The evolving relationship between Naruto Uzumaki and the Nine-Tailed Fox, Kurama, is a cornerstone of the Naruto Shippuden narrative. While the seeds of understanding are sown earlier, Naruto and Kurama truly become friends during the climax of the Fourth Shinobi World War, specifically in episode 329, “Team 7 United,” marking a pivotal moment where hostility transforms into mutual respect and, ultimately, genuine friendship.
The Long and Winding Road to Friendship
Naruto and Kurama’s journey from prisoner and jailer to allies and friends is a gradual and complex one. Initially, Kurama is depicted as a purely malevolent force, fueled by hatred and the desire for destruction, while Naruto is a victim burdened by the fox’s power, ostracized and feared by the villagers. The early interactions are antagonistic, with Kurama manipulating Naruto’s emotions and exploiting his vulnerabilities to exert control and escape his seal.
However, crucial moments throughout the series chip away at this initial dynamic.
Early Seeds of Change
Even during Naruto’s training with Jiraiya, we see glimpses of a shifting dynamic. While Kurama initially tries to corrupt Naruto, Naruto’s unwavering optimism and determination begin to subtly influence the beast. He repeatedly demonstrates his refusal to succumb to Kurama’s darkness, choosing instead to rely on his own strength and the support of his friends. This resilience plants the first seeds of respect in Kurama.
Furthermore, characters like Killer Bee, who successfully coexists with his Eight-Tails, Gyuki, provide a roadmap for Naruto, demonstrating that a harmonious relationship between a jinchuriki and a tailed beast is possible. Bee’s mentorship and guidance help Naruto understand how to tap into Kurama’s power without succumbing to its influence.
The Pain Arc: A Moment of Vulnerability
The Pain Arc, while devastating for Konoha, proves to be a turning point. When Hinata bravely confesses her love for Naruto and is brutally injured by Pain, Naruto nearly loses control and succumbs completely to Kurama. However, his father, Minato Namikaze, the Fourth Hokage, appears and reseals Kurama, preventing his full release. This encounter is crucial because Minato explains the reasoning behind sealing Kurama within Naruto, preventing the fox from blaming the boy. This intervention helps Naruto understand the complexities of the situation and mitigates his own resentment towards Kurama.
Mastering the Nine-Tails Chakra
Naruto’s arduous training to control Kurama’s chakra, guided by Killer Bee, pushes him to confront his inner demons and the hatred within Kurama directly. He ventures into his subconscious, battling Kurama for control. Ultimately, Naruto doesn’t defeat Kurama through brute force; instead, he confronts him with compassion and empathy, acknowledging Kurama’s pain and loneliness. This is a significant turning point because Naruto actively chooses to understand Kurama rather than simply suppressing him. While Naruto gains control of Kurama’s chakra, this doesn’t equate to friendship; it’s more a strategic alliance.
Episode 329: “Team 7 United” – The True Turning Point
The most significant shift occurs during the Fourth Shinobi World War. Episode 329, “Team 7 United,” showcases the culmination of Naruto’s efforts. When Obito Uchiha extracts the tailed beasts’ chakra and attempts to crush Naruto’s spirit, Kurama witnesses Naruto’s unwavering determination to protect his friends and the world.
In a pivotal scene, Kurama acknowledges Naruto’s strength and selflessness, finally recognizing him not just as a host but as a worthy ally and a true individual. Kurama declares that he will fight alongside Naruto, not because he is forced to, but because he wants to. This is the key moment where their relationship transcends mere co-existence and evolves into genuine friendship. Kurama willingly offers his chakra, and Naruto responds with trust and gratitude. They fight as a unified team, embodying the power of true partnership. This is the moment where Naruto and Kurama become friends.
This transformation is further solidified in subsequent episodes as Naruto and Kurama continue to fight together, their bond growing stronger with each challenge they overcome. They develop a deeper understanding and respect for each other, culminating in a relationship of mutual trust and camaraderie.
FAQs: Deep Diving into Naruto and Kurama’s Friendship
Here are some frequently asked questions about Naruto and Kurama’s bond, addressing key turning points and nuances in their relationship:
Q1: Was Naruto and Kurama’s relationship always antagonistic?
No, while their initial interactions were hostile, the series progressively showcases moments where Naruto’s resilience and compassion began to subtly influence Kurama. The Pain Arc and Naruto’s training with Killer Bee marked significant shifts in their dynamic.
Q2: Did Naruto ever hate Kurama?
Yes, in his early years, Naruto harbored resentment towards Kurama for the isolation and hardship he endured because of the fox’s presence. However, he later understood the circumstances surrounding Kurama’s sealing and his father’s role, mitigating his hatred.
Q3: What role did Killer Bee play in their relationship?
Killer Bee served as a mentor, demonstrating that a harmonious relationship between a jinchuriki and a tailed beast was possible. He taught Naruto how to access Kurama’s power and control it without being consumed by the fox’s negative emotions.
Q4: Why did Kurama initially hate humans?
Kurama’s hatred stemmed from the mistreatment and exploitation he and the other tailed beasts faced at the hands of humans, particularly Madara Uchiha. He was often used as a weapon and never treated with respect.
Q5: What was the significance of Naruto entering his subconscious to confront Kurama?
This event was crucial because it allowed Naruto to directly address Kurama’s hatred and pain. By acknowledging Kurama’s suffering and offering empathy, Naruto began to break down the walls of resentment that separated them.
Q6: How did the Fourth Shinobi World War contribute to their friendship?
The war forced Naruto and Kurama to fight together against a common enemy, strengthening their bond and fostering mutual respect. Kurama witnessed Naruto’s unwavering dedication to protecting his friends, ultimately changing his perception of humans.
Q7: Was episode 329 the first time Kurama actively helped Naruto?
No, Kurama provided Naruto with chakra on several occasions prior to episode 329. However, those instances were often driven by Kurama’s desire for self-preservation or manipulation. Episode 329 marks the first time Kurama genuinely chooses to help Naruto based on a change in his own perspective and heart.
Q8: Did mastering Sage Mode or Tailed Beast Mode influence their friendship?
Yes, achieving Tailed Beast Mode, which required a level of cooperation between Naruto and Kurama, was a significant step toward their friendship. Sage Mode, while not directly linked to Kurama, enhanced Naruto’s overall strength and understanding, which indirectly helped him connect with Kurama.
Q9: Did other characters influence Kurama’s change of heart?
Indirectly, yes. Naruto’s connections with characters like Iruka, Kakashi, and his parents showcased the power of human connection and dispelled Kurama’s preconceived notions about humans.
Q10: What happens to their relationship after the war?
Following the war, Naruto and Kurama’s bond deepens further. They become true partners, fighting side-by-side to protect the world. Kurama becomes a trusted advisor and friend, often offering Naruto guidance and support.
Q11: Is their friendship fully explored in Boruto: Naruto Next Generations?
While their friendship is established in Naruto Shippuden, Boruto touches upon it, showcasing their continued partnership and the seamless way they work together. Kurama’s ultimate sacrifice in Boruto further underscores the depth of their bond.
Q12: How did Kurama’s sacrifice in Boruto impact Naruto?
Kurama’s sacrifice to use Baryon Mode in Boruto was a devastating loss for Naruto. It highlighted the ultimate depth of their friendship and demonstrated Kurama’s unwavering loyalty to Naruto and his commitment to protecting the world. It proved that Kurama was willing to give his life for his friend, solidifying their bond as one of the most powerful and enduring relationships in anime history.