Rey's Levitation in The Rise of Skywalker: An Analysis of Magic and Meditation

The moment Rey levitates herself and the rocks around her in The Rise of Skywalker has puzzled viewers. This ability, while impressive, raises questions about its practical application during critical moments. This analysis explores the reasons behind Rey's inability to use levitation in the life-or-death scenario of sinking in quicksand.

Context and Implied Meaning

The scene wherein Rey is able to levitate herself and the rocks around her is a crucial point in the narrative. It showcases her control over the Force and her Jedi powers. However, it is important to consider the environment and context in which this ability is used.

Is Rey levitating because she is trying to reach the spirits of past Jedi and meditating? The circumstances suggest a meditative state, implying a powerful connection to the Force and great concentration. Meditation is not an instantaneous action. It requires time, a calm environment, and the absence of external stressors.

Comparison with Harry Potter

The instance of Hermione's magic in the Harry Potter series provides a useful comparison. In the classroom setting, Hermione can cast spells effortlessly. However, in more stressful or unexpected situations, she panics and requires guidance to use her abilities. This contrast highlights the difference between a controlled environment and a life-or-death scenario.

Similarly, in the The Rise of Skywalker, while levitation is an impressive feat, it may not be practical in a moment of crisis. The quicksand scenario presents a chaotic and intense environment, making it difficult to achieve the kind of mental and physical state required for levitation.

Scriptwriting and In-Universe Answers

The answer to why Rey cannot levitate when in quicksand can be found in the realm of scriptwriting. The scriptwriters likely intended levitation to be a specific and controlled action, rather than a hasty response to danger.

Perhaps the only in-universe answer is that levitation, like any advanced use of the Force, requires deep meditation and concentration. It is not something one can perform impulsively or in a moment of stress.

Historical References: Floating Meditation

While levitation in The Rise of Skywalker might seem magical, it is inspired by historical instances in the Star Wars universe. Legends of Star Wars reveal characters such as Revan and Jacen Solo who were capable of performing feats associated with floating meditation. These techniques draw from deep meditative practices that have been known in various cultures and traditions.

Revan, for instance, was known for his mastery over the Force and his ability to use advanced techniques. Jacen Solo's powerful connection to the Force in the legends also suggests that levitation and other advanced abilities require a specific state of mind and body, often achieved through prolonged meditation.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

The why behind Rey's inability to levitate when in quicksand is a nuanced and multifaceted issue. It reflects the practical application of magic and the importance of meditative focus in the Star Wars universe. The comparison with characters such as Hermione from Harry Potter and the historical references from Star Wars legends provide valuable context for understanding this pivotal moment in The Rise of Skywalker.

Whether it is due to the stress of the situation or the need for meditative focus, this scene adds to the rich tapestry of the Star Wars story, highlighting the challenges of using advanced abilities in high-stakes situations.