Was Luke Skywalker the Chosen One in Star Wars Rebels?

In the Star Wars Rebels episode Continuation of the Prophecy, Obi-Wan Kenobi refers to Luke Skywalker as the Chosen One. This has sparked debates among fans about whether Obi-Wan meant the same prophesied Chosen One as Anakin or if he saw Luke as a unique, special person who can bring about change and hope in the galaxy.

Continuation of the Prophecy

Obi-Wan's reference to Luke as the Chosen One suggests that he sees Luke as a pivotal figure in the fight against the Sith and a key to restoring balance to the Force. This aligns with the original prophecy surrounding Anakin Skywalker, who was believed to be the Chosen One destined to bring balance by defeating the Sith. However, by this point in the timeline, it is clear that Anakin has fallen and become Darth Vader. Obi-Wan might see Luke as the new hope who can fulfill the prophecy that Anakin was originally thought to embody.

Special Individual

Alternatively, Obi-Wan may be acknowledging Luke's potential and significance as a special person who can bring about change and hope in the galaxy regardless of the original prophecy. This interpretation emphasizes Luke's role as a new generation of Jedi and a beacon of hope against the darkness. In essence, Obi-Wan's statement encapsulates both the idea that Luke represents a continuation of the Chosen One narrative and his unique importance in the fight against the Sith. It reflects a shift in the understanding of the prophecy and the role of destiny in the Star Wars saga.

A Historical Perspective

Obi-Wan assumed that since Anakin no longer exists but his son does, it would be up to Luke to fulfill the prophecy that Anakin never did. Luke never actually did bring balance, and Vader ended up fulfilling the prophecy by finally killing the Emperor and bringing balance. Luke was instrumental in securing victory against the Empire and bringing hope to the galaxy.

The Force and Prophecy

He meant the same prophesied Chosen One as Anakin. From Obi-Wan's perspective, Anakin turned to the Dark Side and was beyond redemption, so he couldn't be the Chosen One anymore. However, the Force saw the good in Anakin, as it did with Padmé and Luke, despite his fall from the light.

The surviving Jedi have the right to be upset over what happened to Anakin and their role in his turning to the Dark Side. However, the Force works in ways beyond Kenobi's and Yoda's comprehension. When it comes to prophecies in the Star Wars universe, the exact details on how and when they are fulfilled are not set in stone, but the person meant to fulfill them doesn't change.

In the end, Obi-Wan and Yoda were happy to be proven wrong, and the faith of Padmé, Luke, and the Force in Anakin's inner goodness was rewarded.