The Meaning Behind Every Jedi and Sith Symbol in Star Wars

Introduction

There are a lot of Jedi and Sith symbols littered throughout Star Wars, though many have gone unexplained. The Force is the heart of Star Wars in more ways than one. Not only is it the reason for the existence of the Jedi and Sith Orders, but the cosmic duality and delicate balance between light and the dark is the main theme of Star Wars itself. As such, there have been a lot of symbols of both sides of the Force in every piece of media the franchise has produced.

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The symbols of the light and dark sides of the Force are not merely limited to symbols of the Sith and Jedi themselves. Different governments represent different aspects of the Force. While there is a level of gray in each government, overall there is a definitive divide. This divide is at the very heart of Star Wars. While individual Star Wars movies, shows, comics, and books have their own plots, the Star Wars franchise as a whole has a mega-plot that focuses on the battle between light and dark. As such, there are symbols of this divide in every bit of Star Wars content, and here are all of them explained.

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Symbols of the Light Side

The symbols of the light side of the Force hold deep significance in the Star Wars universe. They represent freedom, democracy, and the glory days of the Jedi. From the emblem of the High Republic era to the symbol of the Rebellion, each holds a unique meaning linked to the light side of the Force. The wings on these emblems represent freedom and life, emphasizing their strong association with the light side of the Force.

Star Wars New Republic Senate chamber room

The Republic and the New Republic both embody the ideals of democracy and freedom, making their symbols intrinsically linked to the light side of the Force. Despite their flaws, these governments signify a return to balance and a rejection of the oppressive nature of the dark side. Similarly, the Rebel Alliance, with its dedication to overthrowing oppressive systems and reinstating democracy, bears symbols that reflect its alignment with the light side of the Force.

Star Wars Jedi Council

The gods of Mortis, including the Daughter and the Bendu, also represent the light side of the Force in their unique ways. The Daughter's selfless sacrifice and the Bendu's neutrality between the light and dark sides further emphasize the complexity of the Force and its manifestations.

Star Wars The Clone Wars Jedi High Council Yoda Obi-Wan Kenobi Kit Fisto Ki Adi Mundi Shaak Ti Mace Windu

Symbols of the Dark Side

In contrast to the symbols of the light side, those of the dark side of the Force exude power, control, and a preoccupation with dominance. The emblem of the Empire, with its totalitarian nature and Sith leadership, serves as a stark representation of the dark side. Similarly, the symbol of the First Order, a successor to the Empire, reflects its association with the Sith and the dark side of the Force.

Star Wars' Palpatine with Jedi Council

The Sith Crest and the symbols associated with the Sith Eternal embody the violent and destructive nature of the dark side. These symbols, characterized by sharp, aggressive imagery, are clear representations of the Sith order and its values. The Son, a manifestation of the dark side, is depicted as emotional and unpredictable, embodying the archetypal traits of a Sith.

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The Balance of the Force

The concept of balance within the Force is intricately woven into the symbolism of the Jedi and Sith. The Father, a manifestation of the neutral side of the Force, plays a crucial role in maintaining the delicate balance between the light and dark. His children, the Son and the Daughter, represent the dark and light sides, respectively, with their actions and traits reflecting the core principles of the Jedi and Sith.

The logo for Star Wars' Rebel Alliance next to Princess Leia from A New Hope

The Bendu, residing in the middle ground between the light and dark sides, symbolizes the balance and harmony within the Force. His existence as a being that springs from the delicate balance illustrates the complexity of the Force and the intricate relationships between its manifestations.

Saw Gerrera and Star Wars Rebel Alliance in Andor