What Happens to Jedi Younglings Who Aren’t Selected for Further Training
In the Star Wars universe, the choice to become a Padawan is crucial for Jedi younglings. But what if a youngling is deemed unworthy of this sacred path? This question has sparked numerous discussions among fans, prompting scrutiny of canon and lore. In this article, we explore the myriad fates of Jedi younglings who aren’t selected for further training, from becoming part of the Jedi Service Corps to living ordinary lives as citizens.
Joining the Jedi Service Corps
A youngling who touches the power of the Force but isn't deemed ready to embark on the path of a Padawan is often redirected to the Jedi Service Corps. This step is seen as a crucial part of their development. The Temple's scientific, medical, and other divisions offer opportunities for these young Jedi to contribute to the galaxy in meaningful ways. These individuals remain within the Temple walls but do so in roles that are less about the warrior aspect of Jediism and more focused on support and service.
The Reassignment Council
Those who don’t immediately join the Jedi Service Corps are often referred to the Reassignment Council. This body decides the ultimate fate of younglings who aren't ready for a life of Jedi training. The council offers various paths:
Jedi Service Corps: Little has changed since the early days of the service. Younglings who join the Jedi Service Corps are often sent to agricultural or industrial sectors, serving the galaxy and their communities. This option allows younglings to develop skills and virtues that go beyond combat. Ordinary Life: If a youngling declines the offer to join the Jedi Service Corps, they are free to leave the Temple and the Jedi Order entirely. Many choose to live ordinary lives, away from the stresses and duties that come with being a Jedi. Their Force abilities, while not honed to the level of a Jedi, can still be a valuable asset in their new lives.The Dark Force User Paradox
The galaxy isn’t devoid of concerns about younglings with the Force who aren’t selected for Jedi training. Dark Force users, outcasts, or others might seize upon these younglings as potential recruits for the Dark Side. However, the Jedi Order is not dismissive of them. They recognize that a young Force-sensitive individual may not be ready for the rigors of Jedi training, and thus they give them a chance to grow and develop in a less directed manner.
Notable cases include Xanatos, Qui-Gon Jinn's first padawan in the Old Expanded Universe (EU), who became a Dark Jedi and later a CEO of a corporation. Although he was abandoned, the Jedi waited until his actions became detrimental to the Republic before taking action. Similarly, Ahsoka Tano remained part of the Jedi Order and continued to grow on her own terms, eventually choosing to leave the Order to pursue her own path.
Age and Timeline
The age at which a youngling is eligible for the Reassignment Council plays a significant role in their journey. Younglings under the age of 13 are often sent to the Jedi Service Corps until they reach the legal age of 18, as determined by Republic law. This age is crucial in their development, allowing them to build a foundation of skills and virtues that will serve them well in their future.
Conclusion
The fate of a Jedi youngling who isn’t selected for further training is complex and multi-faceted. Whether they join the Jedi Service Corps, actively seek life outside the Jedi Order, or remain independent learners, these individuals display a range of developmental paths. The Jedi Order, while attentive to the potential dangers of Dark Force users, ultimately seeks to nurture each youngling's unique journey, recognizing the virtues of patience and understanding.