Jediism

The Jedi Religion or Jediism is a religion based upon the teachings found in the Star Wars films and books written (and directed) by George Lucas.

There are over 523,127 Jedi in the world. At least two Jedi churches exist, one in Texas, America and one in Holyhead, Wales. Ministers of the Jedi Temple in Texas are allowed to legally conduct weddings.

According to New Zealand's 2001 census, 1.5% of the population claimed to be Jedi. This makes it a 'larger' religion than both Buddhism and Hinduism in that country.

Negativity in the Press
Although many Jedi believe their religion to be not recognised by many people, the Jedi Way is often reported on the internet and in news articles. Most of this exposure is often negative. It usually reports the religion as made-up and un-important. This is not true. As mentioned above, over half a million people follow the religion and believe in the ways of the Force.

Beliefs
Jedi believe in the ways of 'The Force'. They listen to the Philosophic teachings of Master Yoda, and interpret them to every day life. They do not believe they can control their own 'Jedi Path', and also live by the 'Jedi Creed' and the 'Jedi Vow'.

The Jedi Vow: "I am a Jedi in my heart,

a Jedi in my mind,

a Jedi in my soul,

a Jedi in my spirit,

and a Jedi in all that I do and say.

I choose the path of the Jedi as a way and means to do that which is right, to illumination, to inner peace, and to calmness of mind.

I choose the path of the Jedi to express my profound allegiance and devotion to the Living Force.

I vow to uphold the Jedi teachings, and hereby devote my life to the cause of the Jedi, that I in turn may earn the right to be called a true Jedi.

I vow to honor the five parts of the Jedi Creed."

The Jedi Creed:
 * 1) Jedi are the guardians of peace in the Galaxy.
 * 2) Jedi use their powers to defend and protect, neverto attack others.
 * 3) Jedi respect all life, in any form.
 * 4) Jedi serve others rather than rule over them, for the good of the Galaxy.
 * 5) Jedi seek to improve themselves through knowledge and training.

The Light & Dark Sides
Jediism has two types of 'followers' - Jedi and Sith. Which one you are matters - a lot. Deciding which side you are allows you to "break the galaxy into light and dark... catagorize it." - (Quote from Jedi Sanctuary) Many Jedi believe the part of life is discovering your 'origin' - following the Light Side or the Dark side.

Those who choose to 'follow' the Light side are Jedi - Selfless, caring people who think of others before themselves. Those who choose to 'follow' the Dark side are Sith - More selfish people who would accept oppurtunities which benefit him/herself more than others.

More information on the Force and the Light and Dark sides can be found here.

References/Sources

 * Jedi Sanctuary
 * The Jedi Way
 * BBC News Article
 * BBC News Article