Boruto just made the Naruto Shinobi ranks completely irrelevant

Boruto has sparked a crucial debate regarding the importance of shinobi ranking in the ninja world. In a conversation with Shikadai, Boruto questions the relevance of shinobi ranks, stating they're merely formalities and that ninjas should focus on personal growth rather than rank.

The same is evident in the cases of Naruto and Sasuke, the two main characters of Naruto. Despite achieving monumental feats and becoming prominent figures, they remained genin, the lowest shinobi rank. This observation regarding Naruto and Sasuke lends credence to Boruto's perspective, raising a pivotal question about the essence of the ranking system and its actual significance.

By taking a deeper look into the system and its functionality, it can be determined whether the statement is valid or whether the ranking system serves a legitimate purpose.

Exploring Boruto’s claim: Does the shinobi ranking system really matter?

Expand Tweet

For years, the Boruto anime has been a subject of debate in the Naruto fanbase. Criticism has been directed towards the heavy use of filler content, which has led to widespread backlash from fans.

However, the anime has also sparked meaningful discussions by raising significant questions and topics for debate. One such example is Boruto's inquiry into the relevance of shinobi ranks, which has prompted considerable fan discourse.

In the Naruto sequel anime, Boruto tells Shikadai that ninja ranks are just licenses and suggests that they shouldn’t be restricted by the rules established by the older generation. He says they should aim higher than the ranks and strive to become even greater ninjas, like Sasuke.

The assertion in question (Image via Pierrot)

This sparks a debate over the true worth of the ninja ranking system. Boruto's assertion gains traction considering his father, Naruto, the Seventh Hokage, and Sasuke both remained genin and never advanced through the ranks. Despite this, they attained unparalleled levels of achievement, power, and influence, with Naruto even becoming the Hokage as a genin.

Their extraordinary accomplishments call into question the significance of traditional rank advancement in measuring a ninja's capabilities and contributions, challenging the traditional notions of rank-based progression.

Therefore, while Naruto’s son’s disregard for the ranking system is understandable, given his father's example, it's important to recognize that the system serves a vital purpose beyond merely assessing power levels. It was established to ensure the safety of all shinobi, including those who may not possess exceptional strength, and to help assign missions appropriate to their abilities.

A cover from Two Blue Vortex (Image via Shueisha)

In this way, the ranking system plays a crucial role in maintaining the balance and effectiveness of the shinobi community, safeguarding weaker ninjas from being sent to missions beyond their capacity and risking their lives. It is practically impossible for the village head, like the Hokage, to have personal knowledge of every shinobi's capabilities.

Therefore, the ranking system is a practical tool for efficiently assigning missions. It allows village authorities to make informed decisions about mission assignments based on the recognized skill levels associated with each rank. By doing so, the system optimizes the village's resources and enhances its effectiveness in carrying out missions while considering the well-being of its shinobi.

Final thoughts

Expand Tweet

From an objective standpoint, it's accurate to say that ranks do not necessarily reflect a ninja's true power levels. However, from a practical and political perspective, the ranking system holds significant importance, serving as a vital tool for managing and coordinating ninjas more effectively.

While Boruto's perspective on the insignificance of ranks holds merit, and it's important for ninjas to prioritize surpassing their limitations and striving for greater strength, this doesn't render the ranking system obsolete as it exists to serve a purpose in the shinobi community.

5 Naruto villains who can destroy Sukuna's domain (& 5 who have no chance)

Why the Naruto live-action can never be as successful as One Piece Live-Action, explained