For non Star Wars fans: the Star Wars films are loosely based on the story of Muhammad, the Prophet of Islam (peace be upon him). The first of the films "A New Hope" begins with a man (Luke Skywalker) who lives in a solitary desert village engulfed in corruption and evil. Luke becomes the unlikely leader of the revolutionaries who not only overthrow the dark forces in the desert but the whole universe. This story has many parallels with the story of Prophet Muhammad, also a quiet individual brought up within a corrupt desert village, destined to bring the light of God to the whole universe. Other links to Islam include the use of Muslim clothing from Morocco, called the Djellaba, worn by the Jedi.
The principles of the Jedi, selflessness, mindless happiness, being at one with the Force and courage, are fairly well known. These are all Islamic principles of life, the Force as understood by Muslims is, of course, the Ever living, Pervading, Creator, Maintainer of the Universe and Lord of All the Worlds - Allah (meaning the one and perfectly beautiful creator).
I will list the principles and attitude with which the Jedi live below, but if I did not explain how they find their strength, there would not be much point. Of course, the Jedi, as in the films are fictional. Muslims, however, are real and this is what they rely on:
The Salat. It is a practice that Muslims begin their day with, end it and during the busy hours in the middle. On the surface, it is known as the Muslim form of worship.
The details of the actions, words and intent to which can be understood through these lessons:
In short, the Salat focusses the mind, by connecting mind, body and soul, so that it becomes aware of our umbilical connection to the creator of the universe, that in fact, allows us to be at one with the whole universe. Without it, we are blind to our true, fulfilling purpose.
The Salat is based on human nature which the Creator understands best. It requires us to stand or prostrate in various position, each with their specific words, encouraging a reaction from our spirit and so waking it up. In this heightened state of awareness, the soul becomes aware of the power of Allah and is encouraged by Allah to use that power for good.
I think that'll do for now. Any further questions, please ask. Here are those principles that Muslim/Jedi live by:
1. As Jedi, we are in touch with the Living Force flowing through and around us, as well as being spiritually aware of the Force. Jedi are trained to become sensitive to the Force's energy, fluctuations, and disturbances.
2. Jedi live and focus on the present; we must neither dwell on the past nor be overly concerned about the future. As the mind wanders, focusing on the present is a task not easily attained, for the mind is not content with the eternal present moment. As Jedi, we must release our stress and ease our minds.
3. Jedi must maintain a clear mind; this is achieved through meditation and contemplation. Our minds can become cluttered and infected by forces and attitudes that we encounter every day, and must be purged of these unnecessary elements on a daily basis.
4. As Jedi, we are mindful of our thoughts... we focus our thoughts on the positive. The positive energy of the force is healthy for the mind, body and spirit.
5. As Jedi, we trust and use our feelings. We are intuitive, more so than others and with this heightened intuition we become more spiritually evolved as our minds become more harmonious with the Force and its influences.
6. Jedi are patient. Patience is elusive but can be consciously developed over time.
7. Jedi are mindful of the negative emotions which lead to the Dark Side: Anger, Fear, Aggression, and Hate. If we sense these emotions manifesting within ourselves, we must meditate on the Jedi Code and focus on purging these destructive emotions.
8. Jedi understand that physical training is as important as training the mind and the spirit. We understand that all aspects of training are necessary to maintain the Jedi way of life and to perform the duties of a Jedi.
9. Jedi protect the peace. We are warriors of peace, and are not ones to use force to resolve a conflict; it is through peace, understanding and harmony that conflicts resolve.
10. Jedi believe in destiny and trust in the will of the Living Force. We accept the fact that what seems to be random events are not random at all, but the design of the Living Force of Creation. Each living creature has a purpose, understanding that purpose comes with a deep awareness of the Force. Even things that happen which seem negative have a purpose, though that purpose is not easy to see.
11. Jedi must let go of obsessive attachment, both material and personal. The obsession over possessions creates the fear of loosing those possessions, which can lead to the Dark Side.
12. Jedi believe in eternal life. We do not become obsessed in mourning those who pass. Grieve as you will but take heart, for the soul and spirit continue in the netherworld of the Living Force.
13. Jedi use the Force only when it is necessary. We do not apply our abilities or powers to boast or be prideful. We use the Force for knowledge, and exercise wisdom and humility in doing so, for humility is a trait all Jedi must embody.
14. We as Jedi believe that love and compassion are central to our lives. We must love each other as we love ourselves; by doing this, we envelope all life in the positive energy of the Force.
15. Jedi are guardians of peace and justice. We believe in finding peaceful solutions to problems, gifted as we are we remain negotiators of the utmost ability. We never negotiate out of fear, but never fear to negotiate. We embrace justice, protecting and preserving the fundamental rights of all living creatures. Empathy and compassion are vital to us; it allows us to comprehend the wounds caused by injustice.
16. We as Jedi make a commitment to, and are loyal to the Jedi cause. The ideals, philosophies, and practices of the Jedi define the belief of Jediism, and we take action on this path for self-improvement, and to help others. We are both the witnesses and protectors of the Jedi way by the practice of our Faith.
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