Anakin Skywalker’s Potential: Light or Dark Side?

Often, discussions about Anakin Skywalker's potential in the Force tend to lean towards the dark side, with many arguing that he had greater potential in the Dark Side. However, this view is misinformed. Anakin was the Chosen One, fathered by the Force itself, tasked with bringing balance to the Force—a reaction to the Force manipulation and abuse by Dark Lords like Darth Plagueis and Darth Sidious. His mission was to end such manipulation, not embrace it. Therefore, Anakin's true potential lies in the Light Side, not the Dark Side. Let's dive into the evidence to support this argument.

Philosophical Considerations

When comparing the highest potential of a Dark Side user versus a Light Side user, let us consider our best examples.

The Dark Side: Darth Sidious

Darth Sidious reached the zenith of the Dark Side by ruling the galaxy and destroying the Jedi Order. He employed such overwhelming Force power that even Yoda, the mightiest Jedi, could not stop him. This makes Sidious the greatest Sith ever, as he gained more power than anyone else and defeated even the greatest Jedi, whether through cunning or dueling.

The Light Side: Yoda

Many might suggest that Yoda was the peak of the Light Side, being the strongest Jedi to ever live. He possessed unparalleled wisdom and centuries of training, putting him above any other Jedi in the Order. Despite this, his alignment with the Force never fully reached the potential of a Jedi. Unity with the Force, a concept the Sith refused to accept, was his ultimate goal. This is what the peak of the Light Side should look like.

Unity with the Force: A Key Concept

Obi-Wan Kenobi’s final words to Anakin Skywalker before his death, “I shall become more powerful than you could possibly imagine,” are a testament to the ultimate potential of a Jedi. This is a bold claim, especially considering Sidious' power. Obi-Wan's words are significant because his unity with the Force allowed him to transcend death itself, reaching the full potential of a Jedi.

The Purpose of the Jedi Path

It is crucial to understand that while the Jedi path is restrictive in nature, its primary purpose is not about strength. The Jedi path is designed for stability, to maintain the balance and integrity of the Force. No one, including Anakin, could have more potential regarding the Jedi path because it is not meant to foster individual strength but to preserve the greater good.

Conclusion

Therefore, Anakin Skywalker's true potential lies in the Light Side, not the Dark Side. His very mission was to counter the manipulation and exploitation of the Force by Dark Side users. The unity with the Force, as demonstrated by Obi-Wan Kenobi, is a clear indicator of the ultimate potential of a Jedi. Thus, Anakin's true purpose and path were aligned with the Light Side, making it his rightful destiny.

Keywords

Anakin Skywalker, Light Side, Dark Side, Jedi, Sith