At its most basic level, the Jedi Code is a set of guidelines explaining for a Padawan what virtues to prize, and what flaws to avoid. Instructors ask their students that if they remember nothing else, to always keep these words in mind. The reason is simple: in these four lines lie the instructions for how to become a Jedi Master.

Consider the first rule: "There is no emotion; there is peace."

It is plainly a contrast, distinguishing the confusion of emotional considerations from the clear thinking of peaceful meditation--- Obviously, a valuable quality.

But if that peace is rooted in simply being unaware of some factor that would otherwise cause a Jedi to feel an emotional reaction, then it is not so much peace as ignorance.

This is why the code contains

...the second rule: "There is no ignorance; there is knowledge."

This teaches Jedi to strive for understanding of all situations--- particularly before acting --- to better avoid errors in judgment. But, again, knowing a thing well can lead one to become engrossed in it. Engrossment leads to clouding of the mind.

Thus, the third rule: "There is no passion; there is serenity."

Knowing a thing objectively is knowing it as the Force knows it. Still, students commonly argue that the only true objectivity is nonexistence --- Death. For does one not affect a thing even by merely observing it?

This is why there is the fourth rule: "There is no death: There is the Force."

The Force knows all things objectively, it is serene and it is not swayed by emotion.

Thus the Jedi Code teaches that before undertaking any action, The Jedi should consider the will of the Force. "With these other considerations aside, all that remains is the Force" What is meant by this is that if a Jedi can act emotionlessly, knowledgeably, and serenely, then he is acting in accordance with the will of the Force.

Therefore, if a Jedi acts in all things without emotion, ignorance, or passion, then that Jedi is truly a Master of the Force.

At its heart, the Jedi Code provides simple instructions for living in touch with the Force. A Jedi never uses the Force to gain wealth or personal power. Instead, the Jedi uses the Force to find knowledge and enlightenment. Anger, fear, aggression, and other negative emotions lead to the dark side, so Jedi are taught to act only when they are at peace with the Force.

Steffan Karrde, Temple Councilor