What myth is Naruto based on?

The anime and manga series Naruto, created by Masashi Kishimoto, draws inspiration from various mythological and cultural sources, particularly from Japanese mythology, folklore, and classical literature. Here are some of the key mythological and cultural influences on Naruto:

1. The Nine-Tails Fox (Kyūbi) – The Myth of the Nine-Tails Fox (Kitsune):

One of the central elements in Naruto is the Nine-Tails Fox, or Kyūbi (九尾), which is sealed inside Naruto Uzumaki. The Kyūbi is based on the mythological fox spirit known as Kitsune in Japanese folklore. Kitsune are believed to be shape-shifting spirits, often depicted as intelligent, mystical creatures capable of both good and evil. In particular, the nine-tailed fox (Kyūbi no Kitsune) is considered a powerful and dangerous creature, capable of causing massive destruction, much like the Kyūbi in Naruto.

In Japanese mythology, Kyūbi no Kitsune is a fox spirit that can grow more powerful with age and the number of tails it possesses. In Naruto, the Kyūbi shares a similar role, being a destructive and malevolent force that causes chaos, but it also evolves into a more complex and nuanced character as the series progresses.

2. **The Tale of the Sage of the Six Paths (Hōzuki) – Buddhism and Japanese Mythology:

The Sage of the Six Paths, Hagoromo Ōtsutsuki, is a key figure in Naruto and is deeply influenced by Buddhist mythology and Shinto beliefs. The Six Paths of Pain is a Buddhist concept associated with the idea of suffering and the cycle of life and death. Hagoromo's journey of attaining great power and wisdom, along with his fight against the forces of evil, is heavily inspired by Buddhist stories of enlightenment and the struggle between good and evil.

Additionally, the chakra system in Naruto (which allows ninjas to perform various supernatural abilities) is inspired by Hinduism and Buddhism, where chakras are energy points within the body that govern spiritual and physical well-being.

3. **The Uchiha Clan – The Myth of the Sharingan and the Mangekyō Sharingan:

The Uchiha clan and their iconic Sharingan eyes are also based on Japanese folklore. The Sharingan itself is inspired by the third eye concept, which appears in various cultures, including Hinduism and Buddhism, where it symbolizes higher levels of consciousness or spiritual awakening. The Mangekyō Sharingan, a more advanced form, can be linked to the myth of the Tengu, a supernatural creature in Japanese folklore known for its extraordinary powers and sight.

4. **The Jinchūriki and the Tailed Beasts – Mythological Creatures and Spirits:

The Jinchūriki are individuals who carry the Tailed Beasts (Bijū), which are powerful creatures that resemble the mythological creatures found in Japanese folklore. The Tailed Beasts themselves are inspired by various mythical beasts in different cultures, such as the Chinese dragons, the nine-tailed fox, and other creatures of immense power in East Asian folklore.

The concept of sealing these beasts within individuals mirrors the idea of controlling or harnessing mythical forces, which is a common theme in many mythologies. The Tailed Beasts are reminiscent of the gods and spirits in traditional mythologies, often seen as powerful forces that can bring both chaos and balance.

5. **Naruto’s Name – The Hero’s Journey:

Naruto’s name itself might also be inspired by Japanese folk heroes and mythological figures who go on a hero’s journey—a common narrative archetype. The structure of Naruto, especially Naruto's own growth from an outcast to a hero, follows the classical monomyth or hero’s journey model, seen in many mythological stories. Joseph Campbell’s "The Hero with a Thousand Faces" outlines this journey of transformation, which Naruto follows: a reluctant hero, mentors, trials, and ultimately achieving the status of the chosen one.

6. Jiraiya, Orochimaru, and Tsunade – The Legendary Three (Sannin):

The trio of Jiraiya, Orochimaru, and Tsunade, also known as the Legendary Three (Sannin), is heavily influenced by the Japanese folktale of the Tengu or Three Great Heroes. Specifically, the character of Jiraiya is based on the legendary Japanese folk hero Jiraiya, who was a ninja with the ability to transform into a giant toad and wield toad magic. In fact, Jiraiya in Naruto is often associated with toads and is depicted as a mentor figure, which mirrors the hero of the folktale.

7. The Akatsuki – The Pursuit of Power:

The Akatsuki, a group of rogue ninjas in Naruto, can be seen as inspired by various mythological anti-heroes or villainous groups in folklore. Their goal of collecting the Tailed Beasts and gaining ultimate power resonates with the mythological archetype of individuals or groups that seek to control powerful and dangerous forces, often leading to catastrophic consequences.

Conclusion:

Naruto incorporates a blend of mythological, folkloric, and religious elements from various traditions, including Japanese folklore, Buddhism, Hinduism, and Shintoism. The story’s characters, powers, and themes are influenced by mythical creatures, heroes, and spiritual concepts from these cultures, while also integrating the hero's journey as a central narrative framework. This combination of influences gives Naruto its rich, mythologically-inspired world, making it resonate with deep cultural and spiritual themes.