The Mind-Blowing Secret Behind Naruto's Hand Signs
Unpacking the Controversial Concept of Naruto's Combined Hand Signs: A critical analysis of the flashy technique and its incongruous elements within the series
Hand signs are a crucial aspect of the Naruto franchise, deeply ingrained in the very essence of ninjutsu. While the iconic hand signs used by shinobi to cast jutsu are widely recognized, there are a few lesser-known hand seals that have been overlooked. The concept of one-handed hand signs has been firmly established, implying that shinobi are capable of performing techniques with a single hand. However, the series has also introduced a new form of hand signs that requires two shinobi to combine their hands in order to cast jutsu.
These combined hand signs are consistent with the principles of chakra and ninjutsu, as they involve molding chakra in a similar manner to regular hand seals. However, the issue with this technique lies in the circumstances under which it has been employed. While using combined hand signs voluntarily is one thing, the idea of a shinobi manipulating their opponent's hands to perform hand signs is somewhat ludicrous. Although combined hand signs could potentially have a place within the shinobi system, the way they are depicted in the series detracts from their credibility.
Instances of Combined Hand Signs
Combined hand signs were a rare occurrence in the Naruto series, similar to the infrequent use of one-handed hand signs. Out of the handful of times they were seen, only two instances were considered canon. The first was during the Chunin Exams in the Forest of Death, where Anko and Orochimaru attempted to kill each other using combined hand signs. After their initial appearance in part 1 of Naruto, combined hand signs became more of a myth than a reality until they resurfaced during the Great War arc, specifically during Kakashi and Obito's fight. The end of the series also showcased the use of combined hand signs during Sasuke and Naruto's epic battle, but these scenes were non-canon and only present in the anime adaptation for aesthetics. The only other canon instance of combined hand signs was at the conclusion of the show when Naruto and Sasuke joined hands to undo the Infinite Tsukuyomi.
The Problem With Combined Hand Signs
The use of combined hand signs in Naruto can be seen as inconsistent, as its application within the series often involves manipulation and control between opposing sides. While the idea of using combined hand signs between allies has potential, the way it has been portrayed in the series raises questions about the agency and strength of certain characters. For example, scenes where Obito and Sasuke forcefully control Kakashi and Naruto's hands to cast jutsu undermines their abilities as skilled and powerful shinobi, creating a confusing and illogical narrative.
The Symbolism Behind Combined Hand Signs
Some might argue that the ability to cast hand signs is merely muscle memory for shinobi, and that their hands move involuntarily due to the fast-paced nature of the technique. However, forcing someone else to perform hand signs could be seen as a display of skill and strength on the part of Sasuke and Obito, but this interpretation would only serve to portray Naruto and Kakashi as weak and incompetent shinobi.
The power of combined hand signs goes beyond just their physical movements. These intricate gestures hold symbolic meaning, representing the unity and cooperation necessary to achieve a common goal. The scene where Sasuke and Naruto join forces to break the spell of the Infinite Tsukuyomi perfectly captures this sentiment, marking the end of their bitter rivalry and the beginning of a new era of collaboration.
The portrayal of Sasuke and Obito as self-serving shinobi in the previous two instances of combined hand signs completely undermines the symbolism of peace and collaboration achieved at the end. It contradicts the idea of using the hand signs for cooperation and instead presents them as a tool for manipulation and coercion. This not only damages the characters of Sasuke and Obito but also ruins the potential of the concept of combined hand signs in the Naruto series. Despite its interesting premise, the execution falls short and ultimately fails to deliver on its promise.
