Human Religion

Human

Human Religion

NOTE: These are considered the generally accepted interpretations of religion by most in Mercadian society, and certainly within Edana. That is not to say in the pursuit of your roleplay, you cannot come up with your own interpretations, rituals, or tenets. These can be welcome sources for in character development and conflict, and depending on their interpretation or adaptation could even be added/edited here based on in game roleplay. It is also important to note that humans have the option to choose a cultist religion, or not practice a religion at all. What is written here is simply to help you shape your character for the play space.

• You can view your character's religion with the ]faith command.

• In this iteration of the shard, this has no mechanical effect for your character. That does not mean it may not be leveraged later on for quest or other mechanical purposes. This statement will be updated to reflect that at least to the degree it can be without giving anything away when spoilers are inappropriate.

Kamalini - Governs Ambition, Drive, and Desire

Often referred to as "The Mother", Kamalini is revered as a formidable and ever-present deity by her disciples. Governing realms of ambition, determination, carnal desire, and the quest for power and wealth, Kamalini is believed to embody the fundamental forces that have shaped human evolution and progress. The followers of Kamalini maintain that the quintessence of humanity is rooted in her essence. This belief springs from the notion that since sexual desire, which is pivotal to human nature and under Kamalini’s aegis, leads to procreation, Kamalini is symbolically the Progenitor of Humanity. Her devotees comprise a diverse array of individuals and communities, united by their shared adherence to Kamalini's tenets. Though Kamalini is associated with qualities that may be perceived as negative or sinful, like avarice or lust, her followers contend that these traits are essential catalysts for human advancement. They posit that Kamalini nurtures these attributes to motivate her followers to excel, surmount obstacles, and unlock the full scope of human capabilities. Kamalini is the consort of Kinurugi and sister to Adalia.

Devotees of Kamalini

• Warriors, especially those who are highly ambitious and prideful, regard themselves as the chosen few anointed by The Mother. They attribute their martial skills and dominance to Kamalini’s blessings. Their ambitions are ignited by this conviction, propelling them to strive for more triumphs and acquire greater might.

• Merchants, a significant contingent among Kamalini’s followers, seek her patronage to amplify their acquisitiveness and their yearning for wealth. Inspired by the allure of monetary success, they revere Kamalini as an emblem of affluence and fortune. They are convinced that their business achievements are a testament to Kamalini's favor.

• For ordinary people, faith in Kamalini manifests in a zest for life’s simple pleasures. They perceive their desires as innate and regard fulfilling them as Kamalini’s blessings. Whether savoring a delectable meal, cherishing good company, or deriving contentment from daily activities, they interpret these joys as reflections of Kamalini’s munificence.

Rituals

• Awakening of Will: A daily ritual at dawn where followers commit themselves to a day of purpose, reflecting on their ambitions and the paths they'll take to achieve them. They light a candle and let it burn until it naturally extinguishes, symbolizing their burning ambition.

• Rite of Passage: A ceremony marking the transition from adolescence to adulthood. This rite involves a public declaration of one's ambitions and desires. In this declaration, followers commit themselves to relentlessly pursue their personal goals.

• Sacrifice of Hindrance: On the first day of each new moon, followers list their failures, doubts, and fears from the past month, then burn the paper as a symbol of overcoming obstacles and clearing the way for continued growth and success.

• Feast of Desire: An annual celebration centered around indulging in one's passions, whether they be physical, emotional, or intellectual. During this feast, followers celebrate Kamalini's gift of desire and the pleasure and motivation it brings.

• Pilgrimage of Determination: A once in a lifetime journey that followers are encouraged to undertake, to a place of personal significance related to their ambition or desires. It is believed that this journey, when undertaken with true commitment, strengthens the followers' resolve and determination.

Tenets of the Faithful

• Willful Ambition: Followers are encouraged to set high goals for themselves and to constantly strive to achieve them.

• Unyielding Determination: Followers must not be deterred by failures or setbacks but see them as opportunities for growth and renewed resolve.

• Sacred Desire: Carnal desires are not to be suppressed but embraced as natural and necessary. They are viewed as a powerful driving force in achieving one's ambitions.

• Persistence: Followers should persist in their endeavors, in line with the saying "The Mother rewards those who persist."

• Self-Reliance: Dependence on others is discouraged. Followers are urged to cultivate self-sufficiency and believe in their ability to shape their destiny.

• Harmony of Will: Followers should strive to align their personal ambitions with the greater good, acknowledging that personal ambition and community well-being are not mutually exclusive. The pursuit of personal goals should also serve the community.

Kamalini's Prayer

In the citadels of our hearts, We seek thy guidance, oh Mighty Kamalini, The Mother, Whose light bathes our ambition and ignites our desires, We gather our voices in sacred unity, acknowledging thy grandeur.

In the dance of creation, it is you who steps forward, In the throbbing pulse of longing, it is you who vibrates, In the relentless march of progress, it is you who leads. You, who shapes the clay of our becoming, And breathes life into the void of potential.

You who stir the hunger of the soul, The fire in the belly, The passion in the breast, We bow before thee, in reverence of your divine provocation.

Oh Kamalini, mistress of the mighty and the meek, Keeper of the key to the cosmic cycle, Unveil before us the path to our ascension, For we are yours, crafted in your potent image, Inheritor of your indomitable spirit, drawn towards your beckoning radiance.

We embrace the shadows cast by our earthly yearnings, Recognizing their origins in your boundless essence. Lust, avarice, desire - not sins, but the holy trinity of your teachings, That impel us to breach the barricades of mediocrity and complacency.

We pray for your benediction, oh Mother, Bestow upon us the fortitude to navigate the labyrinth of existence, To endure, to excel, and to embody your indomitable will, To unlock our potential, and find our place among the stars.

In the fervor of our striving, In the stillness of our satisfaction, You are there, Kamalini, In every triumph, every trial, Every tear, every smile.

Oh Kamalini, Progenitor of Humanity, Your essence is the melody that gives rhythm to the human symphony, With hands clasped and hearts ablaze, We honor you, The Mother, and strive in your name.

So it has been, so it shall be.

Kinurugi - Governs Life and Death

Devotees of Kinurugi often seek solace in his presence, believing that through embracing the certainty of death, they can find the strength to pursue their ambitions fearlessly. They view Kinurugi as a guiding force, guiding them through life's challenges and ultimately leading them to their destined end. Necromancy, which disrupts the natural order by attempting to manipulate death, is vehemently opposed by Kinurugi's followers. They believe that meddling with the deceased is a grave offense against their deity and the sacred cycle of life. They view necromancers as defying Kinurugi's will and seek to thwart their efforts to subvert the natural flow of souls. Kinurugi's dominion over death and his crucial role in the cycle of life make him a revered figure among believers. His partnership with Kamalini and his sibling bond with Talthalas solidify his significance in the pantheon, representing the fundamental aspects of mortality, ambition, and order that shape the world. Kinurugi's relationship with Kamalini goes beyond their divine duties, as they are seen as a romantic pair, representing the intricate balance between ambition and mortality. Their union symbolizes the inseparable connection between the desire to achieve and the inevitable passage of time. As Talthalas's sibling, Kinurugi shares a deep bond with the god of law and order. Their combined influence ensures that the cycle of life and death operates within the boundaries of a just and balanced universe. They work in harmony to maintain the natural order and prevent any disruption or imbalance.

Devotees of Kinurugi

• Warriors from diverse backgrounds revere death as their inevitable companion. Those devoted to Kinurugi believe they traverse the mortal plane until summoned by The Father.

• Commoners may worship Kinurugi for various reasons, such as praying for the protection of their kin and livestock, or seeking solace in the belief that their departed loved ones are at peace under The Father's care.

Rituals

• Rite of Passage: When a devotee of Kinurugi reaches a significant milestone or experiences a major life change, they undergo a solemn ritual known as the Rite of Passage. This ritual symbolizes the transition from one phase of life to another, invoking Kinurugi's guidance and acceptance of the individual's new role or responsibilities.

• Last Embrace: When a person passes away, their loved ones gather to perform the Last Embrace, a ritual where they bid farewell to the departing soul. The body is prepared with care and adorned with symbols of Kinurugi, such as feathers or black ribbons, and then laid to rest in a solemn ceremony. The ritual involves prayers for a peaceful journey to the afterlife and the release of the soul into Kinurugi's care.

• Vigil of the Departed: On certain designated nights, followers of Kinurugi gather in cemeteries or sacred spaces to hold a Vigil of the Departed. They light candles or lanterns, symbolizing the souls of the deceased, and spend the night in quiet contemplation and remembrance. This ritual is a way to honor those who have passed and reinforce the cycle of life and death.

• Dance of Shadows: The Dance of Shadows is a sacred performance dedicated to Kinurugi, representing the fluidity between life and death. Devotees dress in black or dark garments and move in synchrony, imitating the graceful flow of souls transitioning from the mortal realm to the afterlife. The dance is accompanied by haunting melodies and serves as a reminder of the ephemeral nature of existence.

• Offering of Remembrance: To express gratitude and seek the favor of Kinurugi, followers make offerings of remembrance. These offerings may include items that held significance to the deceased, such as favorite foods, trinkets, or personal belongings. By presenting these items, devotees honor the memory of the departed and seek Kinurugi's continued guidance and protection.

• Ritual of Soulkindling: The Ritual of Soulkindling is a rare and sacred ceremony performed by highly skilled priests or priestesses of Kinurugi. It is believed to bestow a spark of life on those on the brink of death, revitalizing their spirits and granting them a second chance. The ritual requires intricate preparations, including rare herbs, sacred chants, and the presence of relics associated with Kinurugi. It is performed sparingly and with utmost care, as an exception to the natural order of life and death.

Tenets of the Faithful

• Embrace the Cycle: Followers of Kinurugi embrace the natural cycle of life and death, recognizing its inherent value and purpose. They strive to understand and respect the delicate balance between birth, life, and death, knowing that each phase is essential for the progression of existence.

• Shepherd with Compassion: Devotees of Kinurugi believe in embodying the virtues of compassion and empathy when interacting with the living and the departed. They see themselves as shepherds, helping guide souls to their final repose and supporting the bereaved through their grieving process.

• Honor the Departed: Kinurugi's followers hold a deep reverence for the departed and actively seek to honor their memories. They cherish the lessons learned from those who have passed and acknowledge the impact they had on shaping the world, striving to carry their legacies forward.

• Shun Necromancy: Necromancy is considered a desecration of the natural order by followers of Kinurugi. They vehemently oppose any attempts to manipulate or disrupt the spirits of the dead, believing that such actions disrupt the peaceful transition of souls and invite chaos into the world.

• Seek Meaning in Mortality: Kinurugi's faithful understand that mortality gives life its meaning and urgency. They strive to live purposefully, seeking personal growth, and contributing positively to the world while accepting the inevitability of their own eventual journey into the embrace of Kinurugi.

• Uphold Kinurugi's Will: Devotees regard themselves as instruments of Kinurugi's will, particularly in times of conflict or battle. They believe that their actions in warfare should align with the natural cycle of life and death, understanding that fighting for a just cause and ensuring a swift end for those whose time has come is a sacred duty.

Kinurugi's Prayer

Oh, Kinurugi, Keeper of the Final Rest, Master of Ends and the Hallowed Gate's Guest, To you we humbly speak, from hearts unafraid, For in your cool, dark cloak we find our strength laid.

Let your silent whisper echo in our soul, Teaching us to treasure every heart's role, For each beat is a gift, a breath that is loaned, And in the face of Death, our true selves are honed.

In your boundless wisdom, we seek our path, A fearless pursuit, absent of wrath, Gently guide us, Kinurugi, through life's stormy sea, Toward the destined end that only you foresee.

We honor the sacred cycle, the turn of life's wheel, We will not disturb the slumber of the still. To meddle with the departed is to earn your scorn, From the dust we arise, to the dust we return.

In your eternal shadow, we find clarity, The value of now, the joy of verity. Through embracing the end, we seize the day, With the certainty of death, we carve our way.

Guide us, Kinurugi, as we walk life's knotted line, With our ambitions kindled, under your divine sign. Lead us to honor the cycle, from birth until death, And find strength in each transient breath.

For we are but travelers in the grand design, Birthed from the cosmos, to the earth we are entwined. And when our journey concludes, under your starlit sky, We shall greet you, Kinurugi, with a fearless eye.

This is our prayer, our pact sealed in trust, For to you, Kinurugi, return we all must. Guide us through life's challenges, each rise and fall, In death we find solace, the most comforting call.

Until my final breath.

Talathas - Governs Justice, Law, and Order

Talathas, known as "The Shepherd," is revered as a deity who empowers individuals to uphold righteousness and dedicate themselves to the service of humanity. His followers embody inherent nobility, embracing virtues such as justice, integrity, and an unwavering defiance against tyranny. Worship of Talathas as the deity of Law attracts a devoted following that includes arbitrators, judges, and judicators, who seek guidance and inspiration in their pursuit of justice and the preservation of order. As the husband of Adalia, the goddess of healing and compassion, Talathas symbolizes the harmonious balance between justice and mercy. Together, they represent the inseparable nature of restoring and upholding both physical and moral well-being. Their union serves as a testament to the importance of combining justice and compassion in the pursuit of a harmonious society. Kinurugi, Talathas's brother and the god of death, controls the cycle of life. Although their domains may seem disparate, Talathas and Kinurugi's connection highlights the integral role that justice and mortality play in the human experience. While Talathas ensures order and righteousness during life, Kinurugi oversees the inevitable transition into death, maintaining the balance and cyclical nature of existence. Talathas's divine presence inspires his followers to be paragons of justice and to strive for a world where righteousness prevails. His teachings emphasize the power of individual actions in creating a just society, encouraging his devotees to embrace their roles as beacons of righteousness and defenders of the weak. Through their dedication to Talathas's principles, his followers contribute to the betterment of humanity and the preservation of order.

Devotees of Talathas

• Knights and squires; Idealistic and ambitious individuals who aspire to effectuate good deeds are often drawn to Talathas’s service.

• Judges and judicators; Those involved in legal justice systems, guided by Talathas’s principles of justice and fairness, ensure that the rule of law is upheld.

• Common folk; Those who believe in the inherent goodness of the world and the benevolence of the powerful often gravitate towards the worship of Talathas.

Tenets of Faithful

• Righteousness: The followers of Talathas strive to uphold and champion righteousness in all aspects of their lives. They believe in acting with moral integrity, fairness, and compassion towards others.

• Service to Humanity: Talathas' worshippers are committed to serving humanity and actively working towards the betterment of society. They believe in using their skills and resources to uplift and support those in need.

• Safeguarding the Vulnerable: The followers of Talathas understand the importance of protecting and advocating for the vulnerable members of society. They are dedicated to defending the rights and well-being of those who cannot defend themselves.

• Nobility: Talathas' followers embrace their inherent nobility, both in conduct and character. They strive to embody qualities such as honor, humility, and selflessness, acting as role models for others.

• Justice: The pursuit of justice is a central principle in the faith of Talathas. His followers value the establishment of a just society, where fairness, equality, and accountability are upheld.

• Defiance against Tyranny: The worshippers of Talathas stand against tyranny and oppressive forces. They are encouraged to resist unjust authority and promote freedom and liberation for all individuals.

Rituals

• The Rite of Balance: This ritual involves meditation and reflection to achieve inner harmony and balance. It is performed regularly to remind the followers of the importance of maintaining equilibrium in their lives.

• The Sacred Oath: This sacrament signifies a solemn commitment to uphold the tenets of Talathas' faith. It is a formal declaration made by devotees, symbolizing their dedication to righteousness, justice, and service.

• The Ritual of Judgment: Conducted by those in legal or arbitration professions, this ritual seeks divine guidance and wisdom in making fair and just decisions. It involves prayer, contemplation, and consultation of sacred texts.

• The Ceremony of Guardianship: This ritual is performed by Talathas' followers who serve as protectors of the vulnerable. It involves a symbolic act of pledging oneself to safeguard and advocate for those in need.

• The Ritual of Renewal: Celebrated annually, this ritual marks the renewal of commitment to Talathas' teachings. It involves a communal gathering, prayers of gratitude, and reflection on individual and collective growth.

• The Sacrament of Restoration: This sacrament is performed to seek forgiveness and restoration of harmony. It involves confession, repentance, and acts of restitution, promoting personal growth and reconciliation within the community.

Talathas's Prayer

O Talathas, Divine Shepherd, guide of the righteous and shield against the unjust, hear our humble prayer.

In the endless dance of galaxies, in the ceaseless turning of the seasons, we perceive the order you weave through the cosmos. Like the shepherd tending to his flock, your watchful eye sustains balance, engendering harmony and order where chaos seeks to rise.

We, your devoted servants, bow our heads and open our hearts, seeking your strength and guidance. Gift us with the wisdom to discern truth from falsehood, to uphold justice when darkness encroaches, and to maintain order in the midst of turmoil.

May our judgments be fair, our integrity unyielding, our defiance against tyranny resolute. Imbue our spirits with your steadfast dedication to service, that we may uplift humanity and be worthy vessels of your divine power.

Talathas, our Shepherd, guide our steps in the courts and fields alike. May our paths embody your divine laws, fostering peace and order wherever we tread. Make our hearts brave in the face of tyranny, our minds sharp in the pursuit of justice, and our spirits noble in the service of humankind.

By your divine light, may we become the guardians of order, the swords of justice, the bastions against chaos. Infuse our words with the resonance of your truth, that we may speak with authority, and guide others towards the path of righteousness.

Teach us patience, Talathas, in the face of transgressions. Show us the way of mercy, that we might temper justice with kindness. Guide us towards reconciliation, that we might mend what has been broken, heal what has been wounded, and unite what has been divided.

Bless us, Talathas, with the courage to persevere, even when our path becomes steep and treacherous. Grant us the strength to remain standing, when the storms of adversity seek to bend our resolve.

In your divine name, we pledge to uphold these principles, to defend the defenseless, to support the weak, to challenge the mighty, and to ensure the scales of justice remain balanced for all. Let our actions be a testament to your divine will, a beacon of hope in a world yearning for fairness and justice.

In your name, we pray, O Talathas, Shepherd of the Just and Guardian of Order. Guide us, protect us, empower us.

In your name (We/I) will serve.

Adalia - Governs Healing and Compassion

Adalia's teachings emphasize the importance of self-care and nurturing one's own well-being in order to better support others. She encourages her followers to prioritize their own healing journeys as a means of becoming more effective healers themselves. While Adalia promotes universal love, she also recognizes the need for personal boundaries and self-protection. She advises her followers to strike a balance between offering compassion and maintaining their own emotional stability. Adalia's influence extends beyond traditional healing practices, as she is known to inspire creativity and innovation in the pursuit of emotional and spiritual well-being. Many artists and musicians seek her guidance to infuse their work with healing intentions. Her relationship with Talathas and Kamalini demonstrates the interconnectedness of healing, justice, and ambition. Together, they form a trinity that represents the harmonious integration of personal growth, societal order, and compassionate healing. Adalia's followers often organize community outreach programs and charitable initiatives, driven by her teachings of empathy and understanding. They strive to create safe and inclusive spaces where healing can take place, fostering a sense of belonging and support for all who seek solace.

Devotees of Adalia

• Clerics and healers; Adalia's followers are driven by a mission to alleviate suffering, often serving as healers and clerics.

• Paladins; those who combat adversity and provide succor to the needy might worship Adalia.

• Common folk; Many individuals who harbor a charitable spirit and assist their peers find resonance with Adalia’s teachings.

Tenats of the Faithful

• Compassion: Adalia's followers strive to embody compassion in all aspects of their lives. They seek to understand the suffering of others and offer solace and healing without judgment or discrimination.

• Universal Love: Adalia teaches her followers to love unconditionally and without prejudice. They embrace the inherent worth and dignity of every individual, recognizing the interconnectedness of all beings.

• Healing Service: The followers of Adalia dedicate themselves to the service of healing others. They become skilled healers, clerics, or compassionate individuals, using their abilities to alleviate physical, emotional, and spiritual pain.

• Non-Judgment: Adalia's teachings emphasize the importance of refraining from judgment and condescension. Her followers strive to create a safe and accepting space for all, free from prejudice or biases.

• Emotional Support: Adalia's followers understand the power of emotional support and actively provide comfort and solace to those in need. They offer a listening ear, a caring presence, and words of encouragement to help others through their struggles.

• Self-Care: Adalia's teachings emphasize the necessity of self-care for healers. Her followers understand the importance of maintaining their own well-being, physically and emotionally, to continue serving others effectively.

Rituals

• Blessing of Healing Hands: This ritual involves a special ceremony where the followers of Adalia have their hands blessed by a senior cleric. It is believed that this blessing imbues them with enhanced healing abilities.

• Rite of Anointing: In this sacrament, a healer anoints the forehead or hands of the person seeking healing with a sacred oil, invoking Adalia's blessings for physical, emotional, or spiritual restoration.

• Circle of Compassion: Adalia's followers gather in a circle, holding hands or placing their hands on each other's shoulders, creating a physical and spiritual connection. They offer prayers and intentions for healing and send out positive energy to all in need.

• Renewal of Vows: Periodically, Adalia's followers participate in a ceremony where they renew their vows of compassion, love, and service to others. It serves as a reminder of their commitment to the faith and reinvigorates their sense of purpose.

• Labyrinth Walk: Followers of Adalia undertake a meditative walk through a labyrinth, symbolizing their spiritual journey toward healing and wholeness. As they navigate the winding path, they reflect on their intentions and seek guidance from Adalia.

• Communion of Nurturing: During this sacrament, a communal meal is shared, focusing on nourishing and healing foods. The followers partake in the feast while sharing stories of compassion and acts of healing, fostering a sense of unity and collective strength.

Adalia's Prayer

We seek the grace to embrace the teachings of Adalia, As we venture through this woven tapestry of life. Guide us as we learn to cultivate the gardens of our souls, Tending to each seed with gentle care and love.

Grant us the wisdom to discern when to pour out, And when to nurture the wellsprings within ourselves. Let us see the importance of our own healing journeys, As the path through which we become vessels of support.

Teach us, O Gracious One, to honor the sacredness In our own spirits, minds, and bodies. As we establish roots within, and branches reaching out, Let us be like strong trees, whose leaves bring shade to the weary.

May our hearts be ever open, yet safeguarded; An oasis in the desert, yet protected by a wall. Teach us to embrace love’s boundless power, While setting boundaries that guard our essence.

As we strive to mend the hearts of others, May we not forsake our own. Let the nourishment we partake in replenish our spirits, And guide our steps as we dance in the rhythm of compassion.

With every breath, let us be reminded, That our strength is but a reflection of your love. May we be both a sanctuary for others and for ourselves, As we follow Adalia’s teachings with grace and humility.

In your Infinite Wisdom and Love, we find our purpose. In your Divine Embrace, we seek our balance. Guide us, now and always, as we walk this sacred path, And may the light of Adalia’s teachings forever illuminate our way.

(I/We) walk in your light