Imu's true identity may combine One Piece's Umibozu and Nefertari D. Lili possessed theories in the best way

Imu
Imu's true identity may combine One Piece's Umibozu and Nefertari D. Lili possessed theories in the best way (Image via Toei Animation)

The mystery surrounding Imu’s true identity in One Piece has sparked many intriguing theories, blending folklore and historical characters. One compelling idea suggests that Imu could be a manifestation of the Umibozu, the Sea Devil, tied to the legend of Devil Fruits.

This theory gains depth with the possible possession of Nefertari Lili, one of the 20 monarchs who helped found the World Government. Imu may have taken over Lili’s body, wielding both ancient powers and political authority. Exploring the fusion of these theories offers new insights into Imu’s origins, immortality, and connection to One Piece’s central mysteries.


One Piece: Saint Imu may have possessed Nefertari Lili

Saint Imu with the 20th sword (Image via Toei Animation)
Saint Imu with the 20th sword (Image via Toei Animation)

Nefertari Lili, one of the 20 rulers who founded the World Government, is a key figure in this mystery. Unlike the other kings, she did not leave her sword behind at the Empty Throne, which represents neutrality and lack of ownership of the world.

Instead, Imu now sits upon that throne, and there’s a sword behind them. Could this be Lili’s sword? The possibility that Imu possessed Lili’s body could explain her disappearance from history and Imu’s rise to power. Imu, through Lili, may have taken over the throne, cementing their rule over the world.


One Piece: Saint Imu's symbolism as the Devil

Nefertari Lili (Image via Shueisha)
Nefertari Lili (Image via Shueisha)

One of the most striking pieces of evidence comes from the symbolism in Imu’s room. Surrounding them are lily flowers, a direct connection to Nefertari Lili. Imu’s gaze at Lili’s portrait could be more than just a reflection on the past—it might symbolize Imu’s possession of Lili, their shared identity, or perhaps the transformation of Lili into Imu over time.

Interestingly, this parallels certain myths. In the Bible, Lilith, like Lili, is associated with night and chaos. Lilith eventually became a demonic figure, which may hint at Lili’s transformation into something darker—possibly Imu. This transformation could explain Imu’s current devilish appearance, including the “devil’s eyes” and “devil’s tail.”


One Piece: Saint Imu and the Gorosei may have had a pact with the Devil

The Gorosei as shown in the anime series (Image via Toei Animation)
The Gorosei as shown in the anime series (Image via Toei Animation)

Further supporting this idea is the presence of dark symbolism surrounding Imu. Imu’s features and actions evoke ideas tied to Satanism. The pentagram, or the Sigil of Baphomet, often associated with the Devil, mirrors the dark, hellish imagery that surrounds Imu.

Their black, hellish flames, their ability to command destruction, and their apparent immortality could suggest a connection to a Devil-like figure. Imu might be the ultimate devil in the One Piece world, granting power and eternal life through a “pact with the devil.” Perhaps, just as they grant it, Imu can also reclaim that power whenever they desire.

Imu is the secret ruler of the world (Image via Toei Animation)
Imu is the secret ruler of the world (Image via Toei Animation)

In this light, Imu’s control may extend beyond their own body. The idea that Imu could also control the Gorosei, the five elder stars, suggests a larger system of possession or influence. If Imu has the power to possess bodies, it’s possible that they maintain control over the Gorosei, enforcing their will across the entire world.


One Piece: The Sea Devil and Devil Fruits

Devil Fruits (Image via Toei Animation)
Devil Fruits (Image via Toei Animation)

This could also tie into the nature of Devil Fruits. Imu’s influence might manifest in the fruits themselves. Those Devil Fruits that have a black cloud around them may represent the powers under Imu’s control, while fruits with a white cloud, like Luffy’s, could symbolize resistance to Imu’s dominion.

This visual contrast might signify the two opposing forces: Imu, the ultimate devil, and Luffy, the symbol of freedom and rebellion.

However, Imu may not be an ordinary devil. A Japanese yokai, the Sea Devil (Umibōzu), may be the origin of Imu’s power. In One Piece, Devil Fruits are said to be incarnations of the Sea Devil. It’s possible that Nefertari Lili ate a Devil Fruit tied to the Sea Devil, allowing this ancient being, Imu, to possess her body. This possession could explain Imu’s vast power and immortality.

Brook plays Bink's Sake song (Image via Toei Animation)
Brook plays Bink's Sake song (Image via Toei Animation)

Folklore about the Sea Devil suggests it could be pacified by offering a barrel. It could be that Binks’ Sake, the legendary drink, may have been meant to calm the Sea Devil. Perhaps JoyBoy’s failure to deliver it led to the Void Century, plunging the world into darkness under Imu’s reign.

The parallels to Where the Wild Things Are offer another layer of insight. Like Max, who becomes king of the beasts, Imu commands the Gorosei, who resemble mythical creatures. Max’s longing for home mirrors Imu’s possible desire to return to a lost or hidden origin. It is possible that Imu’s ultimate goal could be to reclaim something forgotten from the past.


Final thoughts

Saint Imu as shown in the anime series (Image via Toei Animation)
Saint Imu as shown in the anime series (Image via Toei Animation)

Imu's true identity could merge the myth of the Sea Devil, Umibōzu, with the theory of possessing Nefertari Lili, offering a compelling explanation for Imu’s power, longevity, and control. This blend of folklore and history deepens One Piece’s mystery, setting the stage for a climactic revelation.


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Edited by Somava
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