The Wise Councils functioned as the councils in M'shinn culture. They governed M'shinn colony planets as well as their homeworld, Genassa. Each council was composed of the most senior member from each Rootline - the family units within M'shinn society - present on that specific planet. Their duty was to ensure equitable distribution of land among the various Rootlines. Under the Galactic Empire's rule, tensions arose within numerous councils. This was because Rootlines and colonies held differing opinions about the Empire, with some engaging in direct trade and others maintaining a more cautious, distant relationship with Imperial forces.
The first mention of the Councils of the Wise occurred in 1995, specifically within Galaxy Guide 12: Aliens — Enemies and Allies. This publication was part of the Galaxy Guide book series, created for Star Wars: The Roleplaying Game, and the entry about this species was authored by Lisa Smedman.