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Would you want a Jediism section in the New Religious Movements DIR?

Would you want a Jediism section in the New Religious Movements DIR?

  • Yes

    Votes: 8 53.3%
  • No

    Votes: 7 46.7%

  • Total voters
    15
  • Poll closed .

Quintessence

Consults with Trees
Staff member
Premium Member
What bad would come of it? Well, considering we have zero people on RF that identify as Jedi (to my knowledge - nobody has that listed as their religion who is active), and DIRs may only be posted in by adherents of the listed group, it would basically create a new directory that would never get used.
 

Terese

Mangalam Pundarikakshah
Staff member
Premium Member
Why does it matter if inspiration is "ripped" from a movie, and what does Scientology have to do with anything? (that's some more rude language there, by the by)

Have you actually looked into the religion, or talked with people who have been involved with it?
No, I have not. jediism Is a philosophy to me. I won't be participating in this thread anymore.
 

Theweirdtophat

Well-Known Member
What bad would come of it? Well, considering we have zero people on RF that identify as Jedi (to my knowledge - nobody has that listed as their religion who is active), and DIRs may only be posted in by adherents of the listed group, it would basically create a new directory that would never get used.


Well Wizanda said he was a Jedi or at least follows some principles. But how many active Jains do you see? How many active Rastafari do you see? Not too many yet they have a DIR? But to say it would never be used is simply not true. It would be used even by non Jedi? I've posted in The Baha'i and Christian DIR yet I'm not Baha'i or Christian. It's not like the DIR is restricted to only the people who practice the faith. It's supposed to be a section where people can discuss it.
 

Saint Frankenstein

Wanderer From Afar
Premium Member
Well Wizanda said he was a Jedi or at least follows some principles. But how many active Jains do you see? How many active Rastafari do you see? Not too many yet they have a DIR? But to say it would never be used is simply not true. It would be used even by non Jedi? I've posted in The Baha'i and Christian DIR yet I'm not Baha'i or Christian. It's not like the DIR is restricted to only the people who practice the faith. It's supposed to be a section where people can discuss it.
No. The DIRs are supposed to be where people who identify as members of that faith discuss it among themselves, while outsiders can ask respectful questions. It's supposed to be a break from the messiness of the Debate sections.
 

Theweirdtophat

Well-Known Member
No. The DIRs are supposed to be where people who identify as members of that faith discuss it among themselves, while outsiders can ask respectful questions. It's supposed to be a break from the messiness of the Debate sections.


See this is what I don't understand. How many people would you have to have to make a DIR anyway. There's no Rastafari I know of that makes posts. Even back then, Rastafari were very rare yet there was a DIR of it? And there's already at least 1 adherent to Jediism or at least someone who knows the practices. Has it occurred to other that perhaps by creating it, it will attract new members as well? If you display some of the information of Jediism, it may not only attract members here but it can also attract people who have never been to this site before and they see a Jediism section to make posts in.
 

Theweirdtophat

Well-Known Member
I think the main reason they wouldn't want it is not because there's only a couple members but because it's fiction. If Jediism didn't come from any fictional source I think more people would be willing to add it. Because it makes no sense since there's almost no Rastafari here yet they have a DIR. I really don't see any reason not to add it as it doesn't take up a massive amount of space and can help this forum but attracting members from the inside of this forum as well as people from the outside when they look at this forum.
 

wizanda

One Accepts All Religious Texts
Premium Member
Imagine if all the Vedas were really originally from a fictional story, or the Greek mythologies were just made up....

Think it is all the same really, some better than others... Which is maybe the main point; Star Wars is so much better written than a lot of the other religions, they don't want it beating the rest....

Plus Atheists/Anti-Theists have nothing to fight against. ;)
 

Theweirdtophat

Well-Known Member
In a sense they are all "made up" as in someone had an idea, saw fantastic events some of which are true and actually happened, adopted a philosophy and a made a religion out of it. And really I would think it'd be pretty hypocritical to not include Jediism since this forum is about tolerating others beliefs. Most people that bad mouth it because it's from fiction, and that it's a parody religion which doesn't make sense to call it that, because it's not a parody of anything. It just takes the Jedi creed which was inspired by religions like Taoism and Buddhism. This isn't Pastafarianism we're talking about here, especially since some Jedi do take it seriously with their beliefs, meditation ect. and I feel members are making up excuses to not include it and say there aren't any members of it, even though there are some and DIRs like Jainism and Rastafari aren't exactly populated with too many Rastafari or Jains.

I haven't heard anyone give one reason as to why it'd be bad to include it. Is it really going to take up that much space? And you'll attract members both in and outside this forum by adding it.
 

Twilight Hue

Twilight, not bright nor dark, good nor bad.
I suppose. If a guy can make a recognised religion based on copy machines, why not a movie?
 

YmirGF

Bodhisattva in Recovery
The religious tenets and beliefs are crazy, but do not advocate for things I would consider "corrupt".

The church of Scientology is fuelled with censorship, legal bullying and abuse and harassment of current members and ex-members.

Clear distinction of the two
Hubbard was smart enough to leave some things out of his public writings. :)
The corruption did not begin after his death however and was a legacy he left his followers that they embellished with gusto.
 

Theweirdtophat

Well-Known Member
I still can't find any reason as to why it'd be bad to add a new section. There really is no reason not too. It won't take up that much space, and the only thing it will do is attract new members and create new discussions. Nothing illogical about that.
 

Zeref

New Member
Hello,

I saw a message related to this thread on my home site of templeofthejediorder.org, which has led me over here. I would like to briefly explain a little bit more about what Jediism actually is and how it could be helpful to have a section dedicated to it on your site.

There are some things that you may not be aware of regarding Jediism as I see there is much mis-information around the couple of threads dedicated to the subject. First, Jediism is only loosely based on Star Wars. The central tenets and teachings are mostly a cross between Humanistic values, Taoism, and Joseph Campbell's research (the material that inspired Lucas to create the Star Wars Universe). One of the Community's central philosophers and authors, Opie MacLeod/Kevin Trout, has written something called the Jedi Circle, which will help us to explore the misconceptions people have about the Jedi Community. Let me show you what I mean.

The Jedi Circle is a collection of writings and values compiled by Opie to show a concise view of the Community and what we focus on in our training. In this, there is a section about the misconceptions of the Jedi in non-fiction. I will quote the book now:

"
The Five Practices; Meditation, Physical Fitness, Diplomacy, Awareness, and Self-Discipline.
The Five Tenets; Peace, Knowledge, Serenity, Harmony, the Force.
The Five Traits; Reliability, Objectivity, Humility, Patience, Wisdom.
The Five Truths; Commitment, Self-Honesty, Learning, Sacrifice, and Guidance.
The Five Misconceptions; Segregation, Religion, Compassion, Star Wars, Infallible.

The Five Practices
Meditation: Through the practice of meditation a Jedi cultivates many aspects, patience, objectivity, and a steady connection to the Force.

Physical Fitness: Through physical wellness a Jedi is more capable of helping in a variety of ways. Whether this requires self-defense or simply a healthy immune system, the Jedi seeks to maintain good physical fitness.

Diplomacy: Diplomacy is the first venue of the Jedi. From Conflict Resolution to basic respect requests, a Jedi uses communication and the mind as the first "weapon."

Awareness: Self-awareness is one of the first steps in personal progress. A Jedi must also extend that awareness to the world around them, so they be ready to help when called.

Self-Discipline: Whether one trains in-person or online, no one can make you do anything, except yourself. If you wish to be a Jedi, than it rests on your shoulders to make sure you become one.

The Five Tenets
Peace: Peace is Acceptance. A Jedi must accept that there are things they have control over and things they do not. Peace comes from accepting our limitations, the limitations of others, and accepting to grow beyond them. Peace comes from accepting our emotions and not allowing them to rule our lives or decisions. Peace is Acceptance.

Knowledge: For a Jedi knowledge begins with the self, and works outward. We seek knowledge that we may better serve others. Though it may not relate to our Path, all knowledge is worth having.

Serenity: More than just remaining level-headed even in a crisis. While a Jedi acts for and from peace, serenity is a state of being. A serene mind is an objective mind.

Harmony: Moderation in all things. Excessive emotions, whether "positive" or "negative," create an imbalance within the self. We as Jedi seek Harmony in all things. Balance is key to a Jedi's life, balance between mind, body, and spirit. Balance between technology and nature. Harmony between ourselves, the Force, and the World we live in.

The Force: The Jedi dedicate themselves to the Force, seeking to explore, experience and understand it. Through the Force we connect to the rest of the world and act accordingly.

The Five Traits
Reliability: A Jedi is one others may turn to in a time of need. They are there for others, whether emotionally, physically, or spiritually. They offer their guidence as best they can

Objectivity: A Jedi is a neutral party, looking at a situation from all sides. Regardless of one's position, a Jedi is unbiased.

Patience: A Jedi must have patience. Not only in their training, but also in the world around them. With a little patience, many solutions will present themselves.

Wisdom: While Jedi take care of knowledge, they understand that it takes wisdom to use knowledge properly. While Jedi are seen as wise, they merely work from knowledge, experience, and the Force.

Humility: A Jedi is not above anyone else. A Jedi must remember that they are no better than the people they serve. We may train to be of help, but that makes us different, not better.

The Five Truths
Commitment: One can have self-discipline, but if they are not committed to the path they walk, than they will wander off it. A Jedi stays the course, by remaining dedicated to the Path.

Self-Honesty: Jedi know that control begins with the self. Through self-honesty they gain self-knowledge, which helps in self-discipline. One cannot progress if they are not fully honest with themselves first.

Learning: There is always something more to learn. The Jedi understand that they will never be done learning. Whether a Master or an Apprentice, we continue as students.

Sacrifice: As Jedi we often have to make sacrifices at times. Giving of the self to help others. Using our personal time and resources to be there for others and continue our training.

Guidance: A Jedi offers guidance, when requested. Jedi, when ready, pass on their experience and lessons. Acting as a signpost to the Jedi Way.

The Five Misconceptions
Segregation: People seek to create division - While our individuality may distinguish us, it does not change what we are. And if one does not follow the Jedi Way, then they are simply not a Jedi.

Religion: The Jedi Path is not a religion. There is no form of worship, no doctrine or defined scripture for the creation of the world; or for what happens in death. That is for each person to chose and believe for themselves. The Jedi is a Way of Life, an ideology, a lifestyle choice.

Compassion: A Jedi must understand a situation and react properly to it. Adhering to the "There is no emotion; there is peace" ideals presented within the Jedi Code, we must be mindful of compassion. Like all emotions we feel it, but that does not mean it should influence our decisions. We should do the right thing, because it is the right thing, not because we an emotion compels us to.

Star Wars: Though the Jedi are steep in the Star Wars mythos, it is not all they know. And one does not have to be a Star Wars geek or a (fictional) Jedi fanatic to become a Jedi. While Star Wars is our basis, it is not our reality.

Infallible: Jedi, no matter how powerful or clever, or how many years they have been training, are not infallible. There is nothing righteous or special about a Jedi, merely a person following and living their beliefs. And Jedi will fall and fail at times, but it is in picking themselves up and continuing again that matters the most. Jedi understand Failure is not the end
- Written by Opie Macleod ( © 2004-2010 - Last page update: January 13th 2010)
"
 

Zeref

New Member
So, now I hope you see that there is a lot of thought that goes into this, and it is only very loosely concerned with Star Wars. In fact, the reason why the moniker Jedi is used at all is because generally people are inspired to greatness from the Jedi in the Lore (the way I like to call the Fiction). Which leads me to the next point:

Second, Jediism is maybe not a religion in the classic sense. I am not sure how you all define religion, but there ARE people who choose Jediism as a religion in that they believe "worship" is a loose term and "Deity" can be the Force. Meditation on the Force can be considered a form of worship for some, and for that reason Jediism CAN be a religion. I believe this is the major impetus for it being considered a new religious movement. Although, I can also see the argument for a non-religious movement as well. There are both. We do have a trained, ordained (legal) clergy though. I myself am a member of that clergy (not ordained).

Third, Jedi(ism) has academic writings, which is more than can be said for most religions. I would point you to the innumerable blogs/websites being written by active members:
Force Academy- www.forceacademy.co.uk/forum2 (Force Realism, incorporates all three aspects, but has separate councils for each. This is also the oldest order of the community which is still active; Eidolon [Dark], Raven [Shadow], and Vandor and Setanaoko (Alethea) [Light])

Institute for Jedi Realists Studies- www.instituteforjedirealiststudies.org (Jedi Realism, one of the best orders out there, seriously; Jax)

Temple of the Jedi Order- www.templeofthejediorder.org (Second Jedi Church to be established, in December 2005; based out of Texas.)

Temple of the Jedi Force- www.templeofthejediforce.org (Sprang forth from TOTJO; Octagon and Rozen)

Jedi Force Class: http://jediforceclass.webs.com

Jedi Academy Online- http://www.jediacademyonline.com (Pragmatic Jedi; Opie MacLeod)Aurora Borealis Jedi Council www.theaurorainitiative.com(Talon Trevor MacDonald, Christina Ottawa)http://arkinneajeditemple.com/(Alan Wilson)

Jedi School: http://jedischool.org/

Church of Jediism: http://www.churchofjediism.org.uk/ (but they are easiest reach by facebook at http://www.facebook.com/groups/churchofjediism/ ; Patrick Ewan Chi-Pa Amshe Day-Childs)

Christian Order of Jedi Knights:http://z15.invisionfree.com/christianorderof.../index.php... (as the name suggests, Christian Jedi. Recently revived by Silmerion Skywalker)

Gathered Force Community: GatheredForceCommunity.com (the hub for offline Jedi Gatherings/Meetups. It's also has a place for people to explore "the Force" on order-neutral forums and a Community Wide Map to aide members in finding Jedi in your area. Contact Kitsu Tails)

Czech Jedi Order: http://www.cestasily.cz/index.php?page=intro (Tyelpe, Morell and Aar Guntu are typically the people I converse with there)

Russian Jedi Order: It's really hard for me to tell you which one is -definitely- active, but I do know that you should (in theory) be able to reach Algan and Alexus through Jedi Heritage- http://jediheritage.0pk.ru/

Offline groups also exist:
http://californiajedi.org/
http://agogewarrior.com/Colorado_Jedi_Order_Lightsaber...
http://www.meetup.com/ChicagoJedi/
https://www.facebook.com/capcityjedi
https://www.facebook.com/groups/374620772567582/ - Heartland Jedi
http://arkinneajeditemple.com/

A FULL archive of many of the older, not in use sites:
http://jediliving.com/jediarchive/

And printed BOOKS on the Jedi Path (more than you can say for some NRMs):
http://www.amazon.com/The-Jedi-Circle-Philosophy-Everyday/dp/1482637421
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/193578627X
http://www.amazon.com/Jedi-Compass-..._UL160_SR124,160_&refRID=0GRZ8N063SXAH4X48Q64
http://www.amazon.com/The-Jedi-Reli..._UL160_SR107,160_&refRID=0D6HS61TKRBKYFRK9Z2R
http://www.amazon.com/The-Jedi-Hand..._UL160_SR107,160_&refRID=064QQ2PKD92HDR691D6X
http://www.amazon.com/The-Jedi-Foun...bxgy_14_2?ie=UTF8&refRID=0GRZ8N063SXAH4X48Q64
http://www.amazon.com/dp/0615275222/
http://www.amazon.com/Jedi-Religion...?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1407185212&sr=1-1
http://www.amazon.com/Exploring-Lif...?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1407185212&sr=1-3
http://www.amazon.com/Nerd-Knight-J...448299504&sr=1-1&keywords=from+nerd+to+knight
http://www.amazon.com/Jedi-Prep-Sch..._UL160_SR116,160_&refRID=1EZXDWBC5SH1A3858RY1
 

Zeref

New Member
Fourth, the Temple of the Jedi Order (the main Jedi religious site of our decade), is a non profit, has a fully functioning clergy and church, holds services, has clerical consultations, has a full training program, has a few hundred ACTIVE members, and has a full doctrine of teachings. I will provide those to you now:

"
Jediism is a religion based on the observance of the Force, a ubiquitous and metaphysical power that a Jedi (a follower of Jediism) believes to be the underlying, fundamental nature of the universe. Jediism finds its roots in philosophies similar to those presented in an epic space opera called “Star Wars”. It is a religion in and of itself.

The Jedi religion is an inspiration and a way of life for many people throughout the world who take on the mantle of Jedi. Jedi apply the principles, ideals, philosophies and teachings of Jediism in a practical manner within their lives. Real Jedi do not worship George Lucas or Star Wars or anything of the sort. Jediism is not based in fiction, but we accept myth as a sometimes more practical mean of conveying philosophies applicable to real life."

Jedi Believe:
In the Force, and in the inherent worth of all life within it.
In the sanctity of the human person. We oppose the use of torture and cruel or unusual punishment, including the death penalty.
In a society governed by laws grounded in reason and compassion, not in fear or prejudice.
In a society that does not discriminate on the basis of sexual orientation or circumstances of birth such as gender, ethnicity and national origin.
In the ethic of reciprocity, and how moral concepts are not absolute but vary by culture, religion and over time.
In the positive influence of spiritual growth and awareness on society.
In the importance of freedom of conscience and self-determination within religious, political and other structures.
In the separation of religion and government and the freedoms of speech, association and expression.

Our three tenets: Focus, Knowledge, Wisdom.

The Code: Emotion yet Peace, Ignorance yet Knowledge, Passion yet Serenity, Chaos yet Harmony, Death yet the Force.

Our Creed (from Francis' Prayer):
I am a Jedi, an instrument of peace;

Where there is hatred I shall bring love;
Where there is injury, pardon;
Where there is doubt, faith;
Where there is despair, hope;
Where there is darkness, light;
And where there is sadness, joy.

I am a Jedi.

I shall never seek so much to be consoled as to console;
To be understood as to understand;
To be loved as to love;
For it is in giving that we receive;
It is in pardoning that we are pardoned;
And it is in dying that we are born to eternal life.

The Force is with me always, for I am a Jedi.

Our 16 teachings:
1. Jedi are in touch with the Force. We are open to spiritual awareness and keep our minds in tune with the beauty of the world. We are forever learning and open our minds to experiences and knowledge of ourselves and others.

2. Jedi maintain a clear mind; which can be achieved through meditation and contemplation. Our minds can become unduly troubled and concerned with the happenings of the world. We must work on overcoming our individual issues through training and diligence.

3. Jedi are aware of the future impacts of action and inaction and of the influence of the past, but live in and focus on the Now. We let ourselves flow like water through the events around us. We embrace the ever changing and fluid world, adapting and changing as it does.

4. Jedi are wary of attachments, both material and personal. The obsession over possessions and people creates the fear of losing those possessions and relationships which can cause ourselves to be trapped in a state of depression and loss.

5. Jedi understand that well-being consists in the physical, the mental and the spiritual. A Jedi trains each to ensure they remain capable of performing their duties to the best of their ability. All of these are interconnected and essential parts of our training in becoming more harmonious with the Force.

6. Jedi use their skills to the best of their ability. We do not use our knowledge and skill to boast or be prideful. We are mindful of the ego and mindful of our actions, exercising wisdom and humility.

7. Jedi understand their limitations. We recognise, and take responsibility, for our failures and develop a level of modesty about them. We respect the right for others to disagree and understand that they themselves are not perfect.

8. Jedi are patient. We work on training ourselves not to precipitate events around us. We know that becoming a Jedi is long and hard and requires rigorous dedication and commitment. Jedi train to act with a conscientious state of calmness.

9. Jedi have integrity. We are authentic to what we believe and are open, honest and true to our purpose and our minds. We remove all masks to reveal ourselves as courageous and noble of heart. We do not hide from fear of damage to our image because we know that our image cannot be blemished from the words and actions of others.

10. Jedi serve in many ways. Each action performed, no matter the scale, influences the world. With this in mind Jedi perform each action with peace, caring, love, compassion and humility. So it is that each Jedi improves the world with each deed they perform.

11. Jedi are mindful of their thoughts. We recognise the beauty in others and we provide help to those who come seeking it. Through our benevolent actions we strengthen not only ourselves but also our communities. Jedi act without prejudice.

12. Jedi believe that love and compassion are central to their lives. We must love and care for each other as we must love and care for ourselves; by doing this we envelop all life in the positivity of our actions and thoughts. We are providers and beacons of hope.

13. Jedi cultivate empathy. We try to view things from another’s perspective making us sensitive listeners. We provide the confidence people need when talking through their difficulties and we share our learning with those who would benefit. We do this to help create a more harmonious society.

14. Jedi are guardians of peace. We believe in helping all those that are in need, in whatever form, to the best of our ability. We recognise that sometimes providing help requires courage in the face of adversity but understand that conflict is resolved through peace, understanding and harmony.

15. Jedi believe in eternal life through the Force. We do not become obsessed in mourning those who pass. We may grieve at their passing but we are content, knowing that they will forever be a part of the Force and so always a part of us.

16. Jedi make a commitment to their cause and to humanity. Our ideals, philosophies, and practices 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 convictions.
 

Zeref

New Member
Our 21 Maxims:
Prowess: To seek excellence in all endeavors expected of a Jedi.

A Jedi strives to acquire greater skill and expertise in what they do at all times so that it may be used in the service of the greater good, and not for personal profit. This requires discipline, patience and perfect practice.

Justice: To always seek the path of ‘right’.

A Jedi is unencumbered by bias or personal interest. Justice is a double-edged sword, one that protects the weak, yet also passes judgements according to a set of values. A Jedi tolerates that which is not Jedi and does not pass judgement on that which causes no harm for it is just.

Loyalty: To have faith in your Jedi brothers and sisters.

A Jedi remains true to what they have learned and to their own teachings. A Jedi always serves those who wish to learn more of the ways of the Force and in doing so, remain loyal to the way of Jediism and their Order.

Defense: To defend the way of Jediism.

A Jedi is sworn by oath to defend their faith and all it encompasses.

Courage: To have the will.

To be a Jedi sometimes means choosing the more difficult path, the personally expensive one. A Jedi knows they must make the right choice, take the right side and that the weak they have sworn to defend often stand alone. A Jedi puts aside fear, regret, and uncertainty yet know the difference between courage and sheer stupidity.

Faith: To trust in the ways of the Force.

Although the ways of the Force may seem strange at times, a Jedi always knows their place and their role within it.

Humility: To accept the ego for what it is.

A Jedi does not boast of their accomplishments and knows that their accomplishment is its own reward.

Fearlessness: To have no self-imposed limits.

Fear is that which prevents a Jedi from accomplishing their duty. A Jedi learns to let go of their fears through their faith in the Force and has no shame in admitting their shortfalls when they occur.

Nobility: To act with honour.

A Jedi does not engage in petty, mean or otherwise dubious activities. Acting with stature and distinction influences others, offering a compelling example of what can be achieved by those who follow Jediism.

Honesty: To avoid lies.

A Jedi is honest with themselves and seeks to always go beyond appearances. There can be no honest self without the knowledge and wisdom to see truth.

Pure Motive: To act with motive and purpose.

Without a sound motive and purpose, action has no meaning, no destination and lacks a foundation. A Jedi moves with the Force, trusts in its ways. A Jedi’s actions are firmly based upon a deep motivation to be as their path dictates.

Discipline: To let the self be sole master of the self.

A Jedi’s mind is structured, peaceful, unencumbered by emotions, physical state or external stimuli.

Focus: To select what matters most.

A Jedi focuses in the task at hand. Although a Jedi is aware of the past, and wary of the present's impact on the future, through discipline they know how to select and concentrate on priorities.

Discretion: To become invisible.

A Jedi knows there is a time and place for all things. They do not actively interfere in worldly affairs and refrain from overtly supporting or opposing other individuals or organizations.

Meditation: To exercise the mind.

Through regular meditation a Jedi examines their motivations, and are certain that they are not allowing emotion, ignorance, or passion to intrude upon them. Meditation can be used by a Jedi to improve their mindfulness, focus, or patience.

Training: To know one's ignorance.

A Jedi knows there is always something more to learn and seeks new lessons every day.

Integrity: To be consistent.

A Jedi lives as a Jedi at all times. Hypocrisy is their worst enemy.

Morality: To know the danger of belief.

A Jedi knows how contradicting beliefs of what is right and wrong can lead to devastating crimes and conflicts. A Jedi takes a step away from the subjectivity of opinion in favour of the peace of objectivity. A Jedi does not force their values upon others.

Conflict: To know when to fight.

A Jedi knows the conflicting nature of the Force but they also know its peace and serenity. A Jedi never blindly enters conflict and always does so for the greater good.

Intervention: To know when not to act.

A Jedi knows how inaction can have as great an impact as action and how some of the greatest lessons are self-taught. To be a victor is also taking that victory from those you protect. A Jedi intervenes only when a Jedi's intervention is required.

Harmony: To be connected to the Force.

A Jedi seeks to live in harmony with the Force, for that is the reason to be a Jedi. To better understand its ways, to better know one's place within it.



I would ask that anybody who has questions about Jediism either ask me here, ask any of the Jedi here, or go to TOTJO to ask. I hope that I have shed some light on the misconceptions often surrounding the Jedi Path.

-Zeref (Connor)
 

YmirGF

Bodhisattva in Recovery
I would ask that anybody who has questions about Jediism either ask me here, ask any of the Jedi here, or go to TOTJO to ask. I hope that I have shed some light on the misconceptions often surrounding the Jedi Path.

-Zeref (Connor)
That's actually pretty good for something that began as pure fiction. Imagination is a powerful thing.
 

Theweirdtophat

Well-Known Member
That's actually pretty good for something that began as pure fiction. Imagination is a powerful thing.


Dude, do you want to know the irony here. There is some truth to Jediism despite starting as fiction, which was based on other religions like Buddhism and Taoism. For example there is a "light" side as well as a dark side of energy, as in the Light energy can help someone while dark energy corrupts them and messes up with their mind. There are sprits and souls that mingle and even interact with humans, sometimes subtle sometimes not. And if you want to be technical, every religion is "made up" I am not here to say that people like Jesus didn't exist, because he did and lots of deities existed at on point in time, but when I say "made up" I mean someone was inspired by looking at the world around them and made philosophical guidelines to help enlighten others. Like with The Buddha or Lao Tzu. But to dismiss Jediism solely because it' was from Star Wars I think is rather unfair.
 

Theweirdtophat

Well-Known Member
Our 21 Maxims:
Prowess: To seek excellence in all endeavors expected of a Jedi.

A Jedi strives to acquire greater skill and expertise in what they do at all times so that it may be used in the service of the greater good, and not for personal profit. This requires discipline, patience and perfect practice.

Justice: To always seek the path of ‘right’.

A Jedi is unencumbered by bias or personal interest. Justice is a double-edged sword, one that protects the weak, yet also passes judgements according to a set of values. A Jedi tolerates that which is not Jedi and does not pass judgement on that which causes no harm for it is just.

Loyalty: To have faith in your Jedi brothers and sisters.

A Jedi remains true to what they have learned and to their own teachings. A Jedi always serves those who wish to learn more of the ways of the Force and in doing so, remain loyal to the way of Jediism and their Order.

Defense: To defend the way of Jediism.

A Jedi is sworn by oath to defend their faith and all it encompasses.

Courage: To have the will.

To be a Jedi sometimes means choosing the more difficult path, the personally expensive one. A Jedi knows they must make the right choice, take the right side and that the weak they have sworn to defend often stand alone. A Jedi puts aside fear, regret, and uncertainty yet know the difference between courage and sheer stupidity.

Faith: To trust in the ways of the Force.

Although the ways of the Force may seem strange at times, a Jedi always knows their place and their role within it.

Humility: To accept the ego for what it is.

A Jedi does not boast of their accomplishments and knows that their accomplishment is its own reward.

Fearlessness: To have no self-imposed limits.

Fear is that which prevents a Jedi from accomplishing their duty. A Jedi learns to let go of their fears through their faith in the Force and has no shame in admitting their shortfalls when they occur.

Nobility: To act with honour.

A Jedi does not engage in petty, mean or otherwise dubious activities. Acting with stature and distinction influences others, offering a compelling example of what can be achieved by those who follow Jediism.

Honesty: To avoid lies.

A Jedi is honest with themselves and seeks to always go beyond appearances. There can be no honest self without the knowledge and wisdom to see truth.

Pure Motive: To act with motive and purpose.

Without a sound motive and purpose, action has no meaning, no destination and lacks a foundation. A Jedi moves with the Force, trusts in its ways. A Jedi’s actions are firmly based upon a deep motivation to be as their path dictates.

Discipline: To let the self be sole master of the self.

A Jedi’s mind is structured, peaceful, unencumbered by emotions, physical state or external stimuli.

Focus: To select what matters most.

A Jedi focuses in the task at hand. Although a Jedi is aware of the past, and wary of the present's impact on the future, through discipline they know how to select and concentrate on priorities.

Discretion: To become invisible.

A Jedi knows there is a time and place for all things. They do not actively interfere in worldly affairs and refrain from overtly supporting or opposing other individuals or organizations.

Meditation: To exercise the mind.

Through regular meditation a Jedi examines their motivations, and are certain that they are not allowing emotion, ignorance, or passion to intrude upon them. Meditation can be used by a Jedi to improve their mindfulness, focus, or patience.

Training: To know one's ignorance.

A Jedi knows there is always something more to learn and seeks new lessons every day.

Integrity: To be consistent.

A Jedi lives as a Jedi at all times. Hypocrisy is their worst enemy.

Morality: To know the danger of belief.

A Jedi knows how contradicting beliefs of what is right and wrong can lead to devastating crimes and conflicts. A Jedi takes a step away from the subjectivity of opinion in favour of the peace of objectivity. A Jedi does not force their values upon others.

Conflict: To know when to fight.

A Jedi knows the conflicting nature of the Force but they also know its peace and serenity. A Jedi never blindly enters conflict and always does so for the greater good.

Intervention: To know when not to act.

A Jedi knows how inaction can have as great an impact as action and how some of the greatest lessons are self-taught. To be a victor is also taking that victory from those you protect. A Jedi intervenes only when a Jedi's intervention is required.

Harmony: To be connected to the Force.

A Jedi seeks to live in harmony with the Force, for that is the reason to be a Jedi. To better understand its ways, to better know one's place within it.



I would ask that anybody who has questions about Jediism either ask me here, ask any of the Jedi here, or go to TOTJO to ask. I hope that I have shed some light on the misconceptions often surrounding the Jedi Path.

-Zeref (Connor)


Thank you for taking the time to share this with us and it's great to see other Jedi, too. I am hoping there can be a section dedicated to it on here and hopefully more people can talk about it. I think some dismissed it because they don't really know about it or the people that practice it. Same thing with other religious groups where a person will dismiss it or dislike it, but a lot of the time it's because they are ignorant of the subject and only hear certain things about it from other people, but don't actually research it. Once they do, they start respecting it more.
 

YmirGF

Bodhisattva in Recovery
Dude, do you want to know the irony here. There is some truth to Jediism despite starting as fiction, which was based on other religions like Buddhism and Taoism. For example there is a "light" side as well as a dark side of energy, as in the Light energy can help someone while dark energy corrupts them and messes up with their mind. There are sprits and souls that mingle and even interact with humans, sometimes subtle sometimes not. And if you want to be technical, every religion is "made up" I am not here to say that people like Jesus didn't exist, because he did and lots of deities existed at on point in time, but when I say "made up" I mean someone was inspired by looking at the world around them and made philosophical guidelines to help enlighten others. Like with The Buddha or Lao Tzu. But to dismiss Jediism solely because it' was from Star Wars I think is rather unfair.
You will have to forgive me if I am deeply unimpressed with such thinking. Given that I am a "spiritual anarchist", a self-described "unrepentant infidel dog", I'm not big on group-think to begin with. That some special snowflakes find solace in this "Jedi" nonsense is not very surprising.
 
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