Joy Boy's Haki knot in One Piece teases connections with Nami and more

In One Piece Chapter 1122, released on August 5, 2024, the revelation of a Haki-infused knot tied by Joy Boy introduces a fascinating new layer to the series lore, potentially linking the ancient technology of Birka to pivotal characters like Nami.

This mysterious knot, which played a crucial role in repelling the Elders and saving the Thousand Sunny, hints at deep connections between Joy Boy’s legacy and Birkan technology, previously hinted at through Weatheria and Nami's weather-based powers. As Blackbeard moves to exploit Caribou's knowledge, the story teases further revelations about Joy Boy’s mysterious past and the powerful forces at play in the current era.

One Piece: The ancient history of knots and their symbolism

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To start, we examine the ancient history of knots in Egyptian mythology. Knots were believed to serve as amulets, imbued with the power to "bind and release magic." Among the most renowned is the Tyet Amulet, which was revered for its ability to ward off those who sought to harm its bearer.

In a similar vein, the knot employed by Emeth in Chapter 1122 of One Piece functioned as a potent protective ward, strong enough to not only force the Gorosei back into their human forms but also to send them hurtling back to Marie Geoise.

This raises intriguing possibilities regarding the method the Gorosei used to teleport to Egghead. The sight of a marine witnessing the circle for the first time hints at a connection to some form of ancient magic.

One Piece: Mythological parallels and the concept of Eternal Return

Luffy as shown in his Gear 5 form (Image via Toei Animation)

Another significant knot in mythology is the "Gordian Knot," said to be created by a divine being. According to an oracle, whoever could unravel this knot would gain control over the known world.

The story resonates with the apology uttered by Emeth in One Piece: "Joy Boy, I’m sorry I couldn’t make you king!" This line evokes thoughts of destiny and the formidable power associated with the unraveling of knots.

Before diving into the crux of the theory, let’s consider the concept of "Eternal Return"—the idea that events repeat themselves cyclically. Emeth's repeated experiences of déjà vu with Luffy could be a manifestation of this concept, possibly linking back to the ongoing Void Century war.

The Birkan technology and its potential origins in One Piece

Kuma had sent Nami to Weatheria during the timeskip (Image via Shueisha)

The first time we encounter knots being used to store and release energy is on Weatheria, which prompts us to examine their technology more closely to understand the origins of these knots. According to his Vivre card, Haredas, a key figure associated with Weatheria, hails from the Sky Island of Birka.

This ancient city, once home to Enel, was destroyed by the wrath of the lightning god. It stands to reason that before Haredas left Birka, he studied ancient technology passed down from the original Birkans. Further evidence of this connection can be seen in the machines found on Weatheria, particularly the bubble-like machine with a cylindrical base, which bears a striking resemblance to technology seen on the Moon Birka.

This machine could have been a method of harnessing different types of energy, a theme echoed in the advanced technology present on Weatheria, some of which even resemble the Mother Flame.

The Ancient Kingdom (Image via Toei Animation)

This leads us to a compelling theory that the knot technology originated in ancient Moon Birka. Given the connections between these technologies, it’s plausible that Birka was once an ally of Joy Boy during the Void Century. It’s conceivable that the ancient Birkans taught Joy Boy how to store his Haki within knots, a technique that revolves around the storage and release of energy.

Could this Birkan technology have spread to other parts of the world? Perhaps even influencing the design of the "World’s Worst Battleship," Pluton. Imagine the potential of its cannons, possibly connected to strings that store the most powerful Haki of Joy Boy’s allies, ready to be unleashed in battle. Moreover, the Red Line itself might be a colossal knot encircling the world. Destroying it could potentially set the world free, releasing centuries of pent-up hatred and oppression.

Nami and Zeus as shown in the anime series (Image via Toei Animation)

The scientists of Weatheria are likely safeguarding this technology, knowing that its study could earn them a one-way trip to a vertical Buster Call. This theory also suggests a deeper connection between Nami and Birka or the ancient Birkans.

Could this be why Enel fixated on Nami and wanted to take her to the Moon? Perhaps she carries ancient Birkan heritage, akin to Haredas and Enel. Nami might hold the key to unlocking the secrets of this ancient technology, especially with Zeus by her side, potentially aiding her in understanding the legacy of the Birkans.

Final thoughts

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

To sum up, the knot technology may have been created by the ancient Birkans, and Joy Boy likely allied with Birka during the Void Century. Nami might be connected to Birka, possibly through ancient heritage. This theory offers a fascinating lens through which to view the intricate web of connections within One Piece, hinting at deeper mysteries yet to be unveiled.