Maz Kanata, played by Lupita Nyong’o, is one of the most enigmatic figures in the Star Wars galaxy. Known as the wise and ancient pirate queen, Maz operates a castle on Takodana, a sanctuary for smugglers, bounty hunters, and wanderers. With an understanding of the Force that rivals many Jedi, questions arise about whether Maz Kanata is truly Force-sensitive. Despite never wielding a lightsaber or training as a Jedi, Maz displays knowledge and instincts that suggest a deeper connection to the mystical energy that binds the galaxy together.
The Ancient Eyes of Maz Kanata
Born over a thousand years before the fall of the Galactic Republic, Maz has witnessed the rise and fall of empires. A deep understanding of the Force is evident in the way Maz speaks about destiny and intuition. While some beings require training to sense the Force, Maz claims that the ability to “feel” the Force is something innate.
“Through the eyes of Maz, the Force is seen in all living things.” This statement, made in Star Wars: The Force Awakens, suggests a profound awareness of the energy field that the Jedi and Sith manipulate. While no formal training has ever been mentioned, Maz speaks of the Force with the wisdom of an elder Jedi Master.
The Connection to Luke Skywalker’s Lightsaber
One of the most mysterious moments involving Maz occurs when Rey discovers Anakin Skywalker’s lightsaber in the lower chambers of the Takodana castle. Maz states that the weapon is “calling” to Rey. This implies a strong connection to the Force, as sensing a lightsaber’s history is typically a rare gift known as psychometry, something usually seen in Force-sensitive beings like Cal Kestis and Quinlan Vos.
How did the lightsaber come into Maz’s possession? That question remains unanswered, but the ability to safeguard such a relic suggests a deep respect for the Force and an understanding of its power. Despite never claiming to be a Jedi, Maz appears to have a spiritual bond with the Force and its ancient artifacts.
Wisdom Beyond the Jedi and Sith
Unlike the Jedi or the Sith, Maz does not view the Force as something to be controlled. Instead, the Force is seen as an ever-present guide. This perspective sets Maz apart from traditional Force users.
In The Last Jedi, Maz communicates with the Resistance via hologram, offering insight into finding a master codebreaker. The ability to sense the right path in a moment of uncertainty demonstrates an extraordinary intuition, something often attributed to those attuned to the Force.
How Maz Kanata Sees the Force
Maz describes the Force as something that binds the galaxy together. This belief aligns with Jedi teachings but without the rigid structure of the Jedi Order. Instead of using the Force for combat or manipulation, Maz allows the energy to guide decisions and actions.
The lack of Force powers like telekinesis or mind tricks does not mean Maz is not Force-sensitive. Many Force-sensitive beings across the galaxy never become Jedi or Sith. Some, like Chirrut Îmwe of the Guardians of the Whills, have a deep connection to the Force without wielding a lightsaber or using traditional abilities.
The Role in the Rise of the Resistance
Maz plays a small yet significant role in the fight against the First Order. After the destruction of the Takodana castle, Maz assists the Resistance by directing them toward allies. A close relationship with Leia Organa suggests a mutual respect for those who understand the Force.
During the final battle in The Rise of Skywalker, Maz is present on Ajan Kloss, witnessing the passing of Leia. The moment of Leia’s final breath aligns with the passing of Ben Solo, an event Maz seems to understand without explanation. A deep awareness of the Force allows Maz to sense these transitions, much like Yoda and Obi-Wan Kenobi when Jedi pass into the Cosmic Force.
Is Maz Kanata Force-Sensitive?
The question remains unanswered in an official capacity, but all signs point to Maz having a strong connection to the Force. Unlike Jedi or Sith, Maz does not wield the Force as a weapon or tool. Instead, the Force is viewed as a guiding presence, one that speaks through feelings, visions, and ancient wisdom.
Legends speak of Force-sensitive individuals who never trained in the ways of the Jedi. Maz Kanata fits this description, standing as a unique figure in the galaxy. Whether formally recognized as Force-sensitive or not, Maz’s wisdom and instincts prove that a connection to the Force does not always require a lightsaber or a title.
Legacy of Maz Kanata
Over a thousand years of knowledge and experience shape Maz into a guardian of history and destiny. A role in the final battles against the First Order ensures that Maz’s influence extends beyond a single era. A philosophy of following intuition and trusting the Force sets Maz apart from traditional Force users. Unlike the Jedi and Sith, Maz teaches that the Force belongs to all living things, not just those who seek to control it.
The mysteries surrounding Maz Kanata remain, but one truth is certain—wisdom and the Force often go hand in hand.
