Why Does Gaara Still Have Sleep Deprivation-Related Marks Around His Eyes Despite Having Had the Shukaku Extracted from Him?

Gaara's sleep deprivation marks around his eyes, often mistaken for signs of lack of sleep, are deeply ingrained in his character, reflecting not only his past experiences but also the psychological and physical toll of being a jinchuriki. Even after the Shukaku was extracted, these marks remained as a poignant reminder of the trauma and stress he endured, symbolizing his journey from a troubled past to a more stable and accepted individual.

Psychological and Physical Trauma

Being a host to the Shukaku, a powerful tailed beast, took a significant toll on Gaara's mental and physical well-being. The isolation, fear, and the constant need to be vigilant while embodying the beast's power contributed to his psychological and physical state. The marks around his eyes serve as a visual portrayal of his past hardships and the internal battles he faced. These marks are a constant reminder of the struggles that defined him throughout his formative years.

Shukaku and Magnet Release

The black circles around Gaara's eyes are not a sign of a lack of sleep but a mark of using the powerful Shukaku's Magnet Release ninjutsu. The extraction of Shukaku did not fully erase the physical effects of years of using this technique. The magnet release, a continuous state of activation for Gaara, keeps his protective sand constantly active, leading to the persistent appearance of these black circles around his eyes.

Comparison with Gaara’s Father

Interestingly, Gaara's father also displays the same black circles when he uses his own magnet release techniques, but they only appear temporarily and are not permanent. This comparison highlights the unique relationship Gaara has with the Shukaku's power, as his version of magnet release is always active, symbolizing the constant presence of the beast's influence even after its extraction.

Theoretical Explanations

Several theories propose that the marks around Gaara's eyes are a side effect of his constant activation of absolute defense through magnet release. Alternatively, it is theorized that these marks were present from birth, similar to Naruto's whisker marks, which resulted from his exposure to the Nine-Tails' chakra before birth. Another plausible explanation is that the tradition in Suna involves applying kohl to young children right away, which could be the origin of the marks.

Conclusion

The sleeping deprivation marks around Gaara's eyes are a multifaceted representation of his character's complex journey. These marks serve as a constant reminder of his past, the powers he has mastered, and the psychological and physical burdens he has endured. Understanding their origin helps in appreciating Gaara's resilience and transformation throughout the series.