We actually get this question a lot. From new members to the community as well as from interviewers such as but not limited to: Student projects, news reporters and documentary directors....
What exactly is the difference?
This question is often asked because (While not a requirement) it is not unheard of for Jediists to wear Jedi robes, train with toy lightsabers, and adopt fictional references such as “May The Force Be With You” by way of a farewell. Even the name itself is so rich in fiction due to its foundation in Star Wars that it is not uncommon for any of us to question. Why that name in particular? If we are going to be marked with the stigma of "Star Wars" then....why?
Heck. You will even find these practices at Jedi Gatherings for Knighting Ceremonies or Weddings and in cases like the Chicago Jedi who attend Con’s, flash mobs, workshop’s and charitable events in full jedi like attire in order to participate in their local communities and also to get the word out that they are there...It is really no wonder that people are curious.
The thing is. Why wouldn't one emulate something they admire and respect so much. I mean sure. Jedi of Star Wars is just a series of Movies, TV shows, Books and Sci Fi Drama/Fiction....And yet. For some of us, the philosophy cleverly interwoven into it by the director George Lucas is really quite admirable. Enough to move the hearts of many into applying it into their own everyday doctrine. Especially for those who had once lost their way.
While it is commonly debated among the members whether or not we should wear Jedi Robes in order to avoid misrepresentation and misunderstanding...Some have found their own personal meaning behind the flowing, muted attire. Not only are they comfortable, but they put the practitioner into a meditative mindset. Much like an officer donning his uniform, a Jedi in robes is just the natural expectation during ceremonies and studies.
Although I can assure you....a larger number of us find our own modern attire to be perfectly good enough.
However. It is important to point out that it is not, in our opinion, about what we wear or the phrases we say, or even the tools used in practice....But instead about the manner in which it is being used.
Your average cosplayer are the kinds of people who enjoy perfecting there craft and displaying it at con's or in front of cameras. And don't get me wrong! You can find some really cool cosplayers out there who have gone above and beyond with there artistic talents. Seriously! Props to them!
Jediist and/or Jedi realists however have a completely different mindset. Instead of lights, cameras and Con's... We are delving into the philosophy of life and how we should be apart of it. How we can improve our health. Improve our minds. Improve our spirits and use our self improvements to help others. We set down key stones and/or doctrines in which to follow. We challenge ourselves to open our minds and discover new perspectives and we do it with a belief that there really is some kind of "Energy" empowering us to question and seek out a greater way to live our lives.
To put it simply. There is no real difference. Behind every mask, robe, lightsaber and cool effect is an individual human being who has a personal Spiritual and or religious belief that goes beyond the momentary entertainment they choose to enjoy.
Our’s just happen to be labeled as “Jedi.”
Journal Entry: What is your fictional Hero? How does he or she inspire you? Have you ever dressed up like them? How did it feel to (for just a moment) ‘take up the mantle/appearance’ of said hero.
Last edit's:
Sept 26 2020
April 20 2019