The Hidden Truth Behind the "Gum-Gum" Fruit
For centuries, the World Government concealed the true identity of the Devil Fruit now possessed by Monkey D. Luffy. While believed to be the Paramecia-type Gomu Gomu no Mi, it is the Mythical Zoan-type Hito Hito no Mi, Model: Nika. This fruit was pursued for 800 years.
The Reincarnation of Joy Boy and the Sun God Nika
The Hito Hito no Mi, Model: Nika, transforms the user into the legendary "Sun God" Nika, a symbol of freedom. Joy Boy, an ancient figure from the Void Century, was the previous user. Luffy's awakening links him to Joy Boy's legacy.
- Luffy's transformation aligns with Nika's purpose of freeing the oppressed.
- The nature of Gear 5 symbolizes the clash between liberation and the World Government's oppressive rule.
The Historical Fear of the Void Century
The Void Century, a 100-year period of history the World Government suppresses, is a primary source of fear. Luffy, as the successor to Joy Boy through the Nika fruit, is seen as key to unlocking these forbidden secrets. Their attempts to eliminate Nico Robin, who can read the Poneglyphs, highlight their fear.
Luffy's Previous Defiance and Rising Threat
Even before awakening his fruit, Luffy challenged the World Government's authority:
- Assault on a Celestial Dragon: Attacking Saint Charlos provoked a strong military response.
- Impel Down Infiltration: His successful infiltration caused significant embarrassment.
- Defeating Warlords: By defeating Warlords, Luffy disrupted the balance of power.
- Target of Assassination: An order for CP0 to assassinate Luffy in Wano highlighted their desperation to prevent his awakening.
The Will of D.: An Inherited Hatred
The initial "D" in Luffy's name concerns the Five Elders, who view those bearing it as dangerous. This lineage connects Luffy to other rebellious figures who opposed the World Government.
The Impact of Gear 5's Public Reveal
The public nature of Luffy's Gear 5 awakening, broadcast globally despite attempts to stop it, was particularly alarming.
| Feature | Public Perception (Gomu Gomu no Mi) | Hidden Reality (Hito Hito no Mi, Model: Nika) |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Paramecia | Mythical Zoan |
| Power Origin | Fruit grants user rubber properties. | {Link: One Piece Fandom Wiki https://onepiece.fandom.com/wiki/Gomu_Gomu_no_Mi} |
| Awakened Form | N/A | Liberating Warrior with cartoonish, reality-bending powers. |
| Historical Significance | Low-tier fruit, renamed to hide true nature. | Directly linked to the Void Century and Joy Boy. |
| Threat to Elders | Moderate, as a pirate. | Existential threat to the World Government's foundation. |
Conclusion: The Uncontrollable Force
The Five Elders' fear of Luffy stems from his embodiment of chaotic freedom symbolized by the Sun God Nika, a challenge to their world order. He represents suppressed history and feared rebellion. Gear 5 is the realization of their fears, a power they cannot control, broadcast globally. Despite centuries of effort, Luffy threatens to unravel their rule. For further reading on the fruit's origins, consult {Link: the One Piece Fandom Wiki https://onepiece.fandom.com/wiki/Gomu_Gomu_no_Mi}.