the overall narrative.
FAQ 11: How does Kabuto contribute to the Boruto series?
Kabuto makes cameo appearances in the Boruto series, continuing his role as the head of the Konoha Orphanage. He is seen caring for and mentoring the children, demonstrating his continued dedication to his new path. His presence serves as a reminder of the possibility of redemption and the long-lasting impact of the Fourth Shinobi World War.
FAQ 12: What is the significance of Kabuto’s character arc in the Naruto narrative?
Kabuto’s character arc is significant because it showcases the potential for redemption even for those who have committed terrible acts. His journey from a manipulative villain to a dedicated caretaker highlights the themes of forgiveness, self-discovery, and the importance of finding one’s true purpose in life. It adds a layer of complexity to the series’ exploration of morality and the consequences of one’s choices. He is a symbol that even someone seemingly irredeemable can find a path to a better future.