Dark Jedi
Dark Jedi is a somewhat misleading name given in the Star Wars fictional universe to those beings that are Force-attuned and adept at the dark side of the Force. Dark Jedi are not to be confused with Sith, that is, the Sith Order has its own codes and secrets, which are not known to any non-member even though who join the dark side of the Force. Dark Jedi usually refers to former Jedi who join the dark side. The first Dark Jedi led by Xendor were the ancestors of the Sith.
Because the term Sith was never heard from the dialogues in the original trilogy, early Expanded Universe products usually considered the "Evil Jedi", those who joined the dark side of the Force, as "Dark Jedi". In his infamous novel series The Thrawn Trilogy, Author Timothy Zahn labeled Sith Lord Darth Vader and Emperor Palpatine as Dark Jedi, and the term "Sith" was never mentioned in the series.
Dark Jedi use Force power for their own ends while attempting to utilize other powers of the Force, owing no allegiance. Strength and abilities are unrounded and often unhoned, e.g. while a Dark Jedi can use Jedi and Sith Force arts, only a true Jedi or Sith can master its nuances. True Sith and Jedi must be ordained and approved by their respective masters.
The term is a convenient shorthand description for such beings who can manipulate the Force. But it is nevertheless a misleading designation for the reason that many, if not most Dark Jedi, have never actually been members of the Jedi Order (especially after the Great Jedi Purge, in which case would be impossible). Emperor Palpatine trained many Force-sensitive beings in the ways of the Dark Side of the Force, but were never given the rights of Sith. Force-sensitive individuals seem to arise spontaneously and may definitely become adept at the Force without Jedi or Sith involvement. It is true, however, that many notable Dark Jedi have received at least some Jedi training.
It is also worthy of note that a Dark Jedi may not necessarily be evil. Dark Jedi are simply Force users that allow their emotions to empower them, rather than the Jedi method of purging emotion and gaining power via meditation and practice. Mara Jade is a primary example of a Dark Jedi who was able to use her abilities without being completely brainwashed by the Sith. Eventually, she turned from the Dark Side, but still carried the teachings of Emperor Palpatine with her, such as her lightsaber techniques.
Most notable among the Dark Jedi (besides the Sith Lords) is Asajj Ventress, Joruus C'Baoth, and (previously) Mara Jade.
See also
- Dark Jedi entry on Sith page