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{{translation|'''Chakra'''|チャクラ|chakura}} is essential to even the most basic technique; it is the moulding of the {{translation|physical energy|身体エネルギー|shintai enerugī}} present in every cell of the body and the {{translation|spiritual energy|精神エネルギー|seishin enerugī}} gained from the mind. Once moulded, it can be channelled through the chakra circulatory system, which is to chakra as the regular circulatory system is to blood, to any of the 361 chakra points (called [[tenketsu]]) in the body. Through various methods, the most common of which is [[hand seals]], the chakra can then be controlled and manipulated to create an effect that would not be possible otherwise, such as [[Water Surface Walking Practice|walking on water]], [[Fire Release|exhaling fire]] or [[Genjutsu|creating illusions]].
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{{translation|'''Chakra'''|チャクラ|chakura}} is essential to even the most basic technique; it is the moulding of the {{translation|physical energy|身体エネルギー|shintai enerugī}} present in every cell of the body and the {{translation|spiritual energy|精神エネルギー|seishin enerugī|engtv=Mental Energy}} gained from the mind. Once moulded, it can be channelled through the [[chakra pathway system]], which is to chakra as the circulatory system is to blood, to any of the 361 [[tenketsu]] in the body. Through various methods, the most common of which is [[hand seals]], the chakra can then be controlled and manipulated to create an effect that would not be possible otherwise, such as [[Water Surface Walking Practice|walking on water]], [[Fire Release|exhaling fire]] or [[Genjutsu|creating illusions]].
   
By moulding different ratios of the two energies, new colours and much stronger types of chakra can be formed. Most ninja have a natural affinity to one type of chakra, but they have the capacity to create elemental chakra apart from their own affinity. There are five basic types, each stronger and weaker to another, but their relations, weaknesses, and strengths to each other are all explored. There is also the dealing of Yin and Yang and the balance of mental and physical energies. In addition to these five elements, certain [[kekkei genkai]] can [[Nature Transformation|mix elemental chakra]] to form new natures, for example it is possible to mix [[water]] and [[wind]] into [[ice]]. While many ninja can use more than one type of chakra, very few are able to use them simultaneously.
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Through the process of [[nature transformation]], chakra can be converted into a number of different natures. Most ninja have a natural affinity to one chakra nature, but they have the capacity to use natures apart from their own affinity. There are five basic natures, but in addition to these, certain genetic traits allow multiple natures to be combined into new natures; for example, it is possible to mix [[Water]] and [[Wind]] into [[Ice]]. While many ninja can use more than one chakra nature, very few are able to combine them in this manner.
 
Chakra also seems to reflect its owner's personality, as [[Karin]] noted Sasuke's chakra has grown darker when he fell victim to the [[Curse of Hatred]] even more after seeing [[Danzō]], while she describe Naruto's as bright and warm.
 
   
 
== Origin ==
 
== Origin ==
According to [[Madara Uchiha]], chakra was originally something that belonged to the [[Shinju]]. When the princess [[Kaguya Ōtsutsuki]] ate the fruit the Shinju bore, she became the first person in history to wield chakra. With her new power she ended the wars that plagued the lands. Her sons, [[Hamura]] and [[Hagoromo Ōtsutsuki]], the latter of whom would become the man known as the Sage of the Six Paths, were the first people to be born with chakra.<ref>''Naruto'' chapter 646, pages 6-9</ref> It was Hagoromo who spread chakra to others, intending for the chakra to connect people's spiritual energy so that they would understand one another without even talking. This became known as {{translation|Ninshū|忍宗|lit meaning=Shinobi Sect}}, with his goal being to lead the world toward peace. However, the people did not use it in the way the Sage had hoped, instead using the chakra to connect their inner spiritual and physical energies. They kneaded their inner chakra to amplify and weaponize it, becoming what is now known as ninjutsu. In the end, they ended up using their chakra in battle, just as Hagoromo's mother Kaguya did.<ref>''Naruto'' chapter 665, pages 6-7</ref>
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Chakra was originally something that belonged to the [[Shinju]]. When Princess [[Kaguya Ōtsutsuki]] ate the fruit the Shinju bore, she became the first person in history to wield chakra. With her newfound power, she ended all the wars that plagued the lands. Her sons, [[Hamura]] and [[Hagoromo Ōtsutsuki]], the latter of whom would become the man known as the Sage of the Six Paths, were the first people to be born with chakra.<ref>''Naruto'' chapter 646, pages 6-9</ref> It was Hagoromo who spread chakra to others, intending for the chakra to connect people's spiritual energy so that they would understand one another without even talking. This became known as {{translation|[[ninshū]]|忍宗|lit meaning=Shinobi Sect}}, with his goal being to lead the world toward peace. However, the people did not use chakra in the way the Sage had hoped, instead using it to connect their inner spiritual and physical energies. They kneaded their inner chakra to amplify and weaponise it, creating what is now known as [[ninjutsu]]. In the end, they ended up using their chakra in battle, just as Hagoromo's mother Kaguya did.<ref>''Naruto'' chapter 665, pages 6-7</ref>
   
== Normal Chakra ==
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== Overview ==
[[File:Chakra Moulding Diagram (Normal).svg|thumb|The two main elements of Normal Chakra, Spiritual Energy and Physical Energy.]]
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[[File:Chakra Moulding Diagram (Normal).svg|thumb|The two components of chakra: physical energy and spiritual energy.]]
After [[Hagoromo Ōtsutsuki]] spread his chakra, it has become since a form of life energy that all living individuals produce to some degree. Contained in the "chakra coils" that mainly surround and connect to each chakra-producing organ, the energy circulates throughout the body in a network called the "[[Chakra Pathway System|chakra circulatory system]]" (similar to the cardiovascular system). Certain groups, such as ninja, have learned to generate more chakra and release it outside their bodies through their "chakra points" ([[tenketsu]]) in order to perform special techniques ([[jutsu]]). Chakra is not normally visible to the human eye, though chakra can be seen in situations where a person releases as much of their chakra as possible. This is rarely seen due to the restrictions of certain chakra points ([[Eight Gates]]), limiting the amount of chakra an individual can release at a single given time. Chakra can also be visible when doing specific techniques (such as the [[Rasengan]]) which take an even high degree of chakra control/manipulation to perform.
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Since being spread by the Sage of the Six Paths, chakra has become a form of life energy that all living individuals produce to some degree and require to survive. Produced within the "chakra coils" that mainly surround and connect to each chakra-producing organ, the energy circulates throughout the body in a network called the "[[Chakra Pathway System]]", which is similar to the cardiovascular system. Certain groups, such as [[shinobi]], have learned to generate more chakra and release it outside their bodies through pressure points called [[tenketsu]] in order to perform [[jutsu]]. Chakra is not normally visible to the human eye, though it can be seen in situations where a person releases as much of their chakra as possible. This is rarely seen due to the restrictions of eight specific tenketsu known as the [[Eight Gates]], which limit the amount of chakra an individual can release at a single given time. Chakra can also be visible when performing certain techniques, such as the [[Rasengan]].
   
Of the many different types of techniques, [[ninjutsu]], [[genjutsu]], [[dōjutsu]], and so on, all require the use of chakra. However, [[taijutsu]] is different, usually requiring no chakra use whatsoever; stamina is all that is needed. While the ninja still needs a set amount of chakra to live (i.e. life force energy), regular taijutsu doesn't require any active moulding or manipulation of chakra (with few exceptions). A standard attack like a punch or kick falls into this technique category.
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Of the many different types of techniques, [[ninjutsu]], [[genjutsu]], [[dōjutsu]], and so on, all require the use of chakra. However, [[taijutsu]] is different, usually requiring no chakra use whatsoever; stamina is all that is needed. While the ninja still needs a set amount of chakra to live, regular taijutsu doesn't require any active moulding or manipulation of chakra, with few exceptions. A standard attack like a punch or kick falls into this technique category.
   
Chakra is the resulting form of energy when two other forms of energy are mixed together. The two energies are referred to as "physical energy" and "spiritual energy". Physical energy is collected from the body's cells and can be increased through training, stimulants, and exercise. Spiritual energy is derived from the mind's consciousness and can be increased through studying, meditation, and experience. Having these two energies become more powerful will in-turn make the created chakra more powerful. Therefore, practising a technique repeatedly will build-up experience, building up one's spiritual energy, and thus allowing more chakra to be created. As a result, the ninja is able to do that same technique with more power. This same cycle applies for physical energy except the ninja needs to increase their endurance instead.
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Chakra is created when two other forms of energy, known collectively as one's stamina, are moulded together. {{translation|Physical energy|身体エネルギー|shintai enerugī}} is collected from each and every one of the body's cells and can be increased through training, stimulants, and exercise. {{translation|Spiritual energy|精神エネルギー|seishin enerugī|engtv=Mental Energy}} is derived from the mind's consciousness and can be increased through studying, meditation, and experience. These two energies becoming more powerful will in turn make the created chakra more powerful. Therefore, practising a technique repeatedly will build up experience, increasing one's spiritual energy, and thus allowing more chakra to be created. As a result, the ninja is able to do that same technique with more power. This same cycle applies for physical energy, except the ninja needs to increase their endurance instead.
   
The general term for the source of chakra, the overall physical and spiritual energy an individual has, is called "''total stamina''". The maximum amount of chakra an individual can create and retain at a given time is called their "''chakra power-level''".
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The general term for the source of chakra, the overall physical and spiritual energy an individual has, is called their "''total stamina''". The maximum amount of chakra an individual can create and retain at a given time is called their "''chakra power-level''".
   
Chakra signatures can be altered by absorbing DNA from multiple people as seen in [[Kabuto Yakushi]]'s. By mixing various chakra signatures together, it became a whole new one, so that not even [[Karin|sensors]] who are [[Mind's Eye of the Kagura|familiar]] with him can recognise him by his chakra.<ref>''Naruto'' chapter 667, page 2</ref>
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Each person's chakra is different and as such gives off a unique chakra signature, which [[sensor type]] ninja are able to [[Sensing|detect]]. One's chakra signature can be altered by absorbing DNA from multiple people, as seen in [[Kabuto Yakushi]]'s case. By mixing various chakra signatures together, it became a whole new one, so that not even [[Karin|a sensor type]] who was already familiar with him could recognise him by his chakra.<ref>''Naruto'' chapter 667, page 2</ref>
   
 
== Chakra Control ==
 
== Chakra Control ==
 
{{translation|'''Chakra Control'''|チャクラコントロール |chakura kontorōru}} is a term that refers to the control of one's chakra and aptitude at controlling it. In ''Naruto'', chakra takes time and a great deal of training to gradually build up. Thus, the key is not actually having chakra, but being able to sufficiently control and conserve it. Everyone has chakra, but only skilled ninja can correctly "mould" and "manipulate" it to its fullest extent.
 
{{translation|'''Chakra Control'''|チャクラコントロール |chakura kontorōru}} is a term that refers to the control of one's chakra and aptitude at controlling it. In ''Naruto'', chakra takes time and a great deal of training to gradually build up. Thus, the key is not actually having chakra, but being able to sufficiently control and conserve it. Everyone has chakra, but only skilled ninja can correctly "mould" and "manipulate" it to its fullest extent.
   
Moulding chakra involves the extraction of physical energy from the body's cells and spiritual energy from the mind's consciousness, and then mixing them together within the individual. The amount of each energy will differ based on the type of technique the ninja wishes to execute. In other words, a ninja could create too much or too little chakra for a given technique, resulting in the chakra being used inefficiently. In addition, even if a ninja is able to mould the correct amount of chakra, if they cannot manipulate the chakra properly, the desired technique will not be as effective or will not execute at all. Wasting energy will also create weaknesses like early exhaustion, which would hinder the ninja's capacity to fight long-term battles. General training methods for improving one's moulding and manipulation of chakra are the [[Leaf Concentration Practice|Leaf Concentration]], [[Tree Climbing Practice|Tree Climbing]], and [[Water Surface Walking Practice|Water Walking]] exercises.
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Moulding chakra involves the extraction of physical energy from the body's cells and spiritual energy from the mind's consciousness, and then mixing them together within the body. In other words, a ninja could create too much or too little chakra for a given technique, resulting in the chakra being used inefficiently. In addition, even if a ninja is able to mould the correct amount of chakra, if they cannot manipulate the chakra properly, the desired technique will not be as effective or will not execute at all. Wasting stamina and chakra will also create weaknesses like early exhaustion, which would hinder the ninja's capacity to fight long-term battles. General training methods for improving one's moulding and manipulation of chakra are the [[Leaf Concentration Practice|Leaf Concentration]], [[Tree Climbing Practice|Tree Climbing]], and [[Water Surface Walking Practice|Water Surface Walking]] exercises.
 
As an in-between stage, some ninja can partially manipulate their chakra. This means they can use their chakra, but not effectively control it, which results in a poorly executed technique, a prime example is Naruto trying to use the Academy Clone Technique. To manipulate their chakra more easily, [[hand seals]] can be used. With these hand seals, users can control their chakra with higher efficiency, allowing them to execute their techniques more effectively. Different techniques also require the use of different hand seals.
 
 
When creating a ninjutsu, the two methods of manipulating chakra are referred to as [[Shape Transformation]] and [[Nature Transformation]]:
 
* Shape Transformation deals with controlling the form, movement, and potency of chakra.
 
* Nature Transformation usually deals with changing the physical properties of chakra into an element. There is also the Nature Transformation of [[Yin Release|Yin]] and [[Yang Release|Yang]], which deals with changing the ratio of spiritual and physical energies within chakra.
 
   
 
As an in-between stage, some ninja can partially manipulate their chakra. This means they can use their chakra, but not effectively control it, which results in a poorly executed technique. A prime example is when [[Naruto Uzumaki]] tried to use the [[Clone Technique]] during his [[Academy]] graduation exam. To manipulate their chakra more easily, [[hand seals]] can be used. With these hand seals, users can control their chakra with higher efficiency, allowing them to execute their techniques more effectively. Different techniques also require the use of different hand seals. Shinobi who are extremely skilled at chakra control can become [[medical-nin]] or make more effective use of genjutsu.
These two methods can be implemented separately or together in order to create a technique.
 
   
 
When creating a ninjutsu, the two methods of manipulating chakra are referred to as [[shape transformation]] and [[nature transformation]]:
The general term for the exact moulding and proper manipulation of chakra is called "''chakra control''". People with skilled chakra control are usually [[Medical-nin]] or [[Sensor]]-types, both of which requires extreme control over chakra to be effective. [[Genjutsu]] apparently also requires good chakra control.
 
 
* Shape transformation deals with controlling the form, movement, and potency of chakra.
 
* Nature transformation deals with changing the physical properties of chakra into an element. There is also the nature transformation of [[Yin]] and [[Yang]], which deals with changing the ratio of spiritual and physical energies within chakra.
 
These two methods can be implemented separately or together in order to create a technique, though ninja who can use both simultaneously are said to be rare.
   
 
A good way to build up chakra in the body is to spin it into a tight spiral. Whether to spin the chakra left or right is dependent on the way the user's hair grows, either to the right or left.<ref>''Naruto'' episode 87</ref><ref>''Naruto'' chapter 151, page 11</ref> An opponent can negate a technique by [[Chakra Absorption Techniques|absorbing it]] and reversing the spin of the chakra within their own body.<ref>Third Databook, page 296</ref>
 
A good way to build up chakra in the body is to spin it into a tight spiral. Whether to spin the chakra left or right is dependent on the way the user's hair grows, either to the right or left.<ref>''Naruto'' episode 87</ref><ref>''Naruto'' chapter 151, page 11</ref> An opponent can negate a technique by [[Chakra Absorption Techniques|absorbing it]] and reversing the spin of the chakra within their own body.<ref>Third Databook, page 296</ref>
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=== Senjutsu Chakra ===
 
=== Senjutsu Chakra ===
 
{{main|Senjutsu}}
 
{{main|Senjutsu}}
[[File:Chakra Moulding Diagram (Senjutsu).svg|thumb|The Three Elements of Senjutsu Chakra. Spiritual, Physical, and Natural Energy in Complete Balance.]]
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[[File:Chakra Moulding Diagram (Senjutsu).svg|thumb|The three components of senjutsu chakra: physical energy, spiritual energy, and natural energy.]]
{{translation|'''Senjutsu chakra'''|仙術チャクラ|Senjutsu Chakura|engtv=Sage Jutsu Chakra}} is the chakra needed to perform senjutsu, which contains the energy found in nature itself. It is a powerful source of energy, able to grant a ninja increased strength, speed, and endurance for taijutsu, as well as enhancing the power of one's ninjutsu and genjutsu. Sage chakra is created through the three-way mixing and balancing of one's physical energy and spiritual energy, as well as the {{translation|[[natural energy]]|自然エネルギー|shizen enerugī}} from the atmosphere/air and terrain/ground. Since the three energies need to be equally balanced, the higher one's personal chakra capacity (physical energy and spiritual energy), the more natural energy they can add to the mix. Only those with a such large chakra capacity can gather the natural energy needed for entering a powerful state called [[Sage Mode]]. Also, only when a person remains "''perfectly still''", no longer disrupting the flow of nature around them like ripples in a pond, can they properly feel and harness natural energy. Remaining completely still for a period of time takes a great deal of concentration and patience, requiring a highly motivated and calm state of mind.
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{{translation|'''Senjutsu chakra'''|仙術チャクラ|Senjutsu Chakura|engtv=Sage Jutsu Chakra}} is the chakra needed to perform senjutsu. It is a powerful source of energy, able to grant a ninja increased strength, speed, and endurance for taijutsu, as well as enhancing the power of one's ninjutsu and genjutsu. Senjutsu chakra is created through the three-way mixing and balancing of one's physical energy and spiritual energy, as well as the {{translation|[[natural energy]]|自然エネルギー|shizen enerugī|engtv=Nature Energy}} from the atmosphere/air and terrain/ground. Since the three energies need to be equally balanced, the higher one's personal chakra capacity is, the more natural energy they can add to the mix. Only those with a large chakra capacity can gather the natural energy needed for entering the powerful state called [[Sage Mode]]. Also, only when a person remains "''perfectly still''", no longer disrupting the flow of nature around them like ripples in a pond, can they properly feel and harness natural energy. Remaining completely still for a period of time takes a great deal of concentration and patience, requiring a highly motivated and calm state of mind.
 
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=== Six Paths Chakra ===
 
=== Six Paths Chakra ===
[[File:Hagoromo Naruto and Sasuke.png|thumb]]
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[[File:Hagoromo Naruto and Sasuke.png|thumb|Hagoromo giving Six Paths Chakra to Naruto and Sasuke.]]
{{translation|'''Six Paths Chakra'''|六道チャクラ|Rikudō Chakura|engtv=Six Paths Chakra}} is the unique chakra of [[Hagoromo Ōtsutsuki]], otherwise known as the Sage of the Six Paths. This type of chakra can be acquired by combining the chakra of both Hagoromo's sons, [[Indra]] and [[Asura]], or becoming the [[jinchūriki]] of the [[Ten-Tails]]. It is necessary for the awakening of Hagoromo's own [[dōjutsu]], the [[Rinnegan]], as well as usage of both the [[Six Paths Sage Technique]] and the [[Truth-Seeking Ball]]s.
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{{translation|'''[[Six Paths]] Chakra'''|六道チャクラ|Rikudō Chakura}} is the unique chakra of [[Hagoromo Ōtsutsuki]], otherwise known as the Sage of the Six Paths. This type of chakra can be acquired by combining the chakra of both Hagoromo's sons, [[Indra]] and [[Asura]], thereby awakening Hagoromo's own [[dōjutsu]], the [[Rinnegan]]. This chakra can also be acquired from having the Rinnegan implanted. The Six Paths chakra, combined with senjutsu chakra, brings forth the {{translation|'''Six Paths Sage Chakra'''|六道の仙人チャクラ|Rikudō no Sennin Chakura}}, which is necessary for the usage of both the [[Six Paths Sage Technique]] and the [[Truth-Seeking Ball]]s. It can also allow its wielder to [[Six Paths Floating Ability|float]].
   
Hagoromo [[Chakra Transfer Technique|transferred]] this chakra to [[Naruto Uzumaki]] and [[Sasuke Uchiha]] when they were near death, at which point they obtained the Six Paths Sage Technique and Rinnegan, respectively, though it is unknown if this is what caused them to obtain those powers. This chakra allowed Naruto and Sasuke to directly harm [[Madara Uchiha]] when he was the Ten-Tails' jinchūriki, the latter of the two even [[Chidori Sharp Spear|bisecting]] him despite not having any [[senjutsu]] training.
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Hagoromo [[Chakra Transfer Technique|transferred]] his chakra to [[Naruto Uzumaki]] and [[Sasuke Uchiha]] when they were near death, at which point they obtained the Six Paths Sage Technique and Rinnegan, respectively, though it is unknown if this is what caused them to obtain those powers. This chakra allowed Naruto and Sasuke to directly harm [[Madara Uchiha]] when he was the Ten-Tails' jinchūriki, the latter of the two even [[Chidori Sharp Spear|bisecting]] him despite not having any [[senjutsu]] training.
   
[[Obito Uchiha]] used this power, after stealing it from Madara, to create his own Truth-Seeking Ball, despite no longer being the Ten-Tails' jinchūriki. This very same power was temporarily given to [[Kakashi Hatake]] when Obito transferred his chakra to him as a spirit during the former's battle against [[Kaguya Ōtsutsuki]]. This chakra amplifies the power of any technique and can also change its colour, as seen with Sasuke's [[Chidori]] and Kakashi's [[Lightning Cutter]].
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[[Obito Uchiha]] used this power, stealing it along with senjutsu chakra from Madara, to gain access to the Six Paths Sage Chakra and create his own Truth-Seeking Ball, despite no longer being the Ten-Tails' jinchūriki. This very same power was temporarily given to [[Kakashi Hatake]] when Obito transferred his chakra to him as a spirit during the former's battle against [[Kaguya Ōtsutsuki]]. This power can amplify any technique and can also change its colour, as seen with Sasuke's [[Chidori]] and Kakashi's [[Lightning Cutter]].
   
There are also Six Paths [[Six Paths Yin Power|Yin]] and [[Six Paths Yang Power|Yang]] powers, which can be transferred between individuals. Incredible feats can be achieved when the two powers are combined, such as [[Creation of All Things|creating form from nothing and breathing life into it]] or unleashing a [[Six Paths Chibaku Tensei|massive Chibaku Tensei]] capable of creating a [[moon]] and [[Fūinjutsu|sealing]] a being as powerful as Kaguya.
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There are also Six Paths [[Six Paths Yin Power|Yin]] and [[Six Paths Yang Power|Yang]] powers, which can be transferred between individuals. Incredible feats can be achieved when the two powers are [[Yin–Yang Release|combined]], such as unleashing a [[Six Paths Chibaku Tensei|massive Chibaku Tensei]] capable of creating a [[moon]] and [[Fūinjutsu|sealing]] a being as powerful as [[Kaguya Ōtsutsuki]].
 
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=== Non-Canon Types ===
 
=== Non-Canon Types ===
 
==== Star Chakra ====
 
==== Star Chakra ====
[[Image:Mysterious Peacock Method.png|thumb|Mysterious Peacock Method Chakra.]]
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[[Image:Mysterious Peacock Method.png|thumb|Mysterious Peacock Method chakra.]]
 
{{Main|Mysterious Peacock Method}}
 
{{Main|Mysterious Peacock Method}}
 
By using the chakra enhancing [[meteorite]], shinobi from [[Hoshigakure]] can manipulate their chakra into a wide variety of skills at the cost of extreme damage to their bodies. Hoshigakure's method gets its name, Mysterious Peacock, from the chakra's raw manifestation as pinkish purple chakra tails similar to a peacock's tail feathers.
 
By using the chakra enhancing [[meteorite]], shinobi from [[Hoshigakure]] can manipulate their chakra into a wide variety of skills at the cost of extreme damage to their bodies. Hoshigakure's method gets its name, Mysterious Peacock, from the chakra's raw manifestation as pinkish purple chakra tails similar to a peacock's tail feathers.
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== Trivia ==
 
== Trivia ==
* Although chakra is usually invisible, those with certain dōjutsu, like the [[Sharingan]], [[Rinnegan]] or [[Byakugan]], can see the colour of someone's chakra. Each person's chakra apparently has a different colour. It is also interesting to note the fact that sufficiently immense amounts of chakra are visible to the naked eye.
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* Although chakra is usually invisible, those with dōjutsu such as the [[Sharingan]], [[Rinnegan]] and [[Byakugan]] can see the colour of someone's chakra. Each person's chakra apparently has a different colour, though all regular chakra is depicted as light blue in the anime. Sufficiently immense amounts of chakra are also visible to the naked eye.
* It is said that the [[Sage of the Six Paths]] was the first to unravel the mysteries of chakra.
 
* It is stated by [[Kurama]] (and later elaborated by [[Madara Uchiha]]) that chakra was created and produced by the [[Ten-Tails|God Tree]].
 
 
* People who are related share similar chakra signatures.<ref>''Naruto'' chapter 525, page 3</ref>
 
* People who are related share similar chakra signatures.<ref>''Naruto'' chapter 525, page 3</ref>
 
* Chakra signatures also vary among different populations.<ref>''Naruto'' chapter 547, page 2</ref>
 
* Chakra signatures also vary among different populations.<ref>''Naruto'' chapter 547, page 2</ref>
* In ''[[Naruto Shippūden 4: The Lost Tower]]'', as stated by [[Minato Namikaze]] and partially supported in the anime episode: ''[[Resonance]]'', chakra with similar signatures resonate when they are near.
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* In ''[[Naruto Shippūden 4: The Lost Tower]]'', as stated by [[Minato Namikaze]] and partially supported in ''Shippūden'' episode [[Resonance|70]], chakra with similar signatures resonate when they are near.
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* The strength and properties of one's chakra are determined by their genetics, and there are specific genes for strong chakra which can be inherited. Even if one does not inherit said genes, it is possible to obtain similarly powerful chakra through training.<ref>''Naruto'' chapter 671</ref>
 
* In addition to their genetics, chakra seems to reflect its owner's personality and emotions to some extent, as [[Karin]] noted Sasuke's chakra had grown darker and colder when he increasingly fell victim to the [[Curse of Hatred]], while she described Naruto's chakra as bright and warm.
   
 
== See Also ==
 
== See Also ==
 
* [[Chakra Pathway System]]
 
* [[Chakra Pathway System]]
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* [[Eight Gates]]
 
* [[Tenketsu]]
 
* [[Tenketsu]]
   

Revision as of 09:17, 30 September 2014

Chakra (チャクラ, chakura) is essential to even the most basic technique; it is the moulding of the physical energy (身体エネルギー, shintai enerugī) present in every cell of the body and the spiritual energy (精神エネルギー, seishin enerugī, English TV: Mental Energy) gained from the mind. Once moulded, it can be channelled through the chakra pathway system, which is to chakra as the circulatory system is to blood, to any of the 361 tenketsu in the body. Through various methods, the most common of which is hand seals, the chakra can then be controlled and manipulated to create an effect that would not be possible otherwise, such as walking on water, exhaling fire or creating illusions.

Through the process of nature transformation, chakra can be converted into a number of different natures. Most ninja have a natural affinity to one chakra nature, but they have the capacity to use natures apart from their own affinity. There are five basic natures, but in addition to these, certain genetic traits allow multiple natures to be combined into new natures; for example, it is possible to mix Water and Wind into Ice. While many ninja can use more than one chakra nature, very few are able to combine them in this manner.

Origin

Chakra was originally something that belonged to the Shinju. When Princess Kaguya Ōtsutsuki ate the fruit the Shinju bore, she became the first person in history to wield chakra. With her newfound power, she ended all the wars that plagued the lands. Her sons, Hamura and Hagoromo Ōtsutsuki, the latter of whom would become the man known as the Sage of the Six Paths, were the first people to be born with chakra.[1] It was Hagoromo who spread chakra to others, intending for the chakra to connect people's spiritual energy so that they would understand one another without even talking. This became known as ninshū (忍宗, literally meaning: Shinobi Sect), with his goal being to lead the world toward peace. However, the people did not use chakra in the way the Sage had hoped, instead using it to connect their inner spiritual and physical energies. They kneaded their inner chakra to amplify and weaponise it, creating what is now known as ninjutsu. In the end, they ended up using their chakra in battle, just as Hagoromo's mother Kaguya did.[2]

Overview

Chakra Moulding Diagram (Normal)

The two components of chakra: physical energy and spiritual energy.

Since being spread by the Sage of the Six Paths, chakra has become a form of life energy that all living individuals produce to some degree and require to survive. Produced within the "chakra coils" that mainly surround and connect to each chakra-producing organ, the energy circulates throughout the body in a network called the "Chakra Pathway System", which is similar to the cardiovascular system. Certain groups, such as shinobi, have learned to generate more chakra and release it outside their bodies through pressure points called tenketsu in order to perform jutsu. Chakra is not normally visible to the human eye, though it can be seen in situations where a person releases as much of their chakra as possible. This is rarely seen due to the restrictions of eight specific tenketsu known as the Eight Gates, which limit the amount of chakra an individual can release at a single given time. Chakra can also be visible when performing certain techniques, such as the Rasengan.

Of the many different types of techniques, ninjutsu, genjutsu, dōjutsu, and so on, all require the use of chakra. However, taijutsu is different, usually requiring no chakra use whatsoever; stamina is all that is needed. While the ninja still needs a set amount of chakra to live, regular taijutsu doesn't require any active moulding or manipulation of chakra, with few exceptions. A standard attack like a punch or kick falls into this technique category.

Chakra is created when two other forms of energy, known collectively as one's stamina, are moulded together. Physical energy (身体エネルギー, shintai enerugī) is collected from each and every one of the body's cells and can be increased through training, stimulants, and exercise. Spiritual energy (精神エネルギー, seishin enerugī, English TV: Mental Energy) is derived from the mind's consciousness and can be increased through studying, meditation, and experience. These two energies becoming more powerful will in turn make the created chakra more powerful. Therefore, practising a technique repeatedly will build up experience, increasing one's spiritual energy, and thus allowing more chakra to be created. As a result, the ninja is able to do that same technique with more power. This same cycle applies for physical energy, except the ninja needs to increase their endurance instead.

The general term for the source of chakra, the overall physical and spiritual energy an individual has, is called their "total stamina". The maximum amount of chakra an individual can create and retain at a given time is called their "chakra power-level".

Each person's chakra is different and as such gives off a unique chakra signature, which sensor type ninja are able to detect. One's chakra signature can be altered by absorbing DNA from multiple people, as seen in Kabuto Yakushi's case. By mixing various chakra signatures together, it became a whole new one, so that not even a sensor type who was already familiar with him could recognise him by his chakra.[3]

Chakra Control

Chakra Control (チャクラコントロール , chakura kontorōru) is a term that refers to the control of one's chakra and aptitude at controlling it. In Naruto, chakra takes time and a great deal of training to gradually build up. Thus, the key is not actually having chakra, but being able to sufficiently control and conserve it. Everyone has chakra, but only skilled ninja can correctly "mould" and "manipulate" it to its fullest extent.

Moulding chakra involves the extraction of physical energy from the body's cells and spiritual energy from the mind's consciousness, and then mixing them together within the body. In other words, a ninja could create too much or too little chakra for a given technique, resulting in the chakra being used inefficiently. In addition, even if a ninja is able to mould the correct amount of chakra, if they cannot manipulate the chakra properly, the desired technique will not be as effective or will not execute at all. Wasting stamina and chakra will also create weaknesses like early exhaustion, which would hinder the ninja's capacity to fight long-term battles. General training methods for improving one's moulding and manipulation of chakra are the Leaf Concentration, Tree Climbing, and Water Surface Walking exercises.

As an in-between stage, some ninja can partially manipulate their chakra. This means they can use their chakra, but not effectively control it, which results in a poorly executed technique. A prime example is when Naruto Uzumaki tried to use the Clone Technique during his Academy graduation exam. To manipulate their chakra more easily, hand seals can be used. With these hand seals, users can control their chakra with higher efficiency, allowing them to execute their techniques more effectively. Different techniques also require the use of different hand seals. Shinobi who are extremely skilled at chakra control can become medical-nin or make more effective use of genjutsu.

When creating a ninjutsu, the two methods of manipulating chakra are referred to as shape transformation and nature transformation:

  • Shape transformation deals with controlling the form, movement, and potency of chakra.
  • Nature transformation deals with changing the physical properties of chakra into an element. There is also the nature transformation of Yin and Yang, which deals with changing the ratio of spiritual and physical energies within chakra.

These two methods can be implemented separately or together in order to create a technique, though ninja who can use both simultaneously are said to be rare.

A good way to build up chakra in the body is to spin it into a tight spiral. Whether to spin the chakra left or right is dependent on the way the user's hair grows, either to the right or left.[4][5] An opponent can negate a technique by absorbing it and reversing the spin of the chakra within their own body.[6]

Shape of Chakra

Main article: Shape Transformation Most techniques take a certain shape that is usually precisely controlled from one hand to another, through chakra. A good example of this is the Rasengan. Naruto uses one of his hands to control chakra, and moves it over the other in a circular motion, which eventually creates a sphere of pure chakra.

Elemental Chakra

Elemental Relationships Diagram

A circular diagram of the different elemental weaknesses. Clockwise from the top: Fire, Wind, Lightning, Earth, and Water.

Main article: Nature Transformation Based on which ninjutsu the ninja uses, the amount of chakra will be different, as would the element the ninja employs. The five main elemental types are also the names for the Five Great Shinobi Nations: Fire, Wind, Lightning, Earth and Water. Each ninja has the potential to better utilise one of these styles and potentially more. Rinnegan users somehow have the ability to easily control all five elements.

Highly advanced power-levels elements such as Wood Release and Ice Release are created by combining different elemental chakra types. Doing this is only possible with a kekkei genkai or having a tailed beast with such an element in canon.

However, the first movie has shown that shinobi of the Land of Snow are able to perform Ice Release techniques without a bloodline by manipulating the ice around them. Kajika was also able to use a water technique that produces solid ice, snow and frost.

Other Types of Chakra

Tailed Beast Chakra

Naruto kyuubi

Tailed beast chakra.

Main articles: Tailed Beasts and Jinchūriki The tailed beasts (尾獣, bijū) are the nine titanic behemoths within the Naruto series. They are living forms of chakra, sometimes referred to as "Chakra Monsters" (チャクラのバケモノ, Chakura no Bakemono),[7][8] giving them immense reserves of especially strong chakra that far outmatches most shinobi. The tailed beasts' chakra is coloured red.

Over the centuries, countless humans failed to regard the tailed beasts as sapient individuals, treating them with great disdain and fear. Because of their immense power, they sought the tailed beasts out as mere tools to be controlled, a sentiment they detest.[9] Eventually, they found the way to partially control their power, by using powerful fūinjutsu to seal them within humans. The hosts of the tailed beasts are called jinchūriki (人柱力, literally meaning: Power of Human Sacrifice).

Senjutsu Chakra

Main article: Senjutsu

Chakra Moulding Diagram (Senjutsu)

The three components of senjutsu chakra: physical energy, spiritual energy, and natural energy.

Senjutsu chakra (仙術チャクラ, Senjutsu Chakura, English TV: Sage Jutsu Chakra) is the chakra needed to perform senjutsu. It is a powerful source of energy, able to grant a ninja increased strength, speed, and endurance for taijutsu, as well as enhancing the power of one's ninjutsu and genjutsu. Senjutsu chakra is created through the three-way mixing and balancing of one's physical energy and spiritual energy, as well as the natural energy (自然エネルギー, shizen enerugī, English TV: Nature Energy) from the atmosphere/air and terrain/ground. Since the three energies need to be equally balanced, the higher one's personal chakra capacity is, the more natural energy they can add to the mix. Only those with a large chakra capacity can gather the natural energy needed for entering the powerful state called Sage Mode. Also, only when a person remains "perfectly still", no longer disrupting the flow of nature around them like ripples in a pond, can they properly feel and harness natural energy. Remaining completely still for a period of time takes a great deal of concentration and patience, requiring a highly motivated and calm state of mind.

Six Paths Chakra

File:Hagoromo Naruto and Sasuke.png

Hagoromo giving Six Paths Chakra to Naruto and Sasuke.

Six Paths Chakra (六道チャクラ, Rikudō Chakura) is the unique chakra of Hagoromo Ōtsutsuki, otherwise known as the Sage of the Six Paths. This type of chakra can be acquired by combining the chakra of both Hagoromo's sons, Indra and Asura, thereby awakening Hagoromo's own dōjutsu, the Rinnegan. This chakra can also be acquired from having the Rinnegan implanted. The Six Paths chakra, combined with senjutsu chakra, brings forth the Six Paths Sage Chakra (六道の仙人チャクラ, Rikudō no Sennin Chakura), which is necessary for the usage of both the Six Paths Sage Technique and the Truth-Seeking Balls. It can also allow its wielder to float.

Hagoromo transferred his chakra to Naruto Uzumaki and Sasuke Uchiha when they were near death, at which point they obtained the Six Paths Sage Technique and Rinnegan, respectively, though it is unknown if this is what caused them to obtain those powers. This chakra allowed Naruto and Sasuke to directly harm Madara Uchiha when he was the Ten-Tails' jinchūriki, the latter of the two even bisecting him despite not having any senjutsu training.

Obito Uchiha used this power, stealing it along with senjutsu chakra from Madara, to gain access to the Six Paths Sage Chakra and create his own Truth-Seeking Ball, despite no longer being the Ten-Tails' jinchūriki. This very same power was temporarily given to Kakashi Hatake when Obito transferred his chakra to him as a spirit during the former's battle against Kaguya Ōtsutsuki. This power can amplify any technique and can also change its colour, as seen with Sasuke's Chidori and Kakashi's Lightning Cutter.

There are also Six Paths Yin and Yang powers, which can be transferred between individuals. Incredible feats can be achieved when the two powers are combined, such as unleashing a massive Chibaku Tensei capable of creating a moon and sealing a being as powerful as Kaguya Ōtsutsuki.

Gift of the Hermit Group

File:Gift of the Hermit Group.png

Gift of the Hermit Group chakra.

Main article: Gift of the Hermit Group The Gift of the Hermit Group (仙族の才, Senzoku no Sai, English TV: Gift of the Sages) is a special kind of chakra used by the ninja monks of the Fire Temple. It requires daily, unrelenting training to master. This chakra is required to unseal the Sealed Iron Wall granting access to the Fire Temple. It is also required for the technique Welcoming Approach: Thousand-Armed Murder.

Non-Canon Types

Star Chakra

Mysterious Peacock Method

Mysterious Peacock Method chakra.

Main article: Mysterious Peacock Method By using the chakra enhancing meteorite, shinobi from Hoshigakure can manipulate their chakra into a wide variety of skills at the cost of extreme damage to their bodies. Hoshigakure's method gets its name, Mysterious Peacock, from the chakra's raw manifestation as pinkish purple chakra tails similar to a peacock's tail feathers.

Dark Chakra

Shadow arms

The Zero-Tails' shadow arms.

Main article: Zero-Tails Dark Chakra (闇のチャクラ, Yami no Chakura) is a special chakra formed from the negative emotions of the heart. Created by the Zero-Tails, as it feeds on the negative emotions of the people around it, it is shown to be extremely powerful, being used to power the Land of the Sky's Ancor Vantian and grants Shinnō powerful techniques with seemingly no drawbacks, though it eventually destroys the mind, and rots the soul of the user.

Priestess Chakra

File:Protective Sphere of Light.JPG

The priestess light chakra.

Main article: Mystic Safety Bell Priestess Chakra (巫女チャクラ, Miko Chakura) has a bright and unique aspect. It can send pink rays of severing light at the user, Shion's, opponents, create a light barrier to shield her from darkness, and transform her into an angelic form. She also used the mystical chakra of the bell to create a protective sphere around a designated target, as she did for Naruto Uzumaki, and use the chakra with Naruto to form the Super Chakra Rasengan. Miroku feared that if Shion is corrupted, her powers would be deadlier than a gigantic demon's.

Trivia

  • Although chakra is usually invisible, those with dōjutsu such as the Sharingan, Rinnegan and Byakugan can see the colour of someone's chakra. Each person's chakra apparently has a different colour, though all regular chakra is depicted as light blue in the anime. Sufficiently immense amounts of chakra are also visible to the naked eye.
  • People who are related share similar chakra signatures.[10]
  • Chakra signatures also vary among different populations.[11]
  • In Naruto Shippūden 4: The Lost Tower, as stated by Minato Namikaze and partially supported in Shippūden episode 70, chakra with similar signatures resonate when they are near.
  • The strength and properties of one's chakra are determined by their genetics, and there are specific genes for strong chakra which can be inherited. Even if one does not inherit said genes, it is possible to obtain similarly powerful chakra through training.[12]
  • In addition to their genetics, chakra seems to reflect its owner's personality and emotions to some extent, as Karin noted Sasuke's chakra had grown darker and colder when he increasingly fell victim to the Curse of Hatred, while she described Naruto's chakra as bright and warm.

See Also

References

  1. Naruto chapter 646, pages 6-9
  2. Naruto chapter 665, pages 6-7
  3. Naruto chapter 667, page 2
  4. Naruto episode 87
  5. Naruto chapter 151, page 11
  6. Third Databook, page 296
  7. Naruto chapter 256, page 14
  8. Naruto chapter 404, page 14
  9. Naruto chapter 568, page 13
  10. Naruto chapter 525, page 3
  11. Naruto chapter 547, page 2
  12. Naruto chapter 671