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ONE PIECE Analysis! – Summary of Family of D! What is the Will of D? Does it mean Dawn? Which characters have the name with D? Hypothesis include Laughing, Devil, Dragon, and Drum (Family of D)

ONE PIECE Analysis


The popular manga “ONE PIECE” by Eiichiro Oda has sold over 500 million copies. Among the key characters in the story are those with the middle initial “D” in their names. Terms like “family of D” and “will of D” frequently appear, hinting at underlying mysteries.

In this article, we thoroughly examine and analyze the enigmas and clues related to the “Family of D.”

First, let’s explain what the “Family of D” is.

The “Family of D” are the natural enemies of the Celestial Dragons (World Nobles). The image shows former Celestial Dragon Corazon (Donquixote Rosinante) explaining this to a young Law. Since the Celestial Dragons are considered gods in the world of ONE PIECE, the Family of D is sometimes described as “God’s natural enemy.”

ONE PIECE Eiichiro Oda / VIZ Media LLC

Former Celestial Dragon Doflamingo also referred to the Family of D as those who “continue to smolder in the depths of history.”

Imu, the ruler of the world, also refers to the Family of D as “those whose names we once opposed.” The Five Elders are wary of the Family of D, and in the Holy Land Mary Geoise, where the Celestial Dragons reside, children are taught that “naughty children will be eaten by the ‘D’.”

However, according to Imu, “the D that have emerged in recent years are empty shells who do not know their own meaning.” This implies that the name “D” holds significant hidden meaning.

ONE PIECE Eiichiro Oda / VIZ Media LLC

The Family of D is indeed a force capable of overturning the world from its very foundations. Characters like Silvers Rayleigh and Dr. Kureha speak meaningfully about the “Will of D,” suggesting that older characters who have lived long lives have a deep understanding of the Family of D’s past.

While this might draw parallels with the Revolutionary Army, characters with the name D do not necessarily aim to directly overthrow the World Government. Rather, it is the very “bloodline” of the Family of D that is despised by the Celestial Dragons. Why is the Family of D so hated?

The key to this mystery lies in the “Void Century,” a period of lost history.

The Void Century was a time when a “certain great kingdom” engaged in a fierce battle against the “20 kingdoms” (who later became the Celestial Dragons and World Nobles). The victorious 20 kingdoms established the current World Government, and this dominant, feudalistic world order has persisted to the present day.

The royal family that ruled this great kingdom was the “Family of D.”

ONE PIECE Eiichiro Oda / VIZ Media LLC

Moreover, the Family of D possessed a highly advanced civilization. They had numerous inventions that even the world’s greatest genius scientist, Vegapunk, couldn’t replicate. Notably, the mysterious vast energy that the Family of D utilized has somehow vanished in the present day. Were the Family of D a group of prodigies?

The Celestial Dragons were greatly fearful of the “ideals of D” being inherited.

ONE PIECE Eiichiro Oda / VIZ Media LLC

Thus, the Will of D ultimately signifies the “overthrow of the Celestial Dragons.”

The Celestial Dragons were oppressors of the people. In contrast, the Will of D likely represents the ideals of liberating and freeing people. For instance, Luffy defined the Pirate King as the freest person, which might indicate that he has inherited the Will of D.

The world ruler Imu, whom even the Five Elders cannot oppose, is often analyzed in the context of the French Revolution. The French Revolution was a violent struggle in which commoners overthrew the nobility, abolishing the class and feudal systems. It marked the beginning of democracy.

If we liken the Void Century to the French Revolution, it would imply that the victorious side (those who established democracy) are the Celestial Dragons. Conversely, the Kingdom of D must have been an era where freedom was celebrated. During that time, there was likely less racial discrimination, even towards Fishmen and Merfolk.

However, the 20 kingdoms (who may have been lower-class nobles at the time) united and ultimately eradicated the Family of D. The Kingdom of D likely maintained an advanced civilization, suggesting a wealth disparity with the surrounding kingdoms. The 20 kingdoms might have waged war against the Kingdom of D under the pretext of eliminating this disparity.

Next, let’s examine the “characteristics and abilities” of the Family of D.

One of the notable traits of the Family of D is their ability to hear the voices of massive creatures such as Sea Kings and Zunesha. While even the Fish-Men and Merfolk cannot hear the voices of the Sea Kings, characters with the name D can. For instance, when Roger and Oden spoke about the future over 20 years ahead, it was based on what they heard from the Sea Kings underwater.

ONE PIECE Eiichiro Oda / VIZ Media LLC

However, not every member of the Family of D can necessarily hear the voices of Sea Kings. Among the Family of D, only Luffy and Roger have been shown to hear the voices of Zunesha and the Sea Kings. Additionally, only Kozuki Momonosuke and Princess Shirahoshi have been able to communicate with these creatures. This suggests there might be differences in abilities even within the Family of D.

Another characteristic of the Family of D is their natural ability to attract allies. Mihawk praised Luffy for this trait, and it is evident in how Luffy, Roger, and Garp, who represent the Family of D, have a knack for gathering comrades. Although there might be exceptions like Law, this seems to be a common trait.

From Roger‘s remarks upon reaching Laugh Tale, it can be inferred that the Family of D might possess the qualifications to reach Laugh Tale and claim the “ONE PIECE.”

This could also explain why Shanks, who is not a member of the Family of D, did not aim for Laugh Tale.

Next, let’s explore another notable characteristic of the Family of D.

It is often pointed out that both Roger and Luffy share this trait: they are famous for “smiling broadly” in the face of death. The image is from the moment just before entering the Grand Line at Logue Town, where Luffy was about to be executed by Buggy.

When Luffy smiled in the face of death, Smoker of the Marines was reminded of Roger and began to tremble with fear.

ONE PIECE Eiichiro Oda / VIZ Media LLC

Similarly, Portgas D. Ace managed to muster a faint smile just before he was killed by Akainu (Sakazuki).

ONE PIECE Eiichiro Oda / VIZ Media LLC

In fact, on the internet, especially overseas, the smiley face emoticon is often represented as “:D.” If you tilt your head 90 degrees to the left, you’ll see that the “:” represents the eyes, and the “D” represents the smiling mouth.

Therefore, the shape of the “D” is essentially a smiling mouth. A smile is a symbol of “freedom.” The letter D, symbolizing the Family of D, represents their characteristic of being unbound by anything, even in the face of death.

In the Wano Country flashback, when Roger reached Laugh Tale and witnessed the ONE PIECE, he laughed because the treasure was so overwhelming. Although Roger couldn’t obtain it in the end, if the Family of D tends to laugh when faced with hardship, this is a significant trait.

ONE PIECE Eiichiro Oda / VIZ Media LLC

Conversely, this could imply that the true nature of the ONE PIECE is closely connected to the “tragic history of the D.”

How many characters currently have the middle name “D”?

As of now, there are over ten characters referred to as the “Family of D.” Here is a list of characters with the name “D,” along with brief descriptions of their status and background. For more detailed information, please refer to individual articles.

ONE PIECE Eiichiro Oda/Fandom

The first member of the Family of D is “Monkey D. Luffy.”

Luffy is the protagonist of “ONE PIECE,” the captain of the Straw Hat Pirates (Straw Hat Grand Fleet), and one of the Worst Generation (Super Rookies).

Initially thought to be a Gum-Gum Fruit user, it has now been revealed that he is actually a Mythical Zoan-type Human-Human Fruit (Model: Nika) user.

In the Void Century, Joy Boy was the one who awakened the Human-Human Fruit Model: Nika. If Joy Boy was a warrior who fought against the 20 kingdoms, it is likely that Joy Boy was also part of the Family of D. Considering his strong connection to Luffy, his full name might have been Monkey D. Joy Boy.

The next member of the Family of D is “Monkey D. Dragon.”

ONE PIECE Eiichiro Oda / Shueisha

Dragon is the Supreme Commander (leader) of the Revolutionary Army. As his name suggests, he is Luffy’s father. The Revolutionary Army is an armed organization established over 20 years ago to overthrow the World Government. Considering the history of the Family of D, Dragon’s actions best represent the essence of the Family of D.

Because of this, Dragon has been considered a significant threat at events like the Reverie from early on.

Next in the Family of D is “Monkey D. Garp.”

ONE PIECE Eiichiro Oda / VIZ Media LLC

Garp is a Marine Vice Admiral. Despite possessing Admiral-level strength, he remained a Vice Admiral for over 40 years due to his disdain for the Celestial Dragons, as Admirals are directly controlled by them. Consequently, Garp is considered one of the strongest in the Marines.

It might seem odd to have a Family of D member in the Marines, but about 40 years ago, Garp joined forces with Roger to defeat the infamous Rocks Pirates, earning numerous heroic tales. He also mentored future Admiral Aokiji (Kuzan), displaying the Family of D’s strong charisma.

As his name suggests, he is Luffy’s grandfather and Dragon’s father. It is said that Dragon’s name was chosen with the hope that he would overthrow the Celestial Dragons.

Next in the Family of D is “Portgas D. Ace.”

ONE PIECE Eiichiro Oda / VIZ Media LLC

Ace was the 2nd Division Commander of the Whitebeard Pirates and a Logia-type Flame-Flame Fruit user. He was the son of Pirate King Gol D. Roger and Portgas D. Rouge. After his parents’ deaths, Garp took him in, and he grew up with Luffy and Sabo as his brothers.

Ace pursued Blackbeard to avenge his crewmate Thatch, but was defeated in the duel on Banaro Island. This led to the Marineford War, where Ace ultimately perished at the hands of Akainu.

Next in the Family of D is “Gol D. Roger.”

ONE PIECE Eiichiro Oda / VIZ Media LLC

Roger was the captain of the Roger Pirates and the only pirate to reach Laugh Tale, earning the title of Pirate King 25 years ago. His final words in Logue Town ignited the Great Pirate Era. Roger was exceptionally strong among the Family of D, with a bounty exceeding 5.5 billion berries, still the highest in ONE PIECE history.

He was Ace’s father. After returning from Laugh Tale, Roger spent a mysterious year during which he met and had a child with Rouge. Ace was born two years after Roger‘s execution, with Rouge holding him in her womb for 20 months before dying from the strain.

Next in the Family of D is “Portgas D. Rouge.”

ONE PIECE Eiichiro Oda / VIZ Media LLC

Rouge was Roger‘s wife and Ace’s mother. Little is known about how she met Roger, but they likely met during Roger‘s mysterious final year after reaching Laugh Tale.

Roger wanted his child to find the ONE PIECE, possibly aiming to continue the Family of D lineage. Despite holding Ace in her womb for 20 months, she died after giving birth. Ace was then reluctantly taken in by Garp.

Next in the Family of D is “Marshall D. Teach.”

ONE PIECE Eiichiro Oda / VIZ Media LLC

Teach, known as Blackbeard, is the captain of the Blackbeard Pirates. His early life is largely unknown, but he was an orphan before being taken in by Whitebeard. He betrayed and killed Thatch to obtain the Dark-Dark Fruit, then formed his own crew and rapidly rose from a Warlord to one of the Four Emperors.

Despite his vile nature, Teach has a knack for attracting strong followers, similar to Luffy, highlighting a common trait within the Family of D.

Next in the Family of D is “Trafalgar D. Water Law.”

ONE PIECE Eiichiro Oda / VIZ Media LLC

Law is the captain of the Heart Pirates and a former Warlord of the Sea. Initially a minor character, he gained prominence after the Rocky Port Incident. The name “D” was a hidden name passed down through generations in his family.

Law is an Op-Op Fruit user and cured himself of a fatal disease. The fruit’s “immortality surgery” ability might have played a role in granting Imu immortality during the Void Century.

Next in the Family of D is “Jaguar D. Saul.”

ONE PIECE Eiichiro Oda / VIZ Media LLC

Saul is a giant and former Marine Vice Admiral. He questioned the Marines’ extreme justice and left, befriending a young Nico Robin and attempting to save her from the Marines’ Buster Call. He was frozen by his friend Aokiji but was later confirmed to be alive in Elbaf.

Saul’s presence suggests that the Family of D includes diverse races, possibly linking to the hidden giant straw hat in Mary Geoise.

Next in the Family of D is “Rocks D. Xebec.”

ONE PIECE Eiichiro Oda / VIZ Media LLC

Rocks was the captain of the Rocks Pirates, which included future Emperors like Whitebeard, Big Mom, and Kaido. He was the most feared pirate until his defeat by Garp and Roger 40 years ago, marking an interesting “Family of D vs. Family of D” scenario.

Given his connection to Hachinosu Island and Blackbeard, it’s hypothesized that Rocks might be Blackbeard‘s father.

The Nefertari family, including Nefertari Cobra and Nefertari Vivi, is also part of the Family of D. Nefertari Lili, who ruled the Alabasta Kingdom 800 years ago, was a key figure in scattering the Poneglyphs. This suggests the Nefertari family played a leading role within the Family of D.

ONE PIECE Eiichiro Oda / VIZ Media LLC

This lineage connection raises questions about other kingdoms, like the Goa Kingdom, possibly being related to the Family of D, indicating that even characters like Sterry could be part of this lineage.

ONE PIECE Eiichiro Oda / VIZ Media LLC

Just as the Celestial Dragons are composed of 20 noble families, it wouldn’t be surprising if the Family of D is also composed of a limited number of noble families.

Here are the known surnames within the Family of D:

  • Monkey
  • Portgas
  • Gol
  • Jaguar
  • Marshall
  • Trafalgar
  • Nefertari
  • Rocks

Currently, there are a total of eight known bloodlines in the Family of D.

Some speculate that the Family of D consists of nine royal families, based on the prophecy of “nine shadows” left by Kozuki Toki, who time-traveled from the past 800 years ago. Given that eight D families are currently known, the dramatic reveal of a ninth D family would make for a compelling plot twist.

ONE PIECE Eiichiro Oda / VIZ Media LLC

Considering Kozuki Oden’s last moments, where he smiled, it suggests he might share traits with the Family of D. His son, Kozuki Momonosuke, can communicate with Zunesha, surpassing the abilities of Luffy and Roger. Additionally, why did Kozuki Toki escape from the Void Century?

Therefore, it’s highly plausible that the Kozuki family is also part of the Family of D. As nobles and royalty, the daimyos of Wano Country would fit this profile.

Given this context, it raises the question: are nine royal families with the D name sufficient?

In hexadecimal notation, the letter “D” represents the number 13. Hexadecimal is a base-16 numbering system that uses 16 symbols (0–F). In programming languages, for instance, “D” is the 13th character when counting from 0.

In Western cultures, the number 13 is often considered unlucky and is associated with bad omens, sometimes referred to as the “uninvited guest” based on Norse mythology and Christian traditions. This makes the number 13 fitting for the “Devil.”

Therefore, it’s plausible to predict that the Family of D comprises a total of 13 royal families. While “D” in Roman numerals stands for 500, this number seems excessive for our context and is therefore discounted.

Another interesting hypothesis is the relationship between the Family of D and the mathematical constant pi (π).

The English word for “radius” translates to “radius,” often abbreviated as “R” in mathematics. However, “diameter” is denoted by “D.” When the lowercase “d” is rotated 180 degrees, it resembles the letter “p,” which in mathematics stands for the constant π. Pi represents a circle, symbolizing a continuous, cyclical nature akin to reincarnation.

The letter “D” might symbolize concepts like “fate’s continual flow” and “history repeating itself.” Additionally, in Chinese, π is pronounced as “Law,” hinting that Trafalgar Law might have been a deliberate part of the Family of D narrative from the start.

Next, let’s delve into the meaning of “D.”

The most likely meaning of “D” seems to be the English word “Dawn.” In Japanese, “Dawn” translates to “夜明け” or “明け方,” indicating the breaking of dawn. This suggests a nuance of overthrowing the dark era ruled by the World Nobles and paving the way for a truly bright future.

In fact, the title of the first episode of “ONE PIECE” is “Romance Dawn.” This implies that the meaning of “D” was part of the initial concept from the beginning of serialization. It’s highly likely that the ending of “ONE PIECE” was envisioned even before the series began. Oda is truly remarkable.

ONE PIECE Eiichiro Oda / VIZ Media LLC

Furthermore, the sound effect “Dōn” that symbolizes “ONE PIECE” is said to have originated from “Dawn” as well. This sound effect is persistently used in every episode, and while it may have seemed repetitive at times, it actually harbors profound meaning.

During the Wano Country arc, the sound effect was replaced by “Beben,” likely as a deliberate artistic choice. Considering the historical relationship between the Kozuki clan, who created the Poneglyphs, and the Family of D, portraying the motif of “the dawn of a corrupt world” in Wano Country might seem unnatural.

Pedro of the Mink Tribe, who once made a promise with the Pirate King Roger, also explicitly used the expression “dawn.” Given the deep connection between the Mink Tribe, the Kozuki clan, and the moon, it seems almost certain that the hypothesis “D meaning ≈ Dawn” is correct.

ONE PIECE Eiichiro Oda / VIZ Media LLC

Now, let’s consider the relationship between “D” and the moon.

While “D” appears to resemble a smiling mouth, it could also symbolize the shape of the moon, specifically a “crescent moon” partially obscured by shadow. The goal of the Family of D was to bring about “Dawn,” signifying the breaking of night. Conversely, the moon is visible because the night hasn’t fully ended yet.

Upon reflection, there are numerous depictions of the moon throughout “ONE PIECE.” Moon-related imagery subtly appears in the background, often as frequently as the exchange sound “Dōn.” The scene in the image is titled “Crescent Moon,” emphasizing the connection.

Even after being defeated by Luffy, God Enel’s last scene depicts him heading towards a “giant full moon,” with his memorable line “Let’s go. To that divine world.” Eventually, Enel reaches the moon, where a mysterious ancient city with advanced technology is discovered.

ONE PIECE Eiichiro Oda / VIZ Media LLC

Considering that the Kozuki clan created the Poneglyphs, including the names of the lords under their command (such as the Shimotsuki family), the connection to the moon is evident. If we assume that Poneglyphs are made of moon technology or minerals, many aspects begin to make sense.

At the very least, there seems to be a strong connection between the moon and “D.”

So, who exactly are the “Family of D”?

One possibility is that the Family of D are descendants of the “Moon People.” However, since the shape of “D” resembles a “crescent moon,” it’s not necessarily a direct lineage of the Moon People, but rather a hypothesis that they are “half-bloods” of Moon People and Earthlings.

The costumes worn by the Celestial Dragons, who despise the Family of D, also hint at a somewhat “spacesuit” design. Therefore, the presence of the Celestial Dragons also seems somewhat reminiscent of the moon. When juxtaposed with Enel’s expression “Moon ≒ Divine World,” various connections start to emerge.

ONE PIECE Eiichiro Oda / VIZ Media LLC

In essence, it’s possible to interpret both the Family of D and the Celestial Dragons as having “originally the same roots.”

Conversely, if we assume that the Celestial Dragons, wearing spacesuits, are “Earthlings,” then the Family of D could be seen as “extraterrestrial beings” who arrived from the moon. Could the Family of D have brought advanced scientific technology to Earth? If so, it would be possible for them to scientifically create Devil Fruits.

Another hypothesis suggests that the Moon People (Family of D) brought giants and fish-men to Earth. The reason Sea Kings can only communicate with the Family of D could be explained by the hypothesis that the Ds were brought from the moon. At the very least, the hypothesis that Sea Kings cannot communicate with fish-men because they are “extraterrestrial beings” seems the most natural.

Next, let’s delve into the “Dragon” Hypothesis. Building upon the connection between the Celestial Dragons and the Ds.

One interpretation of the meaning of “D” is “Dragon.” Indeed, the emblem of the Celestial Dragons, known as the “hooves of the sky-soaring dragon,” is based on the motif of a dragon. There are also legends of dragons arriving in Wano Country hundreds of years ago.

In the world of “ONE PIECE,” dragons have already frequently appeared, from Kaidou’s Devil Fruit to the artificial dragons on Punk Hazard. There must have been a time when dragons flourished. Could this have been during the Void Century?

In other words, could the true identity of the Family of D be “Dragons”?

However, it’s hard to discern any “dragon elements” in any of the members of the Family of D. While it would be different if they had scales on their skin, both Luffy and Blackbeard are just “ordinary humans.” Still, given the prevalence of dragons in the story, it seems like a wasted opportunity to completely disregard this theory.

For instance, it’s possible that the name “Celestial Dragons” was originally used by the Family of D themselves. Perhaps, following the defeat of the Family of D 800 years ago, the title of “Celestial Dragons,” which had been claimed by the Family of D, was usurped by the later world nobles? This perspective would make the transfer of political power in the world smoother.

Although the Celestial Dragons currently proclaim themselves as gods, could it be that over 800 years ago, the beings who were actually treated as “divine” were the Family of D? This is another aspect that could be considered.

Next, let’s consider the “Drum” Hypothesis.

In “ONE PIECE,” Drum refers to the “Drum of Liberation.” It’s a term that appears in Binks’ Sake lyrics, referring to the Drum of Liberation.

ONE PIECE Eiichiro Oda / VIZ Media LLC

Details about this were revealed after Chapter 1043 of ONE PIECE. When the Human-Human Fruit (Model: Nika) enters its awakened state, the heartbeat changes to the sound “Don Dot Dot.” That’s the sound effect of the Drum of Liberation. Considering Zunesha‘s words as well, it’s akin to the heartbeat emitted by Joy Boy.

Joy Boy was an individual who played a significant role during the Void Century and was presumably a user of the Nika fruit. While it’s unclear if past candidates like Kaidou were indeed Joy Boy, they, like the Family of D, were pivotal figures destined to bring about the dawn of the world.

ONE PIECE Eiichiro Oda/Fandom

Generally, a Drum refers to a musical instrument frequently used in rituals and ceremonies. It holds significant importance in shamanism, capable of awakening various spirits.

Similarly, in “ONE PIECE,” the Drum of Liberation serves as a trigger to awaken the power of the Sun God, Nika. The iconic heartbeat sound was pivotal in this regard. Dawn refers to the “sunrise,” making it the most likely interpretation, but in terms of symbolism, Drum carries a similar meaning.

Thus, considering the wide range of associations evoked by the letter D, it might not be tied to a specific word but rather encapsulate various intentions. The possibility that D stands for “the initial sound of hitting a Drum, ‘Don'” is entirely plausible.

Next, let’s delve into the “D = Devil” Hypothesis.

Personally, I’ve largely overlooked this theory, but could the meaning of “D” actually be “Devil”? For instance, individuals who consume the “artificial Devil Fruits (SMILE)” experience a side effect where they uncontrollably laugh upon failure. The primary component of these SMILE fruits is a substance known as “SAD.” Ironically, SAD means “sadness” in Japanese, yet it forces individuals to smile even in the saddest situations.

On the other hand, as mentioned earlier, members of the Family of D often smile before their demise. It’s not easy for any notorious pirate to readily accept death. While this portrayal could be a depiction of the supernatural aspects of the Family of D, could it be that they were a people who couldn’t smile in times of sadness?

Upon learning the true nature of ONE PIECE, Shanks shed tears, and Roger burst into laughter, but deep down, did Roger also want to cry? Indeed, tears seemed to well up in Roger‘s eyes. Perhaps the side effects of SMILE were simply manifestations of the “bloodline or characteristics of the Family of D”?

In essence, there’s a possibility that the “souls of the people who once lived in the D kingdom” are contained within the “contents” of Devil Fruits. Was the Family of D once a gathering of powerful ability users? Did the Celestial Dragons, who once fought against the Family of D, name them “Devils” out of fear? It’s unclear when Devil Fruits came into existence, but it’s possible that they were created by the Family of D 800 years ago to counter the Celestial Dragons.

For instance, could the Family of D, who possessed special abilities, have sacrificed their lives to imbue their souls into fruits in exchange for the ability to defeat the Celestial Dragons? Considering the scarcity of surviving members of the Family of D, it’s possible that most of them were wiped out in exchange for the mass production of Devil Fruits.

Doflamingo seemed to know everything about the “past grudges” between the Family of D and the Celestial Dragons, including the secret of the giant straw hat in the Holy Land Mary Geoise. Therefore, it’s highly likely that he coined the names “SMILE and SAD” as a deliberately ironic twist.

Hence, Doflamingo might be the one to ultimately reveal the secrets of the Family of D.

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