Who Is Eeth Koth? The Zabrak Jedi Guardian of the Republic

Have you ever wondered about the untold stories of the Jedi Guardian who fought bravely against the Empire? Eeth Koth, a Zabrak Jedi Master, played by Hassani Shapi, was one of such characters in Star Wars who was a fierce warrior and a member of the Jedi Council. Koth was well known for his skill in Form V, of lightsaber combat and his resilience to pain due to his Zabrak heritage. 

Though Eeth Koth played a significant role in Star Wars, his fate remained unknown until the Darth Vader comics series. Let's dive in further to know more about Eeth Koth’s life, from his early days in the Jedi Order to his role in Clone Wars and then his survival of Order 66.

Early Life

Eeth Koth was born on Nar Shaddaa and lived his early years as an orphan. At the age of four, he was discovered to be Force-sensitive and was taken to Coruscant to begin his training as a Jedi. Due to his age, the Jedi Council was reluctant to accept him, but his determination, clear mind, and strong connection to the Force convinced the Jedi High Council to let him into the Jedi Order. 

Mastering the Lightsaber

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Following the path of Jedi Guardians before him, Koth constructed a single bladed green lightsaber. As a Jedi, he used to go on various dangerous missions across the galaxy assigned by the Jedi Council, including operations on the Outer Rim. Koth’s skill in combat and his unwavering loyalty and commitment were soon recognized by the Jedi High Council, and he was eventually promoted to the rank of the Jedi Master. 

Yinchorri Uprising

Eeth Koth played a significant role in the mission of the Yinchorri Uprising, in which the Yinchorri species began an uprising against the Republic. The Jedi Council selected a team of ten Jedi, including Eeth Koth, Mace Windu, Adi Gallia, Plo Koon, and others, to go and end the conflict. 

Koth's team, sent to Yitheeth, was attacked by Yinchorri warriors but they survived. Afterwards, they helped Mace Windu on Yinchorr, where Koth led the charge through enemy forces. During the battle, Padawan Theen Fida was killed. Despite the losses, the Jedi were successful in ending the uprising. Koth’s leadership and combat skills during the mission solidified his reputation within the Jedi Order.

Eeth Koth's Role in the Jedi High Council

Due to his outstanding combat abilities and sharp strategic mind, Koth was appointed to the Jedi High Council before the Clone Wars. During his time on the Jedi Council, he worked alongside many notable Jedi Masters, including Mace Windu and Yoda. Koth played an active role in major decision-making during this critical time, voicing his strong support for the Jedi’s role as protectors of peace and justice. His experience on the battlefield gave him a unique perspective, which was valuable in the chaotic times leading up to the Clone Wars.

The Battle of Geonosis

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Eeth Koth participated in the Battle of Geonosis, which was an important battle during the Clone Wars. Koth was a part of the Jedi team that was sent to rescue Obi-Wan Kenobi, Anakin Skywalker, and Senator Padme Amidala on the Geonosis. He fought alongside fellow Jedi against the Separatist Droid Army until they were saved by Yoda and the Clone Army. After boarding a gunship with Sora Bulq and Tarados Gon to continue the battle, their ship was hit by Separatist fire, crashing onto the plains. Koth was able to survive this attack and return to Coruscant, ready to fight further missions.

Captured by General Grievous

In the Star Wars: The Clone Wars animated series, Eeth Koth was positioned on a Republic ship in the Outer Rim where he was leading a force against the Separatists. On this ship, he was ambushed by General Grievous, who wanted to use him to trap other Jedi. Grievous broadcasted the torture of Koth as a means to intimidate the Jedi High Council. Despite being severely tortured by Grievous, Koth remained resilient and strong. While he was getting tortured, Koth managed to communicate his location to the Jedi Council using Jedi sign language. Using this information Obi-Wan Kenobi, Anakin Skywalker, and Adi Gallia went on a mission to rescue him. 

Order 66: The Fall of the Jedi

Emperor Palpatine executed Order 66 to wipe out all Jedi from the galaxy, and Eeth Koth, being one of the high-ranking members of the Jedi Order, was one of the main targets. However, he retreated and survived the Great Jedi Purge. As the Galactic Empire rose to power, Koth kept himself hidden until his revelation in Darth Vader: Dark Lord of the Sith comics. 

Revelation about Koth's Secret Existence

After Order 66, Eeth Koth sought a new life. He abandoned the Jedi Order, married a Zabrak woman named Mira, and even had a child. Koth tried to live peacefully, away from the reach of the Empire. However, the identity of Koth as a Jedi could not remain hidden for long, and in Marvel comics, Darth Vader tracked him while hunting for any remaining Jedi. 

Confrontation with Darth Vader

Koth’s final confrontation with Darth Vader is depicted as a tragic moment. Despite having left the Jedi Order, Koth could not escape his past. Vader, under orders from Emperor Palpatine to eliminate any surviving Jedi, tracked Koth down with his family. In an intense duel, Koth fought bravely against his former companion, now transformed into the dark enforcer of the Sith. Although Koth was a skilled Jedi, he died at the hands of Vader, and his death marked the end of his journey! 

Legacy of Eeth Koth

Eeth Koth’s legacy as a Jedi Guardian and Council member is significant. His exceptional skills and dedication to the Jedi Order, even in the worst conditions, make him a symbol of strength and resilience. His ability to endure physical pain and maintain focus highlights his strength as a Zabrak.

Though Koth’s life tragically ended in a duel with Darth Vader, his journey from an orphan on Nar Shaddaa to a revered Jedi Master is a testament to the courage and resilience of the Jedi during the Republic's final years. His survival post-Order 66 and his attempt to live peacefully also add a human element to the tragic story of the Jedi purge.

FAQ’s 

Why did Eeth Koth leave the Jedi Order? 

Eeth Koth left the Jedi Order after the Clone Wars, seeking a life outside the conflict. He eventually started a family, living in hiding to escape the Empire’s wrath. 

How powerful was Eeth Koth? 

Eeth Koth was a highly skilled Jedi Master, known for his mastery of lightsaber combat and strong resistance to pain, a trait of his Zabrak species. He also briefly served on the Jedi Council.

How did Eeth Koth die? 

Eeth Koth was killed by Darth Vader after being hunted down by the Empire after surviving the Jedi Purge. He died defending his family in a final confrontation.

What was the lightsaber color of Eeth Koth? 

Koth wielded a green lightsaber, which demonstrated his strong connection to the Force.