Jedi Attachments: A Philosophical Debate in the Star Wars Universe

The question of attachments in the world of the Jedi is a deeply debated topic, with numerous characters and philosophies reflecting varying views. The inherent nature of the Force and its impact on the Jedi leads to an exploration of the balance between discipline and emotional sensitivity.

Forbidding Attachments: Harnessing Strength

One perspective argues that the Jedi were misguided in their stance against attachments. Absolutely not, proponents of this view contend, for attachments can serve as a source of strength and continuity within the order.

"Not only would attachments strengthen the order but letting two Jedi marry and have children strengthens the ranks by having two established Force users bring in new blood as it by procreation."

The argument posits that the fear and anger associated with attachments are precisely the emotions that the Sith seek to exploit. By teaching Padawans and Knights to trust their relationships and the order, the risk of corruption can be mitigated. Yoda’s teachings and actions, including his expressions of grief, serve as a counterpoint to the absolutist stance against attachments.

Preaching Compassion, Practicing Attachment

The opposing perspective argues that attachment is inevitable, even for Jedi. Compassion, a key aspect of Jedi teachings, is intrinsically linked to the formation of attachments. Anakin's poignant contemplation of love within the Jedi Order underscores the futility of their stance against emotions:

"I guess you could say we are encouraged to love." - Anakin Skywalker

Yoda’s own expressions of grief over the loss of a fellow Jedi further illustrate the hypocrisy of the Jedi stance. Mace Windu’s statement in Rogue One: A Star Wars Story reinforces the idea that the Jedi’s fears of attachment are both a weakness and a vulnerability:

"Then our worst fears have been realized."

This internal conflict within the Jedi Order highlights the complexity of their philosophical approach, making a blanket prohibition on attachments impractical and potentially harmful.

The Soul of the Jedi Order

The fundamental premise of the Jedi's approach to attachments is not to ban them outright, but to control and manage them.

"The Jedi did not believe in ‘no attachments’; they believed in not forming deep attachments that you couldn’t control or would be too significant to let go of without pain and emotional turbulence."

The Temple's preference for orphans underscores the order’s recognition of the importance of emotional control. Trust and intimacy are crucial in the master-padawan bond, and these emotional connections are not inherently negative but must be managed carefully to prevent them from becoming defining and disruptive.

Padawans and Knights are encouraged to form bonds, but these must be balanced and controlled. The emotional bonds can be strong, often resembling familial relationships, but the Jedi are trained to recognize the potential challenges and maintain the discipline necessary to prevent these bonds from leading to chaos.

The Force and Emotional Turbulence

The Force, as a living and fluid conduit, influences and is influenced by all beings, including the Jedi. The fear of suffering the consequences of emotional turbulence highlights the complexity of the Jedi's position. The masters and elders act as role models, demonstrating the challenges and the importance of maintaining emotional balance.

"The Jedi knew that there was a limit to their detachment that some beings of certain ages form unbreakable, indelible bonds that follow them through life."

Qu catches a glimpse of this difficulty when he reflects on the pain of his own loss, almost falling to the dark side due to the intensity of his grief. The Sith, with their focus on fear and anger, also struggle with the exhausting nature of their emotional states, often seeking isolation to gain strength.

The Asceticism of both Jedi and Sith philosophies is a shared pursuit, but they differ in their approach to maintaining emotional equilibrium. No philosophy is perfect, and both systems are challenged by their very nature. The Jedi and Sith represent different sides of the same quest, each with its own strengths and weaknesses.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Jedi's approach to attachments is complex and multifaceted. While the order seeks to maintain emotional control, the inevitability of attachments makes a complete ban unrealistic. The Jedi recognize the importance of emotional bonds but must balance them with the demands of the Force and the preservation of their spiritual and martial integrity.

"We are Instruments of the Infinite Force. I hope this helps!"

Understanding the nuances of Jedi attachments offers a deeper insight into the Star Wars universe and the challenges faced by its inhabitants.