Original artwork, not a still
In the ninja world those who break the rules are scum, that's true. But those who abandon their friends are worse than scum!
— Naruto ‧ 2002
Behind the line
What it means
Our interpretation.
It is Kakashi's thesis on being a ninja, and it carries a wound. He grew up obeying the rules after his father was vilified for abandoning a mission, and it was Obito who taught him that teammates come first. When Kakashi repeats it to three twelve-year-olds, he is passing on Obito's lesson. Fans quote it in any argument about loyalty versus rules.
Context reviewed
In context
Spoilers for NarutoShow the scene
The end of the bell test. Kakashi has told Naruto, Sasuke and Sakura they fail for acting like children, then let them have lunch while Naruto stays tied to a post. When the three share their food with Naruto against his orders, Kakashi appears, and they say that they are a team. He tells them they have passed, explaining that those who break the rules are scum, but those who abandon their friends are worse than scum. They are the only team he has ever passed.
Sources (2)
- Narutopedia: You Failed! Kakashi's Final DecisionSynopsisReference checked
- Narutopedia: Kakashi HatakeBackgroundReference checked
Context reviewed
