Zen and the Art of Being Jedi: Star-Wars and the Mystical Aspects of the Force.

» Gorgonqueen2 - Star-Wars and the Mystical Aspects of the Force.

I think there are aspects of many religious faiths in the Jedi cosmology. The main religious influences seem to be Christianity and Buddhism. Yoda is sort of like a Buddhist, John the Baptist figure who prepares the coming Christ (Luke Skywalker) for his temptation by the AntiChrist (Darth Vader). Darth, of course, was corrupted when young by the evil Emperor Palpatine (Satan) who is corrupt and wicked to the core, totally beyond moral redemption.

I see the 'Force' as being very similar to the Chinese concept of Chi-a living, vital, spiritual force that is within and around all of us. Those who learn to control and manipulate the Force, become Jedi Masters, those who abuse it become Sith Lords. This is the Buddhist aspect of the Star Wars religion and the most important part of it, as the Force gives much power to those who learn to control it.

There will always be those who abuse martial arts and use their skills to hurt others. But there are others who adhere to the moral code of the martial arts, and accept the discipline and hard work it takes to be a true practitioner of them. The Force is no different.

'Fear leads to anger, anger leads to hate, hate leads to suffering'. (Master Yoda, Star-Wars).

-- posted by Gorgonqueen2