Warning! This article contains spoilers for Ahsoka episode 8.
Summary
Anakin Skywalker's appearance in the World Between Worlds confirms his identity as a Force ghost, imparting Ahsoka with her ultimate lesson. The manifestation of darkness within Anakin's Force ghost likely parallels Ahsoka's perception and the impact of the World Between Worlds.
Anakin's strength in the Force and his role in bringing balance can be sensed by others, despite his invisibility as a Force ghost.
Hayden Christensen's Anakin Skywalker's appearance in the World Between Worlds during Ahsoka episode 5 is widely celebrated as one of the greatest moments in Star Wars history. However, there remains a veil of mystique surrounding this event. The World Between Worlds is not well-known, with only limited information provided in Star Wars Rebels. Therefore, when Ahsoka, portrayed by Rosario Dawson, encounters Anakin in this realm, it remains uncertain whether she is witnessing his Force ghost or if the Force itself is projecting an illusion of him into Ahsoka's subconscious mind.
By the conclusion of Episode 5 of Ahsoka, the answer to this question remains uncertain. Viewers are only shown the beginning of Anakin's instruction that leads to a transformation in Ahsoka's character development, transitioning her from Ahsoka the Gray to Ahsoka the White. The World Between Worlds holds an aura of cosmic Force mysticism, suggesting that any answer could be feasible. However, the mystery persisted until the finale of Ahsoka, where Star Wars finally reveals Anakin's identity within the World Between Worlds.
Anakin's Force Ghost In Ahsoka Episode 8 Confirms The Truth
Does Anakin Skywalker's Force Ghost Still Have Darkness In Him?
Anakin's appearance as a Force ghost to Ahsoka in Ahsoka episode 8 finally confirms that he was indeed the Force ghost she encountered in the World Between Worlds. The way in which Anakin's Force ghost interacts with Ahsoka on Peridea provides solid proof that he was the one who imparted her with the crucial final lesson, especially when he witnesses her passing it on to her own Padawan. The enigmatic nature of the World Between Worlds allowed him to manifest without the customary blue luminescence associated with Force ghosts, thus preserving the mystery until his ultimate appearance in Ahsoka's finale.However, why did Anakin's Force ghost still harbor darkness? Perhaps the enigma lies within the World Between Worlds itself. This realm appears to take shape based on an individual's perceptions, suggesting that Ahsoka's perception of Anakin's darkness may have influenced his existence as a Force ghost. This notion holds particular weight for Ahsoka, considering her previous encounter with the World Between Worlds, wherein her surroundings affected her experiences and transitions, both drawing her in and pulling her back to reality through the waters of Seatos.
Anakin's Force ghost in Ahsoka episode 5 may have been influenced by the World Between Worlds and Ahsoka's thoughts, helping her learn her lesson. What's noteworthy is that others can sense his presence, even if they can't see him, like Jacen Syndulla and Sabine when they mention hearing and seeing "shadows" related to him. Anakin's strength in the Force has always made this possible, and now he has played a part in restoring balance by guiding his Padawan, Ahsoka, towards finding inner harmony. All episodes of Ahsoka are available for streaming on Disney+.