The Untold Connection: How 'Zatoichi' Inspired George Lucas' Jedi in an Epic Twist of Fate

Warning! This post contains SPOILERS for Ahsoka episode 3

Summary

In Ahsoka episode 3, a new training technique called "Zatochi" is introduced, which urges Padawans to depend on their senses other than sight and the Force. This technique derives its name from the legendary blind swordsman, Zatoichi, from Japanese culture, highlighting the samurai inspirations within the Jedi.

Ahsoka's incorporation of the Zatochi archetype in Star Wars media not only emphasizes its importance in the franchise's canon, but also pays homage to the original inspirations of George Lucas. Lucas himself has acknowledged the influence of the Japanese Edo period and samurai culture, including the films of Akira Kurosawa, in shaping the Jedi. Finally, in episode 3 of Ahsoka, this significant samurai trope is given a name, further enriching the Star Wars universe.

In Ahsoka episode 3, Sabine Wren undergoes training with Huyang, an ancient Jedi Order droid. They focus on the fundamental forms of lightsaber combat. However, Ahsoka, Sabine's master, decides to adopt a different approach by utilizing the "Zatochi" training technique. This technique closely resembles the exercise that Luke Skywalker previously encountered during his lightsaber training in A New Hope. To physically obscure her vision, Sabine wears a masked helmet, replicating Luke's experience. In fact, she even references Luke when questioning the effectiveness of this method. Understanding the significance of the official name for this technique is crucial in recognizing its connection to George Lucas' influential inspiration for the Jedi.

Zatoichi In The Real World Explained

"Zatoichi" is a fictional blind swordsman created by novelist Kan Shimozawa. He was a samurai during the Japanese Edo period and traveled the world, often getting involved in the affairs of people facing terror and oppression. Between 1962 and 1989, 26 films featuring Zatoichi were made, along with a television series that first premiered in 1974.

The use of the "Zatochi" technique in Ahsoka seems to be directly inspired by this fictional blind swordsman. It is an exercise designed to encourage Padawans to rely on more than just their sight. They are encouraged to rely on their other senses and their connection to the Force, allowing them to anticipate their opponent's moves. It appears that Sabine was starting to understand this lesson, as she began trusting her other senses to block her master's attacks, similar to how Luke Skywalker did with the practice droid in A New Hope.

Star Wars Has Used Zatochi Since A New Hope

In addition to Luke's training on the Millennium Falcon in A New Hope, the samurai trope of "Zatochi" can be observed throughout the Star Wars canon. This trope extends beyond its original use as a training technique. A prime example is Jedi survivor Kanan Jarrus, who was blinded by the former Sith Lord Maul during the events of Star Wars Rebels season 2. Consequently, Kanan wore a mask until the final episodes of Rebels. Moving forward, he had to rely on the Force more than ever before, reaching a level of skill where he seemed to possess sight despite his blindness.

Similarly, Rogue One: A Star Wars Story introduced Chirrut Îmwe, a former Guardian of the Whills who joined the Rebellion shortly before the Battle of Scarif. Although Chirrut did not wield the Force as a Jedi, he had a deep connection to it and was blind like Zatochi. By trusting his other senses and harnessing the power of the Force, Chirrut successfully navigated through the galaxy. Thus, the Zatochi archetype is prevalent in Star Wars, not just limited to the training techniques employed by the Jedi Order.

Now The Name Itself Is Canon - Honoring George Lucas' Inspiration

The unveiling of the Jedi Order's traditional training technique, known as the canonical name, is incredibly thrilling. Its clever implementation as an Easter egg adds a satisfying touch, alluding not only to Luke Skywalker's initial training as the first Padawan shown on screen but also to the iconic characters who have embodied the Zatochi archetype within the established Star Wars universe. Most significantly, it serves as a clear homage to the original samurai influences that inspired George Lucas in creating Star Wars and the philosophical principles of the Jedi themselves.

As Ahsoka's storyline progresses, it will be intriguing to discover any additional revelations pertaining to the Jedi Order and the training of Padawans. Considering Sabine's incomplete training has been emphasized, it is likely that future episodes will showcase her ongoing dedication to honing her abilities and acquiring new skills under her master's guidance. Perhaps even the Mandalorian warrior and artist, Sabine, will finally tap into the Force, an aspect that has been subtly hinted at multiple times in the new Star Wars series.

Ahsoka releases new episodes Tuesdays at 6pm PT / 9pm ET on Disney+.