Since the latest chapters of the One Piece manga, the Gorosei have been the center of discussion. The five sages of the World Government, who have ruled unchallenged for centuries, suddenly exhibit monstrous powers – Zoan-like demon forms with names that reach deep into mythological origins. In this theory, we analyze what is really known about their powers, what connection they have to Imu, and what their existence reveals about the Forgotten Century.
Who are the Gorosei? – The five shadows of the world government
The Gorosei, also known as the “Five Wise Men”, officially form the highest council of the world government. For a long time, they were regarded as politicians without any fighting power of their own. But since the Egghead Arc, it has become clear that they themselves are overpowering beings who follow no known logic. Their names – Saint Saturn, Saint Ju Peter, Saint Mars, Saint Warcury and Saint Nusjuro – are reminiscent of ancient deities and planets, hinting at a deeper symbolic meaning.
Oda confirmed that the Gorosei have existed for centuries, implying that they must be immortal or possess a power that allows them to outlast time itself. Their direct subordination to Imu suggests that they are not just servants, but protectors of an Elder order – an order that dates back to the Forgotten Century.
The demon forms of the Gorosei – beasts from mythology and darkness
In the latest chapters, Oda reveals their true forms for the first time: Each of the Gorosei transforms into a demonic being reminiscent of legendary monsters from ancient cultures. Their appearances resemble ancient yokai, demons and deities that symbolize power, destruction and immortality. All five apparently use mythical Zoan devil fruits – the rarest and most powerful species ever shown.
- Saint Jaygarcia Saturn – Form: Ushi-oni (cattle demon from Japanese mythology). Symbol of greed and control over life.
- Saint Ethanbaron V. Nusjuro – Form: Snow God or Yuki Oni; uses a katana made of energy. Symbol of cold and judgment.
- Saint Marcus Mars – Form: Aries demon; reminiscent of depictions of Baphomet. Symbol of sacrifice and power.
- Saint Shepherd Ju Peter – Shape: gigantic bird creature, possibly Garuda-inspired. Symbol for surveillance.
- Saint Topman Warcury – Form: Rhinoceros demon or war bull; stands for raw destruction.
All five share a common aura: black flames and smoke, reminiscent of the energy that also appears in Imu. Their “call” through the pentagram seal could indicate that they are connected to a higher power – perhaps the origin of the devil fruit itself.
Connection to Imu – guardians or creations?
Imu sits on the empty throne – a symbol that should not really belong to anyone. However, the Gorosei openly bow before him, showing their subordinate but reverent role. Their longevity and demonic appearance indicate that they were either created directly by Imu or bound by a divine power.
In Chapter 1085, it is revealed that Imu and the Gorosei may have jointly “betrayed” the ancient Queen Lily of Alabasta. This suggests that they already existed in the Forgotten Century. It is possible that their powers stem from the same source as the Devil Fruit – an energy that Vegapunk referred to as “wish manifestation”. This would make the Gorosei themselves walking incarnations of human fears and desires.
Symbolism: demons, stars and the cycle of the world
The name “Gorosei” (五老星) literally means “five ancient stars”. Their connection to planets – Saturn, Mars, Jupiter, Mercury – refers to astrological and religious symbolism: they represent the five elements or powers that rule the world. In many myths, demon forms are described as fallen gods – beings who possessed knowledge that was forbidden to mankind.
This parallel fits perfectly with the world government that wiped out all knowledge of the ancient kingdom. Their demonic power could therefore be a metaphor for the corruption of divine knowledge – once divine, now corrupted. The Gorosei thus embody the perverted side of “light” and “order”.
Reference to the antique weapons and Vegapunk
Some fans suspect that the Gorosei themselves are the “living seals” of the ancient weapons – beings that were once created to control Pluton, Poseidon and Uranus. Their supernatural origin, immortality and connection to Imu would explain this.
Vegapunk’s research on “soul and body” suggests that the Gorosei may be using ancient bodies whose consciousness has been preserved for generations. They could therefore be manifestations of the energy that the ancient kingdom once sought to banish – the ultimate knowledge born of control.
FAQ: Fan questions & theories about the Gorosei
How old are the Gorosei really?
There is no official figure, but there are many indications that they already existed in the Forgotten Century – over 800 years old.
Did the Gorosei eat devil fruit?
Yes, probably mythical Zoan fruits that give demonic forms and allow them immortality or regeneration.
Who is the strongest of the Gorosei?
Unclear, but Saturn (Ushi-oni) is considered the leader and mediator between Imu and the other sages.
Are the Gorosei immortal?
Presumably yes – either through their devil fruits or through a power that binds them to Imu.
Will the truth about them soon be revealed?
Yes, according to Oda’s own statement, we are “in the final saga”, in which the origins of the world government are to be explained.
In One Piece, the Gorosei embody the ultimate combination of knowledge, power and corruption. Their demonic forms reflect what humanity itself fears – immortal control. If they fall, the light that Joy Boy and the D-Clan once sparked could finally illuminate the world again.
Further One Piece articles:
- One Piece Theory: The meaning of the “D” – Origin, will & secret of the D-Clan explained
- One Piece Theory: The ancient weapons – Pluton, Poseidon & Uranus explained
- One Piece Theory: Dr. Vegapunk’s True Goal – Connection to Joy Boy, the Ancient Kingdom & the Will of the D.
- One Piece theories: Who is Imu really?
- One Piece: Who is the legendary character Joy Boy?
