Rey and Maz Kanata share a deep and mysterious connection in the Star Wars saga. Daisy Ridley portrays Rey, a scavenger from Jakku with an untapped connection to the Force. Lupita Nyong’o brings Maz Kanata to life, an ancient and wise pirate with knowledge of the galaxy’s secrets. Their meeting in The Force Awakens marks a turning point in Rey’s journey and establishes Maz as a vital guide in the larger Star Wars story.
Maz Kanata’s Role as a Guide
Maz Kanata, introduced in The Force Awakens, resides in a castle on Takodana. Known as a collector of ancient artifacts, Maz has lived for over a thousand years. The galaxy views her as a neutral figure, avoiding direct allegiance to the Jedi or the Sith. Despite this, Maz possesses a profound understanding of the Force and its nature.
Maz’s castle becomes a refuge for smugglers, wanderers, and those seeking wisdom. The first meeting with Rey happens here. Maz immediately senses something unique about Rey, even before learning much about the scavenger’s past or destiny. The way Maz observes and speaks to Rey suggests an understanding of her potential and the importance of the moment.
Maz Kanata plays a pivotal role in bridging Rey’s future with her past. The castle holds more than just travelers and adventurers. It holds a key that will alter Rey’s path forever: the Skywalker lightsaber.
Rey’s Discovery of the Skywalker Lightsaber
Rey’s life changes when the Skywalker lightsaber calls out through the Force. Hidden in a chest within Maz Kanata’s castle, the lightsaber reaches out to Rey through visions. These visions show glimpses of Luke Skywalker, Kylo Ren, and moments tied to the Jedi and Sith conflict. This connection shakes Rey to the core, revealing parts of a galaxy she had never known.
Maz explains the significance of the lightsaber. This is the weapon once carried by Anakin Skywalker and later Luke Skywalker. When Maz tells Rey that the lightsaber is calling out, it becomes clear that Rey’s destiny is intertwined with the legacy of the Jedi.
Despite Rey’s initial fear and refusal to accept the lightsaber, Maz’s words linger. The lightsaber represents more than a weapon. It is a symbol of heritage, courage, and responsibility. Maz’s wisdom helps plant the seed of belief in Rey, even if the scavenger is not yet ready to embrace the truth about herself.
The Wisdom of Maz Kanata
Maz Kanata’s dialogue with Rey is one of the most important moments in The Force Awakens. While many characters rely on tangible resources like weapons or ships, Maz focuses on the intangible. The wisdom shared reflects a deep understanding of the Force. Maz emphasizes that the Force binds all living things and that Rey’s future is hers to decide.
Maz’s ability to perceive Rey’s struggle highlights her insight. Knowing that Rey is searching for belonging, Maz provides encouragement without forcing decisions. This moment of guidance echoes the mentorship seen in other Jedi figures, though Maz herself is not a Jedi. The approach makes Maz Kanata stand out as a unique mentor.
A Connection Rooted in the Force
The connection between Rey and Maz Kanata is heavily rooted in the Force. While the Jedi Order is no longer prominent in the galaxy during The Force Awakens, Maz understands that the Force will continue to find new champions. Rey represents one such champion, though her path is unclear.
Maz Kanata also seems to recognize that Rey’s story is just beginning. The presence of the Skywalker lightsaber and Rey’s strong reaction to it reinforce this belief. Maz’s ability to perceive Rey’s Force sensitivity further proves her expertise and intuition. The wisdom shared builds a bridge between Rey’s past and the legacy of the Jedi.
The Attack on Takodana
Their connection deepens during the attack on Maz Kanata’s castle. The First Order strikes the fortress, forcing everyone to fight or flee. Rey faces danger for the first time on a larger scale. Although Rey refuses the lightsaber earlier, Maz ensures it remains protected.
Maz Kanata entrusts the lightsaber to Finn during this battle. This decision underscores Maz’s faith in the people surrounding Rey. The fight against the First Order shows Rey’s bravery and willingness to stand against overwhelming odds. These qualities confirm what Maz already suspects: Rey’s destiny is far greater than she realizes.
Beyond Takodana: The Lasting Influence
Rey and Maz Kanata cross paths again briefly in The Rise of Skywalker. Maz’s continued presence reinforces her role as a source of wisdom. By this point, Rey has embraced her connection to the Force and the legacy of the Jedi. The earlier moments shared between the two characters set the foundation for Rey’s growth.
Maz’s belief in Rey never wavers. Even as the galaxy falls into chaos, Maz remains a figure of stability. The lightsaber once housed in her castle has returned to its rightful place in Rey’s hands. This moment comes full circle, solidifying the importance of their initial connection.
Legacy of Rey and Maz Kanata
The bond between Rey and Maz Kanata represents more than just a mentor-student relationship. It highlights the enduring power of the Force and the way it guides individuals toward their destiny. Maz’s role in protecting and passing down the Skywalker lightsaber reflects the ongoing legacy of the Jedi.
Rey’s journey from a scavenger to a Jedi is intertwined with Maz’s wisdom and guidance. The connection between these two characters demonstrates how even brief interactions can shape the future of the galaxy. Without Maz Kanata, Rey might not have discovered the truth about herself or embraced the path of the Jedi. Their bond serves as a reminder that the Force works in mysterious ways, always finding the right people at the right time.
