In 1977, George Lucas introduced a movie that has permeated many different cultural traditions. “Star Wars” didn’t just transform science fiction movies, it also worked its way into religious beliefs. Jediism was inspired by the first movie, but it wasn’t until about 2001 that it gained public attention when people in English-speaking countries recorded it as their religion on official census documents. On December 18 of this year, “Star Wars: Episode VII” will be released in the United States. It’s one of the most anticipated movies of the year. Learn more about the Jedi religion to understand more about the “Star Wars” phenomenon.
What Does a Jedi Believe?
Jedis do not worship George Lucas or the movies. Being a Jedi goes much deeper than simple hero-worship of the movie franchise. In one of the movies, Obi-Wan Kenobi tells Luke Skywalker to “use the force.” The Force is the underlying nature of the universe that is more like a metaphysical power found everywhere. The three tenets of Jediism:
- Focus
- Knowledge
- Wisdom
According to the tenets, when used in the right way, a Jedi follower can overcome any obstacle. It’s important to focus on the task you are doing. Patience and judgment are applied to every situation.
Teachings of Jediism
Jedis actually have 16 teachings that guide their worldview. A Jedi remains open to knowledge and new experiences. Through meditation, it’s important to maintain a clear mind. Training and diligence keep a Jedi from being overwhelmed with what is happening in the world. A Jedi is taught to live in the moment, adapting and changing to events as they happen.
A Jedi is taught to live humbly, without material and personal attachments. When a person obsesses over losing something, whether it is a relationship or possession, it traps them in depression. Jedis cannot live in this state.
Although Jedis are taught to use their skills to the best of their ability, a Jedi must also realize his or her own limitations. Taking responsibility for failures and learning modesty and humility are important virtues for a Jedi. Patience and integrity are vital to be able to live as a Jedi. It does not matter how a Jedi serves, just that he or she does so with compassion and peace. Even small deeds influence the world.
A Jedi is taught to choose battles carefully. There are times to fight for the greater good and times where action cannot be taken. Intervention is not always the best scenario. Jedis learn to be mindful of their thoughts and to act with empathy when they do need to step in.
Jedis believe in a separate religion and government. Freedom is vital, in speech, association, and expression. A Jedi is taught to be a positive influence on society while maintaining harmony and discipline. Through the Force, a Jedi finds his or her pure motive, knowing that actions without a direct purpose have no meaning.
The Jedi Census Phenomenon
At one time, it was suspected that marking Jedi as a religion on the census was kind of a joke or a protest, but the movement is gaining awareness. In England, the 2011 census numbers revealed that about 176,000 people considered Jediism as their religion, which was down quite a bit from the 2001 census. However, these people are likely to be more serious about being a Jedi.
The Star Wars movie is bringing Jediism back to the forefront. Philosophically, the Jedi religion is thought to include tenets from many different faiths. Its official creed was adopted from the “Prayer of St. Francis of Assisi.” It does have some very balanced beliefs that can help any individual find his or her own path in today’s society. Despite the fact that people may have checked the Jedi box on the census in the beginning, it’s gaining momentum as a viable religious movement.