What do we know about the Jaffa? Are they are distinct species from humans? A subspecies?
In several episodes remarks are made about the Jaffa. Sometimes to the effect that Jaffa are not human, sometimes hinting at some link between the two but usually implying that a Jaffa would not be able to become the host of the larval Goa'uld s/he is "incubating".
In episode "The Other Side" (S04/02) the leader of the Eurondans has a brief dialogue with Te'alc:
Alar: You are not of their kin?
Te'alc: I am in fact a Jaffa ... though like you our ancestors are descendants of the Tau'ri.
So if the Jaffa are descendants of ancient humans what makes them so different? Why can't they become Goa'uld hosts themselves? Has this been explained in SG-1 lore and I merely missed it?
Best Answer
The origins of the Jaffa aren't given much detail in the series - however, apart from the symbiote pouch and the improved immunity from hosting the symbiote, they don't appear to be much different from humans.
We do know that the first prim'ta - the placing of the symbiote - took place on Dakara (season 8's Reckoning), but not exactly when.
We also see Hathor (in her season 1 appearance) turn O'Neill into a Jaffa by creating a symbiote pouch in his abdomen using some kind of a device - implying this was how the first Jaffa were created.
As to why they don't make good hosts - I think season 4's The First Ones just says outright that its impossible, though it doesn't say why.
Pictures about "What do we know about the Jaffa? Are they are distinct species from humans? A subspecies?"
Are Jaffa humans?
Jaffa have a human appearance but have an abdominal pouch which serves as an incubator for a larval Goa'uld. The larval symbiote grants enhanced strength, health, healing, and longevity.Do all Jaffa have a symbiote?
Let me elaborate on the question: All Jaffa require a symbiote, after a certain age. For all Jaffa to have a prim'ta, a Goa'uld Queen must spawn numerous larval Goa'uld. Keeping in mind that a lot of Jaffa die in battle, that the Goa'uld System Lords like to eat some mature symbiotes (SG1: "Summit") and ...How old do Jaffa get?
The incubation process is a mutual symbiosis, and having a prim'tah inside of them grants each Jaffa enhanced strength, health, healing, and longevity (increasing their lifespan to an excess of 150 years).What are the Jaffa Stargate?
Jaffa are a society of warriors and bear the mark of their "gods", a black symbol tattooed on the foreheads. They are indoctrinated to believe the Goa'uld to be gods, and did not see themselves as slaves until the advent of the Jaffa Rebellion.7 Facts You Didn't Know About Jaffa
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