The Truth Behind Sith Red Lightsabers: Legends vs. Disney Canon

Do the Sith use lightsabers that are red, just like the Jedi? The simple answer is no, but it's not that straightforward. In the Star Wars universe, both the classic prequel trilogy and the new Disney canon offer different explanations for why Sith lightsabers are predominantly red. Let’s dive into the details to unravel this mystery.

Legends Perspective: Availability and Tradition

In the Legends lore, the reason for Sith lightsabers being predominantly red is rooted in availability and tradition.

Initially, the crystals used to construct lightsabers could resonate with Force-sensitives. However, these crystals had an aversion to individuals steeped in the dark side of the Force. As a result, most Sith relied on synthetic crystals, which typically resulted in a red blade. While extremely rare, some Jedi managed to wield red or orange lightsabers, often using unique crystals both organic and synthetic. These cases were seen as particularly frowned upon due to the association between red lightsabers and Sith fallen Jedi and dark side users in general.

Historically, Sith lightsabers were primarily red on the planet Korriban, where they were easily obtained. Over time, this coloration and synthetic crystal tradition became a symbol of Sith identity and a way to distinguish themselves from the Jedi.

Disney Canon: Emotional Resonance and Wounding

Jumping to the Disney canon, the story takes a different turn. Kyber crystals, which are still used in lightsaber construction, continue to resonate with Force-sensitives. However, these crystals also have a strong aversion to those steeped in the dark side of the Force. Unlike in the Legends canon, synthetic crystals are a thing of the past.

Instead, Sith have a unique method of obtaining red lightsabers. They must ‘bleed’ a regular kyber crystal by infusing it with their negative emotions. This emotional ‘wounding’ of the crystal transforms it into a synthetic-like state, allowing Sith to wield a red lightsaber. Interestingly, Ahsoka Tano’s unique silver/white saber was the result of reclaiming and healing bled crystals from Inquisitors.

In this context, the color of the lightsaber blade is a reflection of the user's emotional state rather than the crystal’s innate properties.

Canon vs Legends: Comparison

While both canons provide compelling explanations for the predominance of red lightsabers among Sith, they differ substantially. The Legends perspective emphasizes the practicality of using synthetic crystals for easy availability, whereas the Disney canon focuses on the emotional aspect of wielding a Sith lightsaber.

Personally, I lean towards the Legends explanation. It offers a more straightforward and believable reason for the Sith's predilection for red lightsabers, rooted in availability and tradition.

Conclusion

The choice of red for Sith lightsabers is rooted in both practical and symbolic reasons within the Star Wars universe. Whether it's due to the availability of synthetic crystals as in the Legends or the emotional 'wounding' of kyber crystals as in the Disney canon, each explanation adds depth to the iconic duels and battles that define the Skywalker saga.