The Only Pirate Proposed to Replace Garp
There was once a serious idea discussed within the Navy: if one of the pirates were to join the Navy, the only person who could take the place of a legendary figure like Garp would be Jinbe. Because Jinbe is not only powerful, but also one of the few pirates who can act in the name of peace and justice. This fishman, who could sit at the same table as giants like Whitebeard, was a name that even the World Government occasionally wanted to see as a mediator.
Beyond Being a Fishman Character
Jinbe's fish-man nature is not merely a biological trait; he was a true turning point in the history of fish-men. He inherited the ideals of Fisher Tiger, a former slave, and became the only leader to not only spread these ideals among fish-men but also among humans. Instead of inheriting hatred, he chose to reflect on it and strive to change it.
Former Commander of Arlong
Most people don't associate Arlong with Jinbe, but in fact, Arlong fought under Jinbe's command. Jinbe's decision to leave Arlong behind and become a Shichibukai also played a role in Arlong's radicalization. So Jinbe's rise indirectly triggered Arlong's descent into darkness. This remains one of the most complex and dramatic paradoxes of Jinbe's life.
His Departure from Big Mom Was Not Silent
When Jinbe left Big Mom's crew, he was not a man who walked away without looking back. His departure had a significant impact in Totto Land because loyalty was a one-way street in Big Mom's world. Jinbe, however, chose to pursue freedom. Moreover, he managed to escape while protecting the other crew members. For this reason, he remained in Big Mom's eyes as the “first pirate who dared to betray for the sake of freedom.”
His Loyalty to Luffy Is More Than Just Respect
Jinbe's loyalty to Luffy is not a simple captain-crew member relationship. After Ace's death at Marineford, it was Jinbe who gathered Luffy's scattered pieces and reminded him of his responsibility to exist. He didn't just protect him; he also rebuilt him psychologically. Without Jinbe, it is doubtful that Luffy would even be standing today.
He Renounced His Shichibukai Rank
Jinbe did not use the Shichibukai title given to him by the government, nor did he allow anyone else to use it. To him, this title was nothing more than a bargain that tarnished the reputation of the fishmen. Although he accepted it for a time to prevent harm to his people, he broke free from this bond at the first opportunity. After Whitebeard's death, he even rejected his rank and openly chose sides—a direct challenge to the world government.
The Man Who Talks to the Sea
With his Fishman Karate, Jinbe does not rely solely on physical strength. He literally talks to the sea. He can steer currents, destabilize enemy ships, or direct massive bodies of water as if they were clay in his hands. In battle, this ability gives him a strategic advantage that can change the tide of a naval battle.
The Assassination Attempt on Jinbe
During the chaos on Fishman Island, some aristocrats around the royal palace were disturbed by the bonds Jinbe had formed with humans. They even plotted to assassinate him, claiming he was corrupting the “purity” of the fishman race. Jinbe learned of this but chose to forgive them instead of seeking revenge—because for him, true victory lay in showing mercy in the face of hatred.
One of the Shichibukai with the Lowest Bounty
When Jinbe was selected as a Shichibukai, his bounty was still quite low. While other pirates were wanted for millions of berries, his name was listed with a much smaller amount. However, the government was well aware of his power and influence over the people. It wasn't just Jinbe's fists that were considered a threat, but the ideas he represented. That's why he was invited directly, despite his low bounty.
He Didn't Just Respect Whitebeard, He Protected Him
Jinbe showed his loyalty to Whitebeard in the Battle of Marineford not only with words, but by shielding him with his own body. He was one of those who protected Whitebeard's back during the most intense moments of the battle. For many, Whitebeard was a fearsome giant, but for Jinbe, he was a symbol of freedom and honor. That's why standing by his side was not a matter of fearing death for Jinbe, but of defying it.
He stood up to Akainu alone
At Marineford, Jinbe faced Akainu's flaming fist while trying to rescue Luffy. Jinbe didn't think about the difference in their strength and stepped right in. His body was badly burned, but he didn't let go of Luffy. That moment was not only a physical test, but also a spiritual one. Jinbe's self-sacrifice was a turning point that made him a “true captain” in the eyes of many in the pirate world.
For Him, Loyalty Is Not a Luxury, But a Responsibility
Jinbe's understanding of loyalty does not change with time or circumstances. Whether fighting for his fishman race or sacrificing himself for Luffy, he acts with the same seriousness. In his eyes, loyalty is not a means to an end but a necessity of life. He keeps his word, and when he turns his back, it is always to protect his people.
He Rejected the Kingdom Offer on Fishman Island
After Queen Otohime's death, the fishmen offered Jinbe the role of leader. However, he refused because he believed the people needed equality, not a leader. Instead of becoming a political figure, he chose to bridge the gap between humans and fishmen. This decision allowed him to remain one of the people and earned him even more respect.
Jinbe's Experience as a Captain
Unlike Arlong, Jinbe had actually led a crew. He was the leader of the Sun Pirates and managed each member individually. None of his crew blindly followed his decisions because Jinbe always discussed every decision before making it. For him, being a captain wasn't about giving orders but about working together to chart a common course.
The Only Person Who Sees Luffy as an Equal, Not a Captain
When Jinbe joined Luffy's crew, many thought he could claim the title of captain due to his seniority and wisdom. But Jinbe never considered it because he saw Luffy as an equal from the start. In fact, Jinbe was often the one who responded most calmly to Luffy's decisions and guided him most clearly toward the right path. This relationship was a rare example of mutual respect in the world of pirates.
Jinbe's Fins Are Used Like Weapons
Jinbe's physique is not only massive physical strength, but also gives him natural advantages in sea battles. He uses the fins on his back not only for maneuverability, but also to direct water attacks with sudden turns in battle. In some fight scenes, he has even used his fins as shields, a feature that sets him apart from ordinary fishman fighters.
Pirates Afraid of Jinbe's Shadow
Some pirates in the New World changed their course upon hearing Jinbe's name. For fish-man crew members in particular, his presence was both a legend and a threat. Because Jinbe wasn't just physically strong; he was a force capable of disrupting others' plans with his ideals. Many dark pirate crews chose not to operate in the regions he controlled.
A True War Strategist
Jinbe is one of the rare characters who fights not with brute force but by thinking like water. In situations such as dividing the enemy lines at Marineford, organizing the escape from Impel Down, and securing an exit with naval battle tactics at Whole Cake Island, he acted not only as a fighter but also as a war strategist. This places him not only as a fighter but also as an advisor in Luffy's crew.
Imprisoned for Years, But Unbroken
During his imprisonment in Impel Down, Jinbe was different from the other prisoners. He did not lose his mind or control. Throughout that time, he continued to think, observe, and even plan for future possibilities. He prepared himself not just as a prisoner, but as a figure who would take the front lines in battle when the opportunity arose.
He Respects Even His Enemies
The most striking aspect of Jinbe's fighting style is the measured respect he shows his enemies. After a fight, instead of mocking or seeking revenge, he often adopts a warning stance toward his opponent. For him, true victory is not winning the battle but achieving a balance that renders battle unnecessary. This aspect of his character makes him almost a philosopher in the world of pirates.
His Silent Agreement with Nami
Jinbe plays a major but behind-the-scenes role in Nami's confrontation with her Arlong past. Rather than apologizing outright, he shows his remorse through his actions. In particular, his overly cautious and gentle attitude toward Nami shows that he recognizes the trauma Arlong caused and wants to make amends. This is a rare example of an emotional but unspoken bond in One Piece.
The Quietest “I'm Here” Moment
Jinbe enters the scene when Luffy shouts, “Our new nakama!” as he arrives in Wano. However, this scene is one of the quietest but most applauded moments in the series. Jinbe doesn't want the spotlight, but when he's there, the weight of the scene completely changes. Even without declaring that he's joining the crew, he was already part of that family.
A Pirate, But Never a Plunderer
Jinbe's pirating is not based on plunder or fear. He charts his course solely for freedom and justice. Protecting a village or standing up against injustice is more valuable to him than carrying treasure. That's why he is referred to as an “honorable defender” rather than a “warrior” within the crew.
He Hasn't Shown His Full Power Yet
Among One Piece fans, there is a widespread belief that the power Jinbe has shown so far is only a fraction of his potential. A battle where he fully demonstrates the advanced techniques of Fishman Karate or the strategic moves he can perform with water has yet to be seen. Therefore, the moment when Jinbe “breaks through his limits” in the potential major battles after Wano is eagerly anticipated.