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One Piece has always been quite mysterious, and Imu, the secret Ruler of the World Government, has always been one of the most enticing mysteries. Questions about Imu's nature and origin have ignited endless theories from fans. After a huge build-up of the Straw Hats getting ready to confront Imu in chapter 1151, previously mild theories and speculation have become much more serious.
The chapter left fans with more questions than answers after witnessing Imu being able to transform Giants into demons and demonstrating Conqueror's Haki. This behavior leads to theorizing whether Imu's powers and strength are the more ancient source of strength.
One of the compelling theories is that Imu is actually King Solomon or has the Human-Human Devil Fruit based on him. Imu shows an ability to dominate the demons, and their secret ownership over the Earth might parallel Solomon's own legendary control of spirits.
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Disclaimer: This article is a speculative theory and reflects the writer's opinion. It also includes spoilers from the One Piece anime/manga.
How King Solomon could be Oda's inspiration for Imu in One Piece, explained
One Piece is a series characterized by rich lore and symbolism in its storytelling, with most of its elements inspired by mythology, religion, and historical figures. Among its most enigmatic characters, Imu is at the center of fan theories given its elusive nature and great powers.
Chapter 1151 of the manga again increases the suspense, as Imu demonstrates abilities that seem unnatural even by One Piece standards—transforming Giants into demons and producing what appears to be black lightning.
Although numerous theories seek to describe who or what Imu is, one theory that has some weight behind it is that Eiichiro Oda was inspired by King Solomon, more particularly Solomon of occult legend. This theory suggests that Imu could be in control of the Human-Human Devil Fruit, Model: King Solomon.
The initial and most apparent parallel is found in King Solomon's control over demons. In the Testament of Solomon, a pseudepigraphical work, Solomon is given a divine ring from the archangel Michael. The ring, inscribed with the Seal of God, gave Solomon power over demons so he could call upon, question, and enchain them to do his bidding.
Imu seems to exhibit parallel powers. In the current manga chapters, Imu exhibits powers indicating control over demonic power. One of the most important scenes depicts the Giants being transformed into grotesque creatures—figures that appear to be corrupted or possessed.
If Imu does possess the Human-Human Fruit based on Solomon, then being able to manipulate creatures that reflect demons in appearance and power would be appropriate. Just as Solomon employed demons to construct the Temple, Imu might be employing these dark creatures to impose a God-like order upon the world.
Use of grimoires in One Piece
Another relevant connection is the use of a grimoire, especially the one attributed to Solomon himself: The Lesser Key of Solomon. Lemegeton Clavicula Salomonis catalogues 72 demons that Solomon was said to have bound and used in service.
Imu's recent behavior in chapters hints at utilizing some form of esoteric information—perhaps a book or scroll—by which demonic forces are controlled or invoked.
Devil Fruits in One Piece tend to have odd rituals or changes; such a mythic fruit could readily permit one to gain access to such a "book," i.e., an interface of magic by which demonic-like beings can be invoked and wreak havoc. This would be consistent with the application of grimoires in any other fantasy or manga narrative, as both a power source and a medium.
A third and very symbolic association is the Circle of Solomon. Also within the same grimoire, the circle is a ceremonial implement—a place delineated with divine names and defensive sigils, intended to protect the summoner from harm by the creatures they control. Within Solomonic tradition, a sorcerer remains within the circle during invocation so as to maintain spiritual dominion and command.
In One Piece, the ritual circles are not used with an explicit purpose in relation to Imu, but the symbolism of being in a "safe" position above everyone else is ideal for this. Imu is on the Empty Throne, which is intended to remain empty to symbolize equal rule. But Imu fills it in secret, out of sight from the world, and unleashes overwhelming power from a hidden place, much like a magician within a magic circle.
It's not merely a matter of being powerful; it's a matter of being invincible. The magic circle gives protection while calling up supernatural power, and the Empty Throne gives Imu figurative and literal cover.
In addition, Solomon is identified with godly wisdom, having dominion over both mankind and spirits, and as a mediator between the mortal and divine. Imu plays a similar role—one who acts as a mediator between the natural order of the world and the supernatural chaos behind history.
The Void Century, the existence of the Poneglyphs, and the World Government's attempts to conceal Imu's presence all point to a being greater than human, a being with power over life, history, and even myth.
If this character consumed the Human-Human Fruit, Model: Solomon, then their longevity, mystery, and manipulation of powers beyond others' comprehension would be narrative perfection.
Final thoughts
Imu’s representation in One Piece aligns itself very nicely with the mythical realm of King Solomon. From controlling demons to concealing why they are ruling from the Empty Throne, many things that Imu does surround Solomon's ring, grimoires, and circumambulating magical circles. Chapter 1151 only reinforces the claim, as the powers of Imu being purposeful and mythic seem all too obvious and could not be random.
Whether or not this theory proves true, it's still a fascinating framework to think about Imu's god-like dominion over the world—an influence that mirrors King Solomon’s command over spirits and divine authority.
Related links:
- Sanji will get Conqueror's Haki by One Piece's end
- Imu may have returned the Giants to their original forms in One Piece chapter 1150
- Imu's abilities in latest One Piece spoilers may be inspired by this beloved movie
