The true One Piece may be just a place

Modified Oct 30, 2024 16:30 GMT

The true One Piece may be just a place (Image via Toei Animation)

The true nature of the One Piece treasure has sparked countless theories among fans, many of which suggest it may not be a tangible item but rather a place, such as the remnants of the legendary Ancient Kingdom.

In this theory by X user @writingpanini, the actual treasure is a lost civilization sunken beneath the ocean and erased from history by the 20 kings who formed the World Government.

Drawing on the lore of Joy Boy, the D. family, and parallels to real-world myths like the land of Mu, this perspective suggests that Luffy’s journey could ultimately reveal a hidden world rich in history, unity, and freedom.

The Ancient Kingdom may be the One Piece treasure

The Ancient Kingdom (Image via Toei Animation)

In this theory by @writingpanini, the One Piece treasure is the remnants of the Ancient Kingdom, which may have sunk beneath the ocean, possibly by the 20 sovereign kings who formed the World Government.

This Kingdom believed to have been advanced, threatened the rulers of that era, who allegedly wanted to erase it from history. Born in this Kingdom, Joy Boy may have become a pirate to survive an impending flood, promising to rescue his Kingdom with Noah's ship. However, his mission failed, and the Kingdom submerged, potentially creating Fishman Island beneath the sea.

The members of the D. family (Image via Toei Animation)

The D.family seems to symbolize the "Dawn," dedicated to restoring the Kingdom, sometimes called the Sun Kingdom, back above the sea. Imu, possibly the Sea Devil "Umibozu," could be responsible for sinking this Kingdom during the Void Century, creating the Red Line that divides the world’s oceans.

This concept is reinforced by parallels with the legendary sunken land of Mu, near Japan, which was said to be the ancient Sun Kingdom. The Land of Mu’s ties to Japan, the "Land of the Rising Sun," connect to the Wano country and its samurai, gold, and isolationist culture.

The city of Shandora (Image via Toei Animation)

A broader connection appears with the Seven Cities of Gold myth, aligning with places like Shandora, which resemble El Dorado. Zunisha may carry the remnants of the Ancient Kingdom on the ocean floor, while the world itself, with scattered islands, could be what remains of a united Pangaea-like landmass.

The destruction of the Red Line would reunite the seas into "All Blue" and potentially reveal the Seven Cities of Gold, the One Piece, hidden just under the ocean. This would explain Roger’s laughter and why the treasure is indeed real but unreachable at the ocean’s depths.

What are the other theories on the One Piece treasure

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The Ancient Kingdom Theory presents a compelling narrative where the Ancient Kingdom, a highly advanced civilization, was destroyed by the 20 sovereign kings who later formed the World Government.

This backstory aligns with the series’ lore surrounding the Great War, reflecting a powerful conflict where the Ancient Kingdom’s ideals and technology threatened those in power.

Silhouette of Joy Boy (Image via Shueisha)

Joy Boy’s connection to this Kingdom, especially his failed promise to rescue it with the Noah ship, adds emotional depth, suggesting themes of loss and redemption. Symbolically, the D family., viewed as the "Dawn" or a revival of the Ancient Kingdom’s ideals, resonates with fans eager to see a restoration of truth and freedom.

Apart from the above theory, there have been alternative theories on the treasure. Alternative theories offer varied perspectives. The "God's Kingdom" theory posits the Ancient Kingdom as a utopian society suppressed by the Celestial Dragons. In contrast, others suggest Wano may itself be a remnant of this lost Kingdom due to its isolationist policies and ties to Poneglyphs.

The Wano Country (Image via Toei Animation)

The Grand One Piece Tree theory speculates that ancient trees symbolize lost knowledge, proposing that uniting these could reshape the world. Lastly, the All Blue Concept aligns with Luffy’s journey, suggesting that uncovering One Piece might represent unity and freedom across all seas rather than material treasure. Each theory offers a unique take on the legendary treasure, contributing to the ongoing mystery surrounding the treasure.

Final thoughts

The mystery of One Piece being a place rather than mere treasure deepens the lore, suggesting a hidden legacy beneath the ocean. Whether it’s the Ancient Kingdom, a united "All Blue," or a symbol of freedom, these theories enrich the story with layers of history and intrigue.