Force Lightning

Force lightning is an energy attack associated with the dark side of the Force in the Star Wars continuum. It is also known as Sith lightning. Force lightning is a directed discharge of Force energy from one or more of the users limbs that causes extreme pain to the body, mind, and spirit, making it an extremely unpleasant and thorough form of torture. It can be used to electrocute someone nearly instantaneously, with enough power behind it. In the films, both Emperor Palpatine and Darth Tyranus use Force lightning on opponents.

Force lightning can be grounded on a lightsaber or absorbed and deflected or redirected by light side Force users with enough control and power. The Jedi Council forbid the use of Force lightning, though a few Jedi in the Star Wars Extended Universe have used it. It is impossible to use Force lightning without the ability to use the Force and it requires a high level of control.