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 tenants. 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.

Kamalini

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.

Tenants 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.

Kinurugi

Often termed as "The Father," Kinurugi is heralded for his dominion over death. He is believed to shepherd souls to their final repose, culminating their earthly journey. Kinurugi's role is deemed indispensable in the cycle of life, as he paves the way for newer generations by calling upon those whose vigor has waned. Devotees of Kinurugi regard their actions in battle as a fulfillment of his will. Kinurugi and Kamalini are seen as a pair, with their domains operating harmoniously; Kamalini spurs life, while Kinurugi ushers it to conclusion. Followers of Kinurugi detest disruptions to this cycle, particularly necromancy. Kinurugi is also Talthalas’s sibling.

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.

Talathas

Known as "The Shepherd", Talathas empowers individuals to champion righteousness, serve humanity, and safeguard the vulnerable. His followers are inherently noble, valuing justice, integrity, and defiance against tyranny. He is Adalia's husband and Kinurugi's brother. As the deity of Law, his worshippers often include arbitrators, judges, and judicators.

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.

Adalia

Referred to as "The Healer", Adalia endows those who strive to console others. Clerics, healers, and compassionate individuals are often found among her followers. She advocates universal love, without judgment or condescension. Adalia is the spouse of Talathas and the sister of Kamalini.

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.

Tenants 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.