The Light Side of the Force, archaically known as the Ashla, was one of the three most widely known and understood philosophical alignments of the Force, associated with positive emotional manifestations, such as compassion, mercy, empathy, kindness, and hope. Among the Taesarites, it is simply called Light Energy.

The Light Side of the Force is the chief source of power called upon by the Jedi Order, a monastic religious order of peacekeepers and spiritualists famed throughout most of the greater galaxy. Due to its very nature and the qualities and traits necessary to keep in harmony with it, the Light Side of the Force is in direct conflict with the Dark Side of the Force, often becoming evident through conflicts of the stark followers of either side.

Calmness, joy and benevolence were common qualities found in adherents to the Light, and users were often noted to be especially ethical in the usage of their powers. Self-restraint was a trait found in virtually all loyal followers of the Light Side, as was generosity, wisdom, patience and harmony. Because of the inherent traits of Lightsiders, followers of the Light Side of the Force, particularly the Knights of the Jedi Order, were often welcomed by sapients across the galaxy and supported by thousands of governments - most notably the Galactic Republic.

Staunch followers of the Light Side also manifested common personal qualities involving their outlook on lives, including their own. All life was considered precious, even in such instances that deadly force would potentially be deemed necessary. In the case of innocent lives at risk, a Lightsider is often prone to self-sacrifice, and possibly due to the influence of the Light Side, tended to view themselves more as "tools" of the Light, prompting less focus on themselves as individuals and more on others and how they could use their powers in the greater benefit of all. Arguably the only thing the Light Side has common with the Dark Side is their supplemental philosophies; most notably the Living Force and the Unifying Force. Such philosophies are almost entirely delved into by either the Jedi or the Sith, for the Light and Dark Side, respectively, as opposed to Lightsiders in general.

As wielders of supernatural power, those who access the Light Side of the Force attain a number of powers unique to the Ashla's moral foundation, such as vast healing powers, the ability to cure diseases and poisons, the power to harmoniously manipulate life, the ability to project pure Light Side energies, and the power to absorb harmful Force energies, including those of the Dark Side of the Force. Due to the psychological conditioning involved with following the Light Side, adherents of the Light tend to lack the pure and raw power of followers of the Dark Side, but have superior finesse and discipline.