Religions

Religion, as a fundamental aspect of human culture, plays a vital role in shaping the beliefs, values, and practices of societies across Gotha. It serves as a guiding force, offering answers to profound questions about existence, purpose, and morality. The diversity of religious expressions reflects the richness and complexity of the human experience. In every corner of the world, societies have woven their unique cultural practices and belief systems into the fabric of their religious traditions. These traditions serve as the cornerstones of identity, providing individuals with a sense of belonging and offering communities a shared framework to navigate life's challenges and celebrations.

The Eleven major religious groupings on Gotha represent global systems with widespread influence and significant followings. Each religion has its own intricate set of rituals, doctrines, and sacred texts that guide its followers on matters of faith and conduct. These organized religions often have established institutions and clergy to oversee religious affairs and foster a sense of unity and purpose among their adherents. However, beyond the well-known global religions, the least advanced and populated regions of Gotha are home to a tapestry of indigenous beliefs and practices.

Throughout history, religious beliefs have played significant roles in shaping societies, influencing governance, art, architecture, and social norms. They have inspired great works of literature, artistic masterpieces, and magnificent structures that stand as testaments to human devotion and creativity. In a world as diverse as Gotha, religious beliefs often coexist, intermingle, and evolve through intercultural interactions. Such encounters lead to syncretism, where elements from different religions blend, giving rise to unique and hybrid belief systems that reflect the interconnectedness of human experience.

While religions can foster unity and compassion, they have also been a source of conflict and division. Throughout history, clashes of religious ideologies have led to wars, conquests, and persecutions. Religion, in its various forms, continues to shape the lives of individuals and communities on Gotha, providing them with guidance, solace, and a sense of purpose as they navigate the complexities of life's journey.

AKCHACKNISM		ANUR
Akchacknism is a polytheistic religion where deities reside in the celestial plane, manifesting as stars and planets. Followers revere these deities as life guardians, believing rituals can influence these beings. Central to Akchacknism is the belief in reincarnation, where souls either ascend towards spiritual growth or descend into obscurity based on their purity.		Anuric religions worship a singular deity, Aroth, symbolized by the sun and representing creation and destruction. While sharing similarities with Izhaic faiths, they emphasize distinct beliefs. Anur followers are notably tolerant, coexisting peacefully with other religions. Their worship involves gatherings under obelisks to venerate the sun and sacred fire, with ceremonies led by male clerics.
DLROCH'VELDR		ERECUND
Dlroch'veldr, the Wolgos' ancient monotheistic faith, originates from the Dnkluwos islands. Central to the faith is the deity Dlrocha, revered as both the universe's creator and a formidable god of retribution. The Wolgos perform rituals to appease Dlrocha and earn his favor. Their belief system encompasses a blend of shamanistic practices, mystic arts, and witchcraft. While Dlroch'veldr is exclusive to the Wolgos, designating non-Wolgos as outsiders, conquered territories see forced conversions under Wolgos rule.		Erecund's religion revolves around a diverse pantheon of gods reflecting human virtues and nature's marvels. Central to the belief is chivalry, emphasizing values like bravery, loyalty, and compassion, which not only honor the gods but also nurture community ties. Followers lean on faith, hope, and prayer, drawing strength and guidance from the deities. The three-pointed star symbol, signifying balance within a family and the primary virtues of chivalry, is especially revered. Erecund's main deity is the god of the soul, responsible for granting souls at birth and reclaiming them at death.
GUSO		IZHA
Guso centers on ancestral worship and the idea that life and death are intricately linked. Soul Keepers, the religion's clergy, have a unique ability to converse with the spirit world. Mentorship with these gifted individuals offers followers spiritual guidance and deep connections that endure beyond death. Guso champions both individualism and community values like love and respect. Extended families and guild-based clans form the backbone of the Shanghti society, and Soul Keepers are pivotal during life milestones. Guso values both science and myth, rejecting notions of fate. This adaptable belief system accommodates multiple denominations harmoniously.		The Izhaic religions revolve around the worship of a singular, potent deity. Adherents venerate this god with intense devotion, ensuring they follow the sacred laws from their holy scriptures to avert divine wrath. Commitment to this faith entails both peaceful and forceful conversion of others, as joining Izha promises eternal paradise. Those who refuse face a condemned afterlife. Rituals, spearheaded by esteemed priestesses in grand temples, are paramount, with animal sacrifices on special occasions symbolizing blessings and divine approval.
KIN		NASKEL
The Kin religion, centered around the goddess Kin Puxem, the "Mother of Dawn," is a monotheistic faith predominant around the Shangti Ocean. Originating from the Kamuran Archipelago, it spread through the Kamuran Empire and has been the state religion for over a thousand years. Kin Puxem is believed to have woven the universe, creating spirits that infuse all life and natural processes. These spirits work in harmony, evident in natural cycles and phenomena. A matrilineal clan system mirrors this cosmic structure, emphasizing the importance of women. Followers are taught to understand and cooperate with nature's spirits, valuing clan duty.		Naskel is a pantheistic faith in South Tharna and Northern Tzeraka, venerating nine spirits representing life and nature aspects. These spirits permeate daily life, guiding everything from farming to personal ethics. Naskel believes in the omnipresence of spirits in nature, promoting harmony between the physical and spiritual. Ancestral worship is pivotal; upon death, souls affiliate with a spirit reflecting their life's character. Ancestors' tombs are maintained, fostering intergenerational bonds and seeking protection. Vibrant festivals celebrate the spirits, using icons to represent each one. In essence, Naskel intertwines spirituality, nature, and community, deeply influencing its adherents' lives and culture.
ORKANAN		SADARISNISM
Orkanan, rooted in northern Anaria, especially Stoldavia, is a profound monotheistic belief centering on Vind, an omnipotent deity equated with the powerful force of Wind. Though Vind manifests in nature, its full grandeur remains elusive, giving Orkanan a unique animalistic flavor. To connect with Vind's essence, adherents harness creativity, mimicking divine creation through art, music, and even science. This quest for divinity, symbolized in their craft, serves as a bridge to Vind's power. Worship in Orkanan is an immersive experience. In vast temples, the faithful convene, engulfed in rhythmic worship marked by drums, instruments, and chants, inducing collective trances. Within this spiritual euphoria, they feel Vind's presence, celebrating an unparalleled unity with their divine Wind.		Sadarisnism, a luminous polytheistic faith, blossoms across southern and central Anaria and reaches the northeastern fringes of Tzeraka. Rooted in the cyclical perspective inspired by the Tyrreal oscillations, this faith venerates four principal deities symbolizing seasons and life's complexity. Countless lesser gods and spirits also hold significance, each echoing diverse life elements. At its core, Sadarisnism espouses a duality of the physical and ethereal realms, existing as intertwined reflections. The gods personify tangible and intangible aspects of the worldly domain. To strengthen ties with the divine, believers employ offerings, encompassing chants, sacrifices, prayers, and grand rituals, drawing the gods closer to the material world and soliciting their benevolence.
	SHUOCIANISM
	Shuocianism flourishes in the sunlit realms of western Davai, offering its adherents a pantheistic worldview wherein every aspect of nature and life harbors its own distinct spirit. Instead of venerating overarching deities, this belief system emphasizes the omnipresent divinity in all of creation, recognizing the myriad spirits that govern nature, living entities, and the universe's very fabric. The faith leans more towards cherishing the sanctity of the present moment and the divine essence it holds. Shuocian practices revolve around acknowledging and honoring spirits. These spirits, in Shuocianism, exist beyond the realm of human influence and remain impartial to worldly affairs, asking only for recognition and reverence in the grand mosaic of existence.

Akchacknism

• Main article: Akchacknism

Akchacknism, a captivating polytheistic religion, finds its divine pantheon residing in the ethereal realm of the celestial plane. From this realm, the deities manifest their presence as the shimmering stars and majestic planets that grace the night sky. Each deity is believed to govern over specific aspects of life, wielding influence over every human's existence.

The followers of Akchacknism hold deep reverence for their benevolent deities, viewing them as guardians and guides in the journey of life. They firmly believe that through rituals and devout practices, they can sway the actions of these celestial beings and seek their favour. By partaking in these sacred rituals, adherents seek to align their lives with the divine will, hoping to receive blessings and divine intervention.

One of the core tenets of Akchacknism lies in its profound belief in reincarnation. According to this belief, every human undergoes an endless cycle of birth and death, perpetually experiencing the ebb and flow of existence. However, the journey of rebirth is contingent upon the soul's purity and goodness. Souls deemed worthy ascend towards the light, embracing the potential for continued spiritual growth. Conversely, souls tainted by darkness are believed to descend into eternal obscurity.

Akchacknism encompasses a rich tapestry of rituals, beliefs, and spiritual practices that imbue the lives of its followers with profound meaning and purpose. Through their devotion and connection with the celestial deities, adherents find solace and guidance in their earthly sojourn, navigating the complexities of life and seeking enlightenment amidst the eternal dance of the stars.

Anur

• Main article: Anur

Anur, known as the Anuric religions, centers around the veneration of a singular and powerful deity named Aroth. This divine being is symbolized by the radiant sun, embodying both the forces of creation and destruction. The Anuric religions share some resemblances with the Izhaic faiths, yet their respective adherents maintain a clear distinction between their deities.

Despite their expansiveness, the followers of Anuric religions exhibit a remarkable tolerance towards other ways of life. They maintain amicable relations with followers of different belief systems and are open to progress and change. This inclusive outlook fosters a harmonious coexistence within diverse communities.

Central to their worship practices is the gathering beneath towering obelisks, where adherents pay homage to the sun and the sacred fire. Offerings are made with reverence, acknowledging the power and significance of these cosmic forces. The rituals are often presided over by male clerics who guide the congregation through sacred ceremonies.

The Anuric religions follow a sacred text, which, in some respects, shares similarities with the holy texts of the Izhaic faiths. This text serves as a guiding source of spiritual wisdom and provides moral principles for their followers to live by.

In essence, the Anuric religions encapsulate a belief system that reveres the sun as a divine entity, drawing inspiration from its dual nature as both a life-giving force and a bringer of transformative change.

Dlroch'veldr

• Main article: Dlroch'veldr

Dlroch'veldr, the profound and ancient monotheistic faith of the Wolgos, finds its roots in the enigmatic Dnkluwos island group. This venerable belief system is said to have emerged from the fusion of various shamanistic traditions that thrived on the islands nearly four millennia ago. At its heart lies a singular male deity known as Dlrocha, credited with the awe-inspiring act of creating the universe, along with the very essence of the Wolgos themselves.

Dlrocha, though revered as the creator, is also perceived as a god of potent retribution, and his favor must be diligently sought to ensure his benevolence shines upon his followers. The Wolgos deeply understand the need to appease their vengeful deity, engaging in devoted reverence and rituals to elicit his goodwill and blessings.

This faith exhibits a fascinating syncretic nature, harmoniously weaving together an array of spiritualistic and shamanistic practices. Among these are the veneration of nature spirits, the communion with haunted Wolgos spirits, the exploration of mystical arts like magic, and the enigmatic realm of witchcraft. Such a diverse tapestry of spiritual traditions adds depth and meaning to the profound belief in Dlrocha's omnipotent presence.

Exclusively practiced by the Wolgos, 'Dlroch'veldr' leaves no room for the rest of humanity within the realm of its god's grace. Instead, it classifies all others as abominations, firmly excluding them from the fold of divine favor. In lands subjugated by the Wolgos empire, a coerced submission to 'Dlroch'veldr' becomes a form of penitence, with non-Wolgos adherents compelled to practice it under the watchful eye of their Wolgos rulers.

Erecund

• Main article: Erecund

The religion of Erecund is a captivating tapestry of beliefs and practices centered around a diverse pantheon of gods, each personifying different aspects of the human mind, virtues, and the wonders of the natural world. Within this intricate belief system, followers find guidance, moral principles, and a profound connection to the divine.

At the heart of Erecund lies the concept of chivalry and a sacred code of honor. Practitioners embrace virtues such as bravery, loyalty, courtesy, and compassion. The chivalry code is paramount, as it not only pleases the gods but also fosters harmonious relationships within the community. Treating others with respect and kindness, protecting the innocent, and upholding justice are esteemed values within the faith.

Faith, hope, and prayer form an essential triad in the spiritual lives of Erecund adherents. Through unwavering faith in the gods, followers cultivate positivity and resilience, finding solace in the face of life's challenges. They seek divine guidance, strength, blessings, and express gratitude and devotion through heartfelt prayers.

A distinct symbol revered by Erecund believers is the three-pointed star, representing perfect balance and unity within a family. It symbolizes the roles of the father, mother, and child, reinforcing the significance of familial bonds. Moreover, the three points of the star represent the core virtues of the chivalry code – bravery, loyalty, and compassion, guiding followers to embody these virtues in their daily lives.

Central to the Erecund pantheon is the god of the soul, the creator and keeper of all souls. This deity imbues newborns with a soul and, upon death, collects the souls once more. The afterlife plays a crucial role in Erecund beliefs, and the god of the soul judges each individual based on their adherence to the chivalry code. Virtuous souls find their way to the next universe, a haven where the righteous are rewarded for their goodness and continue to grow spiritually.

The Erecund pantheon consists of twelve guiding gods, each representing specific aspects of the human mind and guiding souls towards self-improvement. The guidance offered by these gods empowers individuals to overcome challenges, develop virtues, and strive for continuous growth.

In the belief system of Erecund, the afterlife serves as a source of hope and purpose. The next universe, a paradise-like realm, welcomes souls who have lived virtuous lives and passed the judgment of the god of the soul. Here, the journey of spiritual growth and development continues as souls strive for further enlightenment and transcendence.

Guso

• Main article: Guso

At the heart of Guso lies ancestral worship and the belief in the interconnectedness of life and death. The clergy, known as Soul Keepers, possess The Gift, enabling them to communicate with spirits residing on the other side. Guso believers find spiritual guidance through mentorship by established Soul Keepers, building lasting bonds that transcend death.

Guso promotes individualism and group ethics, emphasizing love, respect, and self-development. The religion fosters a sense of belonging within extended families and guild-based clans, which are essential elements of Shanghti society. Ancestral worship is central, and Soul Keepers play a crucial role in various life events, from births to burials.

The religion rejects concepts of fate or divine intervention and embraces modern scientific theories while valuing mythological stories as alternative truths from history. Guso's dynamic nature allows for various denominations and sects to coexist peacefully and encourages interaction between different congregations.

Gathering places known as Gekijō serve as centers for worship and performance arts, blending theaters, music halls, and bars. Guso fosters curiosity and friendly competition among Soul Keepers and followers, promoting spiritual growth and development in a diverse and open religious landscape.

Izha

• Main article: Izha

Izha, or more commonly known as the Izhaic religions, forms a powerful grouping of monotheistic belief systems, where devout adherents pledge themselves to a formidable and all-powerful deity. This god, revered with both awe and trepidation, must be constantly pleased and appeased through sacred rituals and unwavering adherence to his divine laws, inscribed in the sacred texts. The followers deeply believe that failure to keep their god content will lead to his wrathful punishment.

This expansive faith encompasses a fervent mission, with its followers steadfastly commanded by doctrine to embrace new converts into the fold, both peacefully and through force if necessary, persuading them to embrace the tenets of Izha. In the Izhaic worldview, this act of embracing their faith is believed to pave the way for transcendence in life and after death, leading to a blissful paradise beyond. Conversely, those who reject Izhaic beliefs are deemed heathens and sinners, destined to face torment in a realm of suffering after death.

Rituals play a central role in the Izhaic religions, often conducted in grand temples by revered priestesses who serve as the intermediaries between mortals and the divine. On significant occasions, these rituals may involve the solemn act of animal sacrifice, a practice steeped in symbolism and intended to secure blessings and divine favor.

Kin

• Main article: Kin

The Kin is a fascinating monotheistic belief system centered around the worship of a single goddess, Kin Puxem, also known as the “Mother of Dawn.” It is predominantly followed in the regions surrounding the Shangti Ocean in Western Davai and Eastern Altaia, and the Sriaav people are its primary adherents. The faith originated in the Kamuran Archipelago and was spread to other lands and peoples within the influence of the Kamuran Empire, where it has served as the state religion for over a millennium.

At the heart of the Kin is a cosmological belief in Kin Puxem as the weaver of all creation. She brings order to a universe teeming with innumerable animate spirits that imbue everything, from natural processes to living beings, with a spiritual quality. Each created spirit is thought to have a purpose and intention to serve the greater whole. This spiritual presence is found in various aspects of life, such as the ebb and flow of tides, the smelting of metal, and the cycle of life, death, and decay.

The Kin aligns human society with the cosmic structure, promoting a matrilineal clan system as the most common family unit. This ensures that women play a central role in society. The belief system emphasizes understanding how to interact with other spirits in nature and aligning one's purpose to cooperate with them for collective wealth and wisdom. Duty to one's clan and covenant is highly emphasized.

The Empress of Kamura is the most prominent figurehead of the Kin faith, serving as the head of the Imperial Covenant of Kamura. The Empress holds power over a clergy composed of ordained priestesses and lay priests who fulfill various roles as part of the theocratic apparatus. There are also other covenants of Kin followers that exist separately from the Imperial branch, adhering to different rites and sometimes having their own high priestess or a more egalitarian structure.

Naskel

• Main article: Naskel

Naskel is a pantheistic religion practiced primarily in South Tharna and Northern Tzeraka. It encompasses a belief in nine revered spirits, each representing different aspects of life and nature. These spirits are deeply integrated into the daily lives of the Naskel people, guiding them in various facets of existence, from agricultural practices to personal conduct.

The religion's pantheistic nature acknowledges the presence of spirits in all things, emphasizing a harmonious coexistence between the earthly and spiritual realms. Naskel's followers find spiritual significance in the natural world, viewing it as a reflection of the divine, and they engage in rituals to honor and seek blessings from the spirits.

One of the core tenets of Naskel is ancestor worship. Upon death, the souls of the deceased become acolytes of one of the nine spirits based on their personality and actions in life. Ancestral veneration is a significant aspect of Naskel's religious practices, with people regularly visiting the tombs of their ancestors to celebrate, clean, and tend to their remains. This connection with the departed ancestors strengthens the bond between generations and provides guidance and protection from the spiritual realm.

Naskel's religious festivals are vibrant and joyous occasions, marked by colorful ceremonies and communal celebrations. They serve to reinforce the unity among the Naskel people and their reverence for the spirits. The religion's iconography includes sacred symbols representing each of the nine spirits, which are often adorned in places of worship and religious artifacts.

Overall, Naskel is a deeply spiritual and community-oriented religion, fostering a profound connection with nature, ancestors, and the divine spirits. It shapes the cultural identity of its followers, influencing various aspects of their lives, from their relationship with the natural world to their understanding of the afterlife.

Orkanan

• Main article: Orkanan

Orkanan, a compelling monotheistic faith, finds its stronghold in the northern reaches of Anaria, with its core centered in the revered lands of Stoldavia. While non-believers may associate it with the Stoldavic empires, Orkanan stands as a faith that resonates deeply with its devoted followers. At the heart of Orkanan lies the concept of an omnipotent deity known as Vind, often likened to the powerful force of Wind, manifesting itself through the wondrous facets of nature. However, mortals can only glimpse a fraction of this omnipotence, leading Orkanan to possess distinct animalistic qualities.

To draw nearer to Vind's divine essence, the followers of Orkanan engage in acts of creation, seeking to mimic a portion of their deity's omnipotence. From intricate sculptures to soul-stirring music, the creative arts become a sacred conduit for the faithful to connect with Vind. But the quest for divine proximity extends beyond artistic expression; even in the realms of science and manufacturing, Orkanans aspire to channel Vind's power, seeking enlightenment in their endeavors.

When the Orkanans come together in worship, they gather in grand temple complexes, forming large congregations immersed in spiritual communion. The worship ceremonies take on a mesmerizing rhythm, as synchronized movements to fast drum beats and a symphony of instrumental and vocal chants transport the congregation into a collective trance. In this heightened state of connection, the faithful feel intimately in touch with Vind, experiencing a profound sense of transcendence and unity with their omnipotent god.

Sadarisnism

• Main article: Sadarisnism

Sadarisnism, a vibrant polytheistic faith, weaves its influence across the sun-drenched landscapes of southern and central Anaria, extending its reach into the northeastern regions of Tzeraka. At the heart of this enchanting religion lies a profound cyclical worldview, drawing inspiration from the eternal rhythm of the Tyrreal oscillations.

The tapestry of Sadarisnism is adorned with reverence for four main deities, whose names may vary across different regions, but together they embody the essence of the seasons and the multifaceted aspects of nature and human existence. Beyond these prominent figures, numerous minor deities and spirits also hold sway in the hearts of the faithful, each representing distinct elements or phenomena in the grand tapestry of life.

Central to the Sadarene cosmology is the belief that the physical and spiritual realms exist as separate yet intimately interconnected dimensions, like reflections of each other. Within this profound interplay, the gods and spirits emerge as the ethereal manifestations of tangible things, actions, or abstract concepts in the physical world. As believers seek to forge a spiritual connection with these divine beings, offerings take center stage in religious practices. Through songs, sacrifices, prayer, religious edifices, and sacred rituals, they endeavor to draw the attention of the gods to the physical realm, seeking blessings and guidance in their endeavors.

Embodying a rich diversity, Sadarisnism nurtures a decentralized structure, marked by a kaleidoscope of denominations and regional temples, each fostering unique beliefs and levels of organization. Yet, despite the variances, a shared reverence for the natural world and the celestial pantheon binds the followers of Sadarisnism, fostering a sense of community and spiritual solidarity among its adherents.

Shuocianism

• Main article: Shuocianism

Shuocianism, a captivating tapestry of pantheistic beliefs, holds sway in the sun-kissed lands of western Davai, enchanting its followers with a profound sense of spiritual interconnectedness. At the core of this captivating faith lies the resolute conviction that every facet of the world is imbued with its own unique spirit. Within this rich pantheon of spirits, there exists an intrinsic sense of sacredness, where everything is honored and revered as a manifestation of divine presence.

In Shuocianism, the notion of higher beings beyond these inherent spirits finds little ground, as the belief system centers on the intrinsic divinity dwelling within all aspects of creation. Instead of focusing on grand deities, the followers of Shuocianism embrace the myriad spirits that govern and breathe life into different aspects of the world. These spirits are believed to guide the course of natural phenomena, animate living creatures, and shape the very essence of existence.

While resonating with some characteristics found in Akchacknism, the belief in reincarnation does not necessarily find a place within the tenets of Shuocianism. Rather than a cyclical cycle of rebirth, the focus lies on the sacredness of each present moment and the divine presence within it.

Unlike Akchacknism, where rituals can influence the actions of deities, Shuocian beliefs hold that spirits are beyond the influence of human rituals and remain untouched by secular affairs. Instead, the faithful find solace in simply acknowledging and honoring these spirits as a harmonious part of the interconnected web of life.