In the Star Wars universe, Jedi are categorized into six distinct ranks, as detailed in the 2020 book, The Star Wars Book.
- Initiates – potential Jedi brought to the Jedi Temple at a young age
- Younglings – children trained in the ways of the Force, often under Yoda’s supervision
- Jedi Padawans – apprentices assigned to work under a single Jedi Master
- Jedi Knights – a Padawan who has successfully passed their Jedi Trial
- Jedi Master – a Jedi who has successfully trained a Padawan, to the point they have passed their trial
The sixth rank, known as Grandmaster, is the most enigmatic. Very few Jedi have ever achieved it. While Yoda was the only Grandmaster during the prequel films, he did share the title with other Jedi during the High Republic period.
What Is a Jedi Grandmaster?
Within the official Star Wars story, the title of “Grandmaster” seems to be an honor given to the most insightful and experienced Jedi. Grandmasters are always members of the Jedi Council, and other Jedi look to them for advice on important decisions. They work closely with the Master of the Order – a Jedi elected to manage the daily operations of the Jedi Order, like Mace Windu was during the prequel films. This explains why Yoda and Mace Windu often led so many missions, sometimes even without consulting the rest of the Council.
As Jedi grow older and more experienced, they often gain deeper wisdom – and because many Jedi Grandmasters are not human, it suggests they’ve had centuries to master the Force. While Yoda seemed to work solo in the prequel films, during the High Republic period he was part of a team – likely with three or four other powerful Jedi. Even then, though, Yoda was clearly the leader and others often looked to him for guidance.
In older Star Wars stories, the leader of the Jedi, known as the Grandmaster, was chosen through an election. However, those stories are no longer considered official canon – they’re now called “Legends.” Currently, it appears the Grandmaster isn’t a formally appointed position, but rather one that developed over time. A Grandmaster seems to be a Jedi who earns the respect of their peers and gains influence through a long and impactful life – a description that fits Yoda very well.
In the older, non-official Star Wars stories (Legends), Luke Skywalker took on the title of Jedi Grandmaster, which felt unusual for his character. However, in the current official storyline (canon), Luke was never referred to as ‘Grandmaster,’ and that’s likely a good thing. With so many records of the old Jedi Order lost, it’s possible this title won’t be used again.
What do you think? Leave a comment below and join the conversation now in the ComicBook Forum!
Read More
- Ashes of Creation Rogue Guide for Beginners
- Best Controller Settings for ARC Raiders
- Meet the cast of Mighty Nein: Every Critical Role character explained
- How To Watch Call The Midwife 2025 Christmas Special Online And Stream Both Episodes Free From Anywhere
- Avatar 3 Popcorn Buckets Bring Banshees From Pandora to Life
- Tougen Anki Episode 24 Release Date, Time, Where to Watch
- Eldegarde, formerly Legacy: Steel & Sorcery, launches January 21, 2026
- 7 Most Powerful Stranger Things Characters Ranked (Including the Demogorgon)
- Fishing Guide in Where Winds Meet
- Paramount+ Just Added One of the Best Sci-Fi Trilogies of All Time
2025-12-26 19:41