Warning! Spoilers ahead for Ahsoka episode 6.
Summary
In Ahsoka episode 6, the Nightsisters of Dathomir are introduced. These ancient beings, predating the Jedi and Sith, harnessed the power of the dark side of the Force and traversed galaxies on hyperspace whales. This revelation raises the possibility that the dark side may have existed within the Force prior to the emergence of the light side, thus questioning the belief that the dark side is inherently corruptive.
The possibility that the Nightsisters' existence suggests is that balance in the Force entails equal representation of both the dark and the light, rather than the complete eradication of darkness. In Ahsoka episode 6, a shocking answer was provided to one of the oldest dark side-related questions in the Star Wars universe. The true nature of the Force has always remained a mysterious concept. Some believe that the dark side is a corruption of the Force, a malignant force that, if left uncontrolled, would lead to the destruction of all life in the galaxy. On the other hand, some argue that both light and darkness are necessary for balance and coexistence. This naturally brings about a simple inquiry: did the light side or the dark side come first?
Anakin Skywalker, also known as the Chosen One, possessed the power to restore equilibrium to the Force. However, the Star Wars films fail to elaborate on the true implications of this prophecy, prompting ongoing discussions among fans. Intriguingly, Ahsoka episode 6 - titled "Far, Far Away" - potentially sheds light on this enigma.
Ahsoka Suggests The Dark Side Came First
Ahsoka has rewritten the history of Star Wars by unveiling that the Nightsisters of Dathomir predates both the Jedi and the Sith. Upon reaching the distant planet Peridea in another galaxy, Sabine Wren and her captors encounter the Great Mothers, three exiled Nightsisters who have managed to survive there. In episode 6 of Ahsoka, it is revealed that the Nightsisters previously rode the purrgil, known as hyperspace whales in the Star Wars universe, to travel across galaxies. They utilized magic to manipulate the dark side of the Force long before the existence of the Jedi and the Sith.
With the new revelation that the Nightsisters originated from a completely different galaxy and made their way over countless eons ago, their distinct use of the Force in comparison to those aligned with the dark side becomes clearer. This newfound knowledge concerning the Nightsisters' origins potentially suggests that the dark side of the Force may have been in use within the main Star Wars galaxy even before the advent of the Jedi. Consequently, it is plausible that the rise of the light side of the Force occurred as a means to balance out the presence of the dark side, rather than the other way around.
Is The Dark Side A Natural Aspect Of The Force?
If the dark side of the Force existed before the light side, it implies that the dark is a natural part of the Force, rather than something separate from it. Many people view the dark side as corrupting, while the light side is seen as selfless and protective of life. George Lucas himself believed that the light side is about growth, evolution, and sustaining life. However, dark side users are often seen as selfish and unconcerned with the well-being of others, making them a harmful and unnatural presence within the Force.
If the ancient Peridean Nightsisters used the dark side long before the Jedi embraced the light, it suggests that the dark side has always been a part of the Force, rather than something created out of selfish desires. This notion implies that true balance in the Force involves an equal representation of both the light and dark sides, rather than the complete elimination of darkness. This is further supported by the depiction of the Prime Jedi in Star Wars: The Last Jedi, who is situated between darkness and light. The exact origins of the Force may forever remain a mystery, but new information can shed light on different interpretations, as exemplified by Ahsoka.
Ahsoka releases new episodes Tuesdays at 6 pm PT / 9 pm ET on Disney+.
