Striving to understand what defys understanding

'The Force is what gives a Jedi his power. It's an energy field created by all living things. It surrounds us and penetrates us. It binds the galaxy together.' - Obi-Wan Kenobi

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The Force is both a natural and mystical presence, it is an energy field that both suffuses and binds the entire galaxy. The Force is generated by all living things, surrounding and penetrating them with its essence. Like most forms of energy, the Force can be manipulated, and it is the knowledge and predisposition to do so that empowers the Jedi Knights--and the Dark Jedi. For there are two side to the Force: The light side encourages great knowledge, peace, and an inner serenity; the dark side is filled with fear, anger, and the vilest aggression. Yet both sides of the Force, the life-affirming and the destructive, are part of the natural order. Through the Force, a Jedi Knight can see far-off places, perform amazing feats, and accomplish what would otherwise be impossible. A Jedi's strength flows from the Force, but a true Jedi uses it for knowledge and defense--never attack. The Force is a powerful ally, however it is used.

There are three major Force skills: control, sense, and alter. Only Force-sensitive living things can master Jedi skills and the techniques that they control, but the training to reach full Jedi status usually requires much time and great patience. Control is the ability of a Jedi to control his or her own inner Force. With this skill, a Jedi learns to master the functions of his or her own body. The sense skill helps Jedi sense the Force in things beyond themselves. Jedi learn to feel the bonds that connect all things. "You must feel the Force around you," Jedi Master Yoda once told Luke Skywalker. "Here, between you... me... the tree... the rock... everywhere!" The alter skill allows a Jedi to change the distribution and nature of the Force to create illusions, move objects, and change the perceptions of others.

A Dark Jedi gives in to his or her anger. "If you once start down the dark path, forever will it dominate your destiny," Yoda warned Luke. Emperor Palpatine, on the other hand, urged Luke to continue down the path of blind fury and aggression. "Give in to your anger," he told Luke. "Strike me down with all of your hatred and your journey toward the dark side will be complete."