Obi-Wan's Dilemma: Why Didn’t He Kill Anakin in Revenge of the Sith?

Depictions in the Star Wars saga often spark intense debates among fans. One such controversial subject is why, in Revenge of the Sith, Obi-Wan Kenobi did not simply kill Anakin Skywalker, his closest friend and former apprentice. Is it that he was stupid, as some might argue? Or was it a more complex decision driven by deep emotion and moral obligation?

Obi-Wan's Actions and Emotions

Without a doubt, Obi-Wan Kenobi performed a harrowing and physically demanding task—removing every natural limb that Anakin Skywalker still possessed. He left his friend to face his excruciating agony and a certain painful death, seemingly turning his back on their deep bond. Many see this as a decision to indirectly kill his best friend, even if he wasn’t present to witness it.

Obi-Wan’s actions can be understood as a solemn defiance against Anakin’s betrayal. By removing his limbs, he left a powerful reminder of their shared past and the pain Anakin had inflicted upon those who loved him, including Padmé Amidala, his wife. Obi-Wan’s swift and decisive action with his lightsaber signalled the end of Anakin’s connection to the Jedi Order and his progression into the dark side, turning the Jedi into a Sith.

It is important to emphasize that Obi-Wan’s motives were not malicious. He was deeply conflicted. Anakin was not just his best friend; he was almost a son to Obi-Wan. The two had spent years together, forming a deep and unbreakable bond. However, Anakin betrayed everyone who cared about him, including the entire galaxy.

Hindsight Is 20/20

Only in the light of hindsight can Obi-Wan's actions be judged as a mistake. Given Anakin's severe injuries and state, Obi-Wan knew that he would likely die without immediate medical intervention. Nevertheless, Anakin’s injuries and burns were fatal to anyone else, leading to his eventual rescue.

After the injuries left him with just the flickers of his former self, Anakin embraced the dark side completely, becoming Darth Vader. Only through the insights of his son, Luke, did Anakin truly recognize his mistakes and become willing to forgive and find a path to love once more.

Obi-Wan's Emotional and Moral Calls

While Obi-Wan did not want to kill his best friend, it is clear that he struggled with a profound sense of duty and the full weight of his emotions. The Jedi Order is not pacifist; they are knights sworn to confront evil when necessary. Obi-Wan did confront the evil in a powerful and decisive manner with his lightsaber, yet his true mastery of the Light Side of the Force was demonstrated in his ability to maintain control over his emotions despite the pain of his most beloved friend's betrayal.

Emotional control is key for a Jedi. The connection to the Force relies significantly on the emotional state of the Jedi. Obi-Wan’s face often betrayed his inner turmoil when he began to feel conflicted, a moment at which he would be vulnerable to attacks from Darth Maul and Darth Tyranus—both instances where he faltered due to his emotional states.

Obi-Wan did not break down in tears, rage, or become catatonic when he discovered Anakin’s betrayal. He instead demonstrated the highest level of Jedi mastery by confronting the darkness that needed to be confronted, even when it was his friend. Obi-Wan’s actions are a testament to his deep love and commitment to the Jedi Order, the Republic, and his friends, including Padmé and his children.

In conclusion, Obi-Wan Kenobi may not have simply killed Anakin, but his actions were a reflection of a profound and conflicted love, an unwavering duty to justice, and a deep sense of responsibility to his friends and fellow Jedi. The path of the Jedi is not always easy, but their commitment to the light—no matter the cost—defines their legendary status.