Does Qui-Gon Jinn Regret Asking Obi-Wan to Train Anakin?

Introduction

In Star Wars, the decision of Qui-Gon Jinn to ask Obi-Wan Kenobi to train Anakin Skywalker was pivotal. Although Qui-Gon never explicitly expressed regret about this decision, the consequences of Anakin's eventual fall to the dark side and subsequent tragedies suggest a level of contemplation behind Qui-Gon's choices.

Qui-Gon Jinn's Decision and Its Consequences

Qui-Gon believed Anakin was the Chosen One destined to bring balance to the Force. He recognized potential in Anakin that others did not. This belief motivated him to advocate for Anakin's training. In Star Wars: The Clone Wars and other media, Qui-Gon's spirit appears to Obi-Wan and Yoda, emphasizing the importance of hope and redemption. These scenes suggest that while Qui-Gon acknowledges the consequences of his decisions, he maintains faith in Anakin's potential for good.

The Fate of Anakin Skywalker

The books reveal that Anakin's nightmares began the day he slaughtered the Sand People. This event, and others in Anakin's life, paint a picture of a character deeply affected by his choices and the burden of his destiny. Anakin's transformation into Darth Vader is a direct result of the path Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan chose to embark upon. Given this, it is highly likely that Qui-Gon experienced some form of regret over the decision to train Anakin.

Qui-Gon Jinn as a Force Ghost

Qui-Gon Jinn is a Force Ghost, a Jedi who has become one with the Force and has gained the ability to temporarily manifest in the form of who he once was. Force Ghosts like Qui-Gon cannot directly influence the physical world or alter past events. They can, however, communicate with select individuals who had a connection with them, as seen with Yoda in Star Wars: The Clone Wars. Qui-Gon's spirit's inability to persuade the Jedi Council further suggests the unchangeable nature of his choices.

Conclusion

The ramifications of Qui-Gon's decision to train Anakin are profound. While he did not explicitly express regret, the weight of destiny and the tragic outcome of Anakin's fall to the dark side likely caused him to reflect deeply. Qui-Gon's perspective is more about understanding the broader picture of fate and destiny than personal regret. His influence on the course of events and the legacy of the Force echo through the Star Wars saga.