Star Wars Lightsaber Colours: What Do They Mean?
May the 4th be with you! Today we celebrate Star Wars Day: a day set aside especially for fans to applaud the most pioneering sci-fi universe in cinema history.
It is no secret that the force is strong with Uni-versal Extras and, as a bunch, we’re delighted to have been a part of many a Star Wars project in our time – most recently released Solo: A Star Wars Story!
Those that aren’t diehard fans of the Lucas universe, however, may not know that the lightsaber is a little bit more than just a weapon of choice; it tells us all about the intergalactic explorer that wields it.
So, if you’re plotting a celebratory Star Wars marathon this weekend, you’d better do your research.
Do you know the meanings behind every known colour of Star Wars lightsaber?
If not, fear not young Padawan. Uni-versal Extras has the lowdown…
(And if you want to go one step further by binging the whole franchise from start to finish, check out this complete narrative timeline for some further reading!)
GREEN
The Green lightsaber is perhaps the most iconic; you’ll see it wielded by Luke Skywalker, Yoda, and Qui-Gon Jinn.
Green sabers signify wisdom and diplomacy, and are reserved for Jedi Consulars (the Jedis who value negotiation, research, study and healing over combat). Green sabers are held by those with a particularly strong connection to the Force. They are wise and methodical, yet silently strong.
RED
You’ll see the Red lightsaber wielded by The Sith. This weapon signals allegiance to the dark side of the Force – no surprise, you’ll see it carried by characters such as Vader, Sidious, Kylo Ren, Maul and Count Dooku.
Those brandishing red lightsabers are shown to use their powers for evil, fuelled by aggression, anger and revenge.
BLUE
Blue Star Wars lightsabers are held by those fighting for justice and protection – your Obi-Wan Kenobis, your Anakin Skywalkers… those commonly referred to as ‘Jedi Guardians’.
Blue in the Star Wars universe signifies bravery and high skill in physical combat – perfect for preserving order.
PURPLE
The purple lightsaber is exceedingly rare – in fact it can only be attributed to Mace Windu and Mara Jade Skywalker.
Mace Windu actor, Samuel L Jackson, claims that the reason for this distinct saber colour was purely preference and that he specifically requested something that would help him easily spot himself amongst the Jedi fray on screen.
It can also be interpreted as a combination of both light (blue) and dark (red) sides.
YELLOW
Yellow lightsabers are usually indicative of Jedi Sentinels: those who actively seek to bring down the dark side. They are intelligent and known for going undercover and getting their hands dirty.
Those with yellow sabers in hand are relentless and dedicated to bringing down the force. You’ll see them wielded by characters such as Rey Skywalker, Plo Koon and Yarel Poof.
ORANGE
Also used by Jedi Sentinels, Orange sabers are symbolic of stealth, ingenuity and the power of negotiation.
Orange saber-holders are akin to green-saber holders in that they lean more towards peaceful resolution through than through combat. You will see it possessed by Jedi Yaddle and Cal Kestis.
WHITE
Holders of White lightsabers are incredibly loyal and pure.
Quite literally the opposite to the ‘dark’ side, white saber-holders are neutral and haven’t declared allegiance to either the Sith or the Jedi. These sabers are exclusive to those who have not aligned themselves with a particular ideology.
BLACK
Finally, the Black lightsaber. (You’ll likely only know of this one if you’ve watched Star Wars: The Clone Wars!)
Funnily enough, the black lightsaber is more commonly referred to as the ‘darksaber’ because, instead of radiating light, it negates it.
It is typically held by the morally corrupt and is an almighty symbol of absolute leadership. It was created by the first Mandalorian, Tarre Vizsla, and it is said that the only way to obtain the darksaber is to defeat the previous owner in combat.
But that’s enough out of us. How have you have celebrated Star Wars Day this year?