Is There Any Religion in Star Wars?

The galaxy of Star Wars is replete with diverse and complex characters, many of whom either wield or oppose the Force. Amidst the myriad of beliefs and teachings, one might wonder if there are any religions beyond the Force itself within the Star Wars universe. This exploration will delve into some of the more peculiar and humorous religious formations inspired by characters and events in the Star Wars canon.

Kenobism: The Massive Troll Farm

Kenobism has been established as a satirical hivemind phenomenon, often referred to as a massive troll farm and a collective act of "group wank." This religion glorifies a venerable Jedi, Obi-Wan "Bendu" Kenobi, to the point of deification. Its adherents claim Kenobi to be a god-like figure, despite his being an aged and not particularly powerful Jedi compared to other characters like Yoda or even Anakin Skywalker (Darth Vader).

The sheer absurdity of Kenobi being worshipped as a god is evident from the Kenobism followers' logic that he is equivalent to four of their number, known as Shave Wankatine (a fictional name used here for comedic effect). This level of zombification and fanatical behavior makes it a target for ridicule and derision in the Star Wars fan community.

Ben Choucroun-ism: The Mass Orgy of Wankery

Ben Choucroun-ism is an exaggerated and even more comedic form of Kenobism, often described as being twice as much of a mass orgy. The followers of Ben Choucroun-ism fawn over a different figure, likely a young and overrated kid who is supposedly a prophecy, but in reality, is "giga fodder" (harmless or ineffectual material). This spectrum of admiration extends from an aged and weak Kenobi to a highly questionable and likely fictional character named Ben Choucroun.

It is emphasized that these religions are not only absurd but also aim to deify characters who fell short of the Jedi standard or were merely fanon figures created for ironic or satirical purposes. It is clear that these beliefs require a certain level of fanatical devotion to maintain.

The Church of Bane: Respect Without Deification

The Church of Bane, dedicated to Darth Bane, presents a more nuanced form of reverence. While Bane, a prominent Sith, is not the strongest among the Sith, he is recognized as the second-most powerful, succeeding Darth Revan, and deserving of some level of respect and admiration. However, the notion of being "jerking off to him" rather than to Zannah or any other more formidable Force users is considered insane and misguided.

The leader of The Church of Bane is often portrayed as a troll with anger management issues. Nevertheless, the church itself is seen as more correct than the other "fodder religions." Despite its critical portrayal, the Church of Bane highlights the varied and often humorous ways that religious and spiritual beliefs can manifest amongst fan communities.

The Old Expanded Universe and Local Cults

Amid the old Expanded Universe (EU), there were a number of local cults and religions, though often unrelated to the Force. For instance, in the novel Truce at Bakura, the locals subscribe to an anti-Jedi cult. The story Dengar's Tale in Tales of the Bounty Hunters also features Dengar joining the Rebellion under a fabricated story about murdering children, which was used as a pretext for supporting the anti-Imperial cause.

In the new canon, Darth Sidious (also known as Palpatine) goes to great lengths to appear ordinary and human. Additionally, there appears to have been a purge or elimination of organized religious beliefs and superstitions to avoid any association with the paranormal and Jedi teachings. This suggests that the prevailing ideology in the new canon is one of scientific and objective truth, often conflating it with the Sith and Emperor's tyrannical rule.

Overall, the Star Wars universe, while lacking in formal religions, is rich with fan-created and culturally significant beliefs that reflect the depth and complexity of its fan community. These religions serve not only as a form of fan expression but also as a satirical commentary on the characters and events of the Star Wars saga.