A Comprehensive Explanation of Restrictions and Oaths in Hunter x Hunter | The Mechanism and Specific Examples of Strengthening Nen Abilities

One of the most strategic and profound elements in the Hunter x Hunter nen ability system is "restrictions and oaths". By understanding this mechanism, you can gain a deeper understanding of the background behind the enhancements of main characters like Kurapika and Gon, as well as the significance of impressive battle scenes in the series.

This article will thoroughly explain everything from the basic principles of restrictions and oaths to specific types and notable examples within the series, making it easy for beginners to understand.

What are Restrictions and Oaths? Basic Principles of Strengthening Nen Abilities

**Restrictions and oaths** are a mechanism by which nen users significantly enhance their abilities through rules and penalties they impose on themselves. This system serves as an important element that brings strategy and tension to nen battles in Hunter x Hunter.

• Definition and Basic Concepts of Restrictions and Oaths
• Why are Nen Abilities Strengthened? Explanation of the Mechanism

Definition and Basic Concepts of Restrictions and Oaths

**Restrictions and oaths refer to the "conditions" and "rules" that a nen user imposes on themselves.Restrictions limit the conditions under which abilities can be used,oaths** refer to the promise of penalties in case those restrictions are broken.

The two are closely related and are often used in tandem. For example, by setting a restriction that "this ability can only be used against a specific opponent" and making an oath that "if I use it against anyone else, I will lose my nen abilities," the power is significantly enhanced.

The essence of restrictions and oaths lies in the trade-off relationship of "gaining power at the expense of inconvenience". The stricter the constraints and the heavier the penalties of the vows, the greater the power obtained will be.

Why is the nen ability enhanced? Explanation of the mechanism

The reason the nen ability is enhanced by constraints and vows lies in the "resolve" and "concentration of aura" of the nen users.

Nen is the ability to manipulate aura, but aura is closely related to mental strength. By imposing strict constraints on oneself and making a serious vow about the severe penalties for breaking them, the nen user's resolve and mental strength are heightened. This strong will improves both the quality and quantity of aura.

Furthermore, by limiting the conditions of use, the power of the aura, which should originally be widely dispersed, can be **concentrated on specific situations or targets**. For example, by establishing a constraint that

Risk-Involving Promises

Risk-involving promises impose severe penalties for breaking constraints or failing to use abilities. They are the most dangerous, but the power gained is tremendous.

A typical example would be promises that involve life or ability such as "If I break the constraint, I will die" or "I will lose my Nen forever." Kurapika's promise that he would die if he used the chain outside the Phantom Troupe is a prime example of this type.

This type of promise can draw out levels of power that are normally unattainable, in exchange for a strong resolve from the Nen user. However, once broken, it cannot be undone, so extremely careful management is required.

Self-Restrictive Constraints

Self-restrictive constraints are those that limit one's own abilities or actions. By limiting the number of times abilities can be used or sacrificing certain bodily functions, they enhance the Nen abilities.

For instance, constraints like "can only be used once a day," "cannot use Nen for a certain period after use," or "by sealing vision, other senses are sharpened" fall into this category. Gon sacrificing all of his talents and future could also be seen as the ultimate form of self-restrictive constraint.

This type places a hefty burden on the user, but since it does not rely on others, it can definitely demonstrate its effects.

Impressive Examples of Constraints and Promises in the Story

Hunter x Hunter features numerous impressive scenes that cleverly utilize constraints and promises. Here, let's take a closer look at the constraints and promises of particularly important characters.

• Kurapika's Chain Restrictions | Specialization towards the Phantom Troupe and Sacrifice
• Gon | Ultimate Restrictions and Vows
• Chrollo's Thief Mastery (Skill Hunter)
• Other Impressive Restrictions and Vows

Kurapika's Chain Restrictions | Specialization towards the Phantom Troupe and Sacrifice

Kurapika's Nen ability,

However, as a cost for this, the brigade members captured by this chain become completely powerless and can no longer use their Nen abilities. Moreover, in combination with the "Judgment Chain", it possesses the absolute controlling power to wrap the chain around the opponent's heart and crush it in case of disobedience.

Gon | Ultimate Constraints and Vows

The "Gon" that Gon activated during the battle against Neferpitou is the ultimate form that delves into the concept of constraints and vows to the limit.

Gon sacrificed all his talents, future, and even his life as a cost, and was forcibly evolved into the "highest state" he would have originally reached. This constraint is established by the ultimate resolve of giving up even his own life.

As a result, Gon acquired the power to overwhelm the Royal Guards' Pitou, but afterward, he fell into a near-death state that could not be recovered through normal treatments. Ultimately, he was saved by Aluka's (Nanika's) power, but it illustrates how dangerous and absolute this constraint and vow were.

Gon can be said to embody the ultimate form of the principle of "risk and return as equivalent exchange" that constraints and vows hold. [Related article]: A thorough explanation of Gon from Hunter x Hunter’s growth | The reason for Gon’s awakening and its cost

Chrollo's Thief's Mastery (Skill Hunter)

Chrollo Lucilfer, the leader of the Phantom Troupe, possesses the "Thief's Mastery (Skill Hunter)", which is also known for having complex constraints.

This ability to steal and use other people's Nen abilities is subject to the following strict conditions.

1. To actually see the opponent's Nen ability
2. To ask questions about the opponent's Nen ability and receive answers
3. To have the opponent touch the cover of the book with their palm
4. To achieve the above within one hour

Furthermore, even when using the stolen ability, there is a constraint that "the book must be held in the right hand, and the page of the desired ability must be opened", which comes with the disadvantage of **having both hands occupied**.

From the Yorknew arc onwards, you can use both hands freely with "The Theme of Bookmark (Double Face)," but this also comes with additional constraints.

It is precisely because of these **complex constraints** that Chrollo is able to accomplish the originally impossible feat of stealing others' abilities. [Related Article]: Complete Guide to the Members of the Phantom Troupe in Hunter x Hunter | List of 13 Abilities and Survival Status

Other Impressive Constraints and Vows

There are also other impressive constraints and vows featured in the story.

Jeits' "There are 11 people! (Eleven Black Children)" is an ability with a vow that risks one's life to assassinate Chrollo. The **ultimate constraint that guarantees death after activation** challenged the difficult goal of assassinating a prince.

Additionally, Castro imposed a constraint of forcibly using an ability far removed from his original lineage to master the ability of creating clones called "Tiger Bite Fist (Double)." However, this was pointed out by Hisoka as "wasting memory," making it an inefficient example of using constraints.

Constraints and vows can, depending on how they are used, become **powerful weapons or fatal weaknesses**.

Points to Consider When Setting Constraints and Vows

While constraints and vows provide powerful abilities, misusing them can lead to fatal weaknesses. Here, we will explain key points for establishing effective constraints and vows.

• Consider the balance of risks and returns
• Choose constraints that fit your combat style

Consider the Balance of Risks and Returns

The most important thing about constraints and vows is **the balance of risks and returns**. While overly stringent constraints can indeed provide powerful abilities, if they cannot be utilized in actual combat, they are meaningless.

For example, Kurapika's chain on his middle finger possesses overwhelming strength due to the restriction of only being usable against the Phantom Troupe, but cannot be used in battle against anyone else. Additionally, a restriction like Gon’s, which is exchanged for his life, is effective as a one-time trump card but is unsuitable for long-term strategies.

The ideal condition is a restriction where "conditions that can definitely be achieved" lead to "maximum effect". By assessing the opponent and situation in which one will fight, the most severe restrictions can be set within that range, achieving both practicality and power. As Hisoka says, "restrictions should be set within what one can achieve themselves," a feasible restriction design is the key to strategic success.

Choose Restrictions That Suit Your Fighting Style

It is important to choose **restrictions and vows that fit your own fighting style and personality**. A restriction that is effective for others may not necessarily be suitable for oneself.

For a nen user skilled in close combat, a restriction of "activates only upon contact with the opponent" does not become a fatal disadvantage. Rather, by setting it as a condition that is inevitably met, they can enhance their ability without risk.

Conversely, if a nen user who specializes in long-range combat sets the same restriction, it contradicts their fighting style, making it impossible to utilize their ability effectively. One reason Castro lost to Hisoka was the wasted memory on developing abilities that did not match his fighting style.

Restrictions and vows are not just means of power enhancement but are **blueprints for maximizing one’s individuality and strategy**. By choosing restrictions that leverage one’s strengths and cover weaknesses, one can truly become a powerful nen user. 【Related Articles】：A Comprehensive Explanation of Nen Abilities in Hunter x Hunter for Beginners | From Aura and Seikou to the Four Great Techniques

Conclusion: The Depths of Nen Abilities Illustrated by Restrictions and Vows

**Restrictions and vows** are crucial elements that elevate the nen ability system of Hunter x Hunter from a mere superpower battle to a deep story rich in strategy and psychological depiction.

The essence of this system lies in the universal theme of "one cannot gain power without sacrifice". Kurapika risks his life for revenge, and Gon gives up everything to protect those dear to him. Their restrictions and vows are not merely means of power enhancement but are manifestations of their resolve and determination.

Moreover, restrictions and vows also serve to highlight the individuality of nen users.

The choice of constraints reflects the character's personality, values, and fighting style. Chrollo's complex theft conditions illustrate his calculative nature, while Gon’s life-risking constraints express his purity and passion.

By understanding constraints and vows, the battle scenes in Hunter x Hunter can be enjoyed on a deeper level. Knowing what kind of determination the characters have and what sacrifices they make to fight enriches the emotional impact of the story multiple times over.

The essence of Nen abilities lies not in mere strength, but in how much determination one has to follow their path. The system of constraints and vows brilliantly embodies that message. Complete explanation of Hunter x Hunter's Nen ability applications | Differentiating between Gyo, In, Kō, En, Ryū, and Ken