The connection between the Jedi Order in Star Wars and Christianity
For thirty-one years, the Star Wars franchise has brought people infinite hours of entertainment with: movies, video games, comic books, toys, and non-fiction books. However, one recurrent theme that is constant throughout the movies and books is a belief in a higher power. In Star Wars, the Jedi and the Sith believed in the Force. The Jedi believe in using their faith in the Force for the greater good. Most of their belief structure is closely based on some aspects of early and modern Christianity.
One Jedi aspect that is closely tied to early Christianity is the rule of two. In the fictionally adaptation of George Lucas’s Star Wars Episode 1: the Phantom Menace, the Jedi Grand Master Yoda states, “Always two there are….a master and an apprentice” (Brooks 320). Master Yoda is referring to the order of the Sith, but the same reference can also be made about the Jedi. A Jedi Knight handpicks a Padawan (apprentice) to pass on all their knowledge, to protect each other, and to grow in the ways of the Force. This aspect can also be found in the Bible, in the book of Mark 6:7, “Jesus called the twelve to him, and sent them out in pairs” (Qtd in Peterson 1834). Dick Staub suggests that Jesus did this so that the disciples could unlearn what they have learned to this point in their lives, so that they could fully rely on God for everything; much like the Jedi rely on the Force (Staub 118). Jesus sent six pairs of his disciples, “He gave them the authority and power to deal with the evil opposition” (Qtd in Peterson 1834). This is just like to Jedi Order. The Jedi came to serve the Galactic Republic as guardians of peace and justice (Lucas Online). The disciples had almost the same mission. The disciples went and preached peace to everyone, “They sent demons packing, they brought wellness to the sick, anointing their bodies, healing their spirits” (Qtd in Peterson 1835). The Jedi did not heal...