What is the Four Gods theory in One Piece? Explore the significance of the theory and possible identities of the Four Gods.

Over its decades of airing, One Piece has mastered the art of creating deep lore and fascinating world-building. As a result, several theories related to the narrative have arisen. These have ranged from the identity of Imu to what the One Piece is. An equally intriguing theory that has picked up steam yet again after One Piece chapter 1138 is the Four Gods theory. So, what is the Four Gods theory in One Piece?
The Four Gods theory refers to characters who carry the powers of 4 mythical “gods” from history, present during landmark world events. Let us take a closer look at this.
Who Are the Four Gods in One Piece?
The Four Gods in One Piece were originally foreshadowed in Skypiea’s sacrificial altar and are relevant in the series again through Elbaph’s Harley Texts. They speak of the existence of four prominent figures throughout history – the Sun God, the Sea/Rain God, the Forest God and the Earth God.

As we now know, the Sun God is Nika, who is a legend in Elbaph and revered among slaves. According to the Harley Texts, the world has ended twice already and Nika was present for both instances. While this god had originally come as a liberator of the world, his presence enraged the Earth God and the Serpent of Hellfire. Together, they caused the destruction of the world.
Following this, society was rebuilt over several years, with the “Second World” likely referring to the Void Century. At this period, the Forest God had tamed demons while the Sun God (or his reincarnation) returned. Despite this, humans had become too powerful and killed this God yet again. The Sea God raged at this news.
Finally, the Third World is the current timeline following Luffy. It is prophesied that all gods will return, while Luffy, the Sun, will eventually cause a brighter future.
What Is the Four Gods Theory in One Piece?
We have now seen the importance of the Four Gods in the history of One Piece. Since they are expected to return in the current timeline, the Four Gods theory mainly speaks on the potential characters who carry the powers of these gods. Fans believe the chosen ones are:
1) Luffy – The Sun God

The only character confirmed to have the abilities of a god in One Piece is Luffy. Awakening his Devil Fruit in Wano, Luffy has the Hito Hito no Mi, Model: Nika. This lets him have access to every power of the original Nika.
Similar to Luffy, Joy Boy also carried this fruit, representing the Sun God of the Void Century. Rather than being the same Nika of history, however, these characters simply carry his powers and ideologies. They stand for freedom and justice but are still distinctive individuals.
2) Imu – The Earth God

Please note that apart from Luffy, no other identity of the gods has been revealed. However, the most likely candidate for the Earth God is Imu. Imu’s age is currently unknown, but they are believed to have existed since the Void Century.
They are heavily opposed to Nika and the Will of D., playing the role of a primary antagonist. Since the Earth God was the one who destroyed the First World, and Imu seeks to do the same for the current world with the Ancient Weapons, they perfectly fulfill this role.
3) Dragon – The Rain God

Very little is known about Dragon, including his abilities in the series. However, his presence is usually marked by rain, thunder, and heavy winds. He also shares positive feelings towards Luffy, much like the original Rain God, who is believed to be friendly with the Sun God.
Since Dragon is an enemy of the entire World Government and one of the strongest in the series, this position would fit him well.
4) Ryokugyu – The Forest God

Admiral Ryokugyu has been one of the most underutilized characters in One Piece. Apart from a brief stint in the Wano Arc, not much is known about him either. However, his powers perfectly align with the theoretical god of the forests.
With the Mori Mori no Mi, Ryokugyu can manipulate flora, instantly create forests, and even turn himself into a plant. Since the Forest God is believed to have played an antagonistic role in the Second World, Ryokugyu serving the World Government would be consistent with the role.
Is There a Fifth God in One Piece?

In addition to the Four Gods theory, there is a more popular theory that came recently. This was brought about by the revelation of the Harley Texts, which mentioned how Man killed the Sun and became God.
This introduces the possibility of a fifth god or the Man God. While it is possible that this was a general comment on the selfishness of humans, Oda is big on surprises. We have also seen potential candidates to fill this role.
The Five Elders are already called gods by some and have also displayed highly unnatural powers. Their role in eliminating the Ancient Kingdom and service towards Imu, or the Earth God, whose presence is vital for Man, would be exciting foreshadowing.

Another possible candidate is Blackbeard, whose origins and powers are highly enigmatic. Blackbeard gained his ability by killing Thatch and is the ultimate portrayal of greed. This would fit the criteria of a Man God, who claimed power for himself rather than being gifted with it.
Significance of the Harley Texts in One Piece

The reveal of the Harley Texts is one of the most impactful manga panels to ever be made. We have explored what the texts meant so far, but their significance needs to be spotlighted. These Elbaph scriptures suggest that One Piece is a post-apocalyptic world that has already ended twice.
Vegapunk had already mentioned how sea levels rose due to the Ancient Weapons, but the texts reveal much greater powers at work. Pairing them with the mysterious Mural, they are a guide to One Piece’s past, present, and future.
However, rather than causing the fandom to be underwhelmed by “spoiling” the series, it has set off a chain of theories. By including celestial forces and every single species in the overarching narrative, the texts reinstate the stakes of the One Piece universe.
Conclusion
The Four Gods theory in One Piece provides an exciting framework for understanding the deeper mysteries of the series. With Luffy’s connection to the Sun God Nika now confirmed, it seems likely that the other gods will have crucial roles to play in the upcoming arcs.
As we approach the conclusion of the story, Oda has displayed his mastery of writing yet again. Every fan is eagerly awaiting to see what other jaw-dropping revelations the creator has in store.
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