Understanding Izanagi: Why Obito Didn’t Use It Against Kaguya
Understanding Izanagi: Why Obito Didn’t Use It Against Kaguya
The Izanagi jutsu, one of the most powerful abilities of the Uchiha clan, allows users to alter reality for a brief period, negating any damage or even death. This technique has fascinated many in the realm of ninja lore, including the famous characters Obito and Kaguya. In this article, we delve into the intricacies of Izanagi, its limitations, and the strategic reasons Obito chose not to use it during a critical moment against Kaguya.
What is Izanagi?
Izanagi is a powerful Genjutsu (illusion) that allows the user to manipulate reality within a limited time frame. It requires the sacrifice of one of the Sharingan eyes, making it both a powerful and forbidden technique. The technique works by removing the boundaries between reality and illusion in the user's personal space, allowing them to control what is real and what isn't.
After activating the jutsu, any damage inflicted on the user's body vanishes, and a flawless version of them takes its place. This ability is based on the Six Paths Hermit’s Creation of All Things technique, which uses spiritual energy to create form from nothing and physical energy to bring that form to life. The Uchiha, as descendants of the Six Paths Hermit, can perform Izanagi with their Sharingan. However, the duration of the jutsu is limited by the user's power potential and the specific genetic material they use to recreate the Hermit's chakra.
The Mechanics of Izanagi
Izanagi is distinct from another powerful Uchiha technique, Izanami, which can manipulate fate itself. While Izanami can change destiny, Izanagi can only alter it temporarily. The duration of Izanagi is determined by the user's Sharingan and the genetic material used to recreate the Hermit's chakra. Danzō Shimura, for instance, received implants from both the Uchiha and Senju, allowing him to use Izanagi for up to a minute. He installed ten Sharingan in his right arm to extend this duration.
Obito’s Strategic Decision
Despite the power of Izanagi, Obito chose not to use it during his final battle with Kaguya. This decision was not made lightly, as it placed him at a significant disadvantage. Here are the reasons why:
Committed to Sacrifice: Obito had already been forced to use the Rinnegan to completely resurrect Madara, which would eventually cause his death. This act rendered Obito's remaining life force in a precarious state. Given the knowledge that he was about to die, Obito aimed to maximize the benefit of his remaining time. Strategic Advantage: The Permanent Susanoo, another powerful technique, would have provided Obito a better strategic advantage than Izanagi. The ability to summon a perfect Susanoo that could withstand Kaguya’s attacks would have been more effective in helping Naruto and Sakura save Sasuke. Passing Powers to the Protagonist: Obito’s decision to push himself to the limit and eventually pass his powers to Kakashi (the protagonist) was narratively sound. This choice ensured that Kakashi, as the main character, would be the one to face Kaguya with the full force of Obito’s abilities, thus providing the necessary attention and psychological impact.Conclusion
Obito’s decision not to use Izanagi against Kaguya was a strategic choice based on his assessment of the situation and the narrative needs of the story. His sacrifice, while tragic, ensured that the protagonist Kakashi would be the one to face the ultimate challenge, thereby making the climax of the story more impactful.