Difference between revisions of "Vorinism"
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== Beliefs == |
== Beliefs == |
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| − | In Vorin religion people believe in the [[Almighty]], the force of good and creator of mankind. He is typically represented by the divine prism |
+ | In Vorin religion, people believe in the [[Almighty]], the force of good and creator of mankind. He is typically represented by the divine prism with ten facets, each for one of the Heralds. Each Herald is an emissary of the Almighty, wielding potent magical powers, as well as the ability to respond to prayers and patronage over a specific part of human experiene. Vorinism typically places [[Jezrien]] and [[Kalak]] as the highest among the Heralds, with others beneath them. Occassionally, either of them are conflated with the [[Stormfather]], who in turn is commonly equated with the Almighty himself, although this depends on the particular Vorin country. |
=== Creation Myth === |
=== Creation Myth === |
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| − | The Vorin creation story places mankind's origins at the [[Tranquiline Halls]], a paradise from which they were banished by the [[Voidbringers]], the embodiment of evil. While humanity retreated to Roshar, the Voidbringers didn't stop there, coming again and again in times known as [[Desolation]]s, trying to force them off Roshar as well, and into Braize, the Damnation.{{book ref|sa1|45}}{{book ref|sa1|61}} |
+ | The Vorin creation story places mankind's origins at the [[Tranquiline Halls]], a paradise from which they were banished by the [[Voidbringers]], the embodiment of evil led by [[Odium]]. While humanity retreated to Roshar, the Voidbringers didn't stop there, coming again and again in times known as [[Desolation]]s, trying to force them off Roshar as well, and into Braize, the Damnation.{{book ref|sa1|45}}{{book ref|sa1|61}} |
| − | On Roshar, mankind, led by the Heralds and their [[Knights Radiant|chosen knights]], fought them off ninety nine times until finally the Aharietiam, the Last Desolation. |
+ | On Roshar, mankind, led by the Heralds and their [[Knights Radiant|chosen knights]], fought them off ninety nine times until finally the Aharietiam, the Last Desolation, arrived. Then, the Voidbringers were defeated and cast back into the Tranquiline Halls, while the Heralds followed to force them out of heaven as well.{{book ref|sa1|45}} The Knights Radiant were left behind, although they ultimately betrayed humankind in the Day of [[Recreance]]. In the modern Vorinism, their powers are considered trickery. |
=== Morality === |
=== Morality === |
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In the Alethi variety of Vorinism, warrior is considered the highest Calling, as it leads directly to the fight to reclaim the Tranquiline Halls. |
In the Alethi variety of Vorinism, warrior is considered the highest Calling, as it leads directly to the fight to reclaim the Tranquiline Halls. |
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| − | Symmetry is considered holy in Vorinism. Many names are close to symmetrical, as names that are actually symmetric are looked down on as 'too holy' and blasphemous. Many Rosharans are named similarly to the heralds - for example Shallan for [[ |
+ | Symmetry is considered holy in Vorinism. Many names are close to symmetrical, as names that are actually symmetric are looked down on as 'too holy' and blasphemous. Many Rosharans are named similarly to the heralds - for example Shallan for [[Shalash]] or Kaladin for [[Kalak]]. |
=== Temples === |
=== Temples === |
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| − | The traditional temples for Vorinism are circular and domed. Usually, the dome is exactly ten feet tall at its highest point. They are often filled with statues and pictures of the Heralds.{{book ref|sa1|18}} A major city is expected to have a separate temple for each Herald. Additionally, wealthy lighteye families will often have private chapels, and the ardentia maintains monasteries throughout the continent. |
+ | The traditional temples for Vorinism are circular and domed. Usually, the dome is exactly ten feet tall at its highest point. They are often filled with statues and pictures of the Heralds.{{book ref|sa1|18}} A major city is expected to have a separate temple for each Herald. Additionally, wealthy lighteye families will often have private chapels, and the ardentia maintains monasteries throughout the continent. Such monasteries, such as [[Jokasha Monastery|Jokasha]], are often seen as highly desirable postings, with many ardents working decades to get into one. |
=== Oathgates === |
=== Oathgates === |
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== Culture and tradition == |
== Culture and tradition == |
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| − | The Vorin religion is closely interwoven with the culture of the Vorin kingdoms, to the point where the same word is applied to both the faith and the culture. Its modern form appears to be based on the book ''[[Arts and Majesty]]'', outlining what is proper for men and women. Women are expected to completely cover their left hand (called [[Safehand]] in Vorin vernacular) since the age of roughly eleven or twelve, as it is generally considered obscene.{{book ref|sa1|3}}{{book ref|sa2|19}} They are, however, permitted to learn how to read and write, and expected to manage a household and business. More confrontational positions, such as politics and military, are considered masculine - however, men are forbidden (or at least discouraged) from learning the alphabet. Additionally, Vorinism differentiates between feminine and masculine foods (sweet and spicy). Those division between genders do not apply to ardents, who are considered genderless from cultural standpoint, and thus permitted to engage in both feminine and masculine activities. |
+ | The Vorin religion is closely interwoven with the culture of the Vorin kingdoms, to the point where the same word is applied to both the faith and the culture. Its modern form appears to be based on the book ''[[Arts and Majesty]]'', outlining what is proper for men and women. Women are expected to completely cover their left hand (called [[Safehand]] in Vorin vernacular) since the age of roughly eleven or twelve, as it is generally considered obscene.{{book ref|sa1|3}}{{book ref|sa2|19}} They are, however, permitted to learn how to read and write, and expected to manage a household and business. More confrontational positions, such as politics and military, are considered masculine - however, men are forbidden (or at least discouraged) from learning the alphabet. Additionally, Vorinism differentiates between feminine and masculine foods (sweet and spicy). Those division between genders do not apply to ardents, who are considered genderless from cultural standpoint, and thus permitted to engage in both feminine and masculine activities. By tradition, every person can learn a trade at a Vorin temple, including those of the opposite gender.{{cite}} |
| + | In addition, the Vorin religion justifies the cultural divide between the [[Lighteyes]] and [[Darkeyes]], with the former being considered closer to the [[Almighty]] and thus more holy, giving them power over the darkeyed masses. |
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| − | By tradition, every person can learn a trade at a Vorin temple, including those of the opposite gender.{{cite}} |
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=== Prayer === |
=== Prayer === |
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The priesthood of the Vorin religion are referred to as ardents. Ardents join devotaries (sects) based on their beliefs. Both males and females can become an ardent,{{book ref|sa1|i|8}} though many of the devotaries encourage women toward the female arts, rather than studies of theology.{{book ref|sa1|33}} |
The priesthood of the Vorin religion are referred to as ardents. Ardents join devotaries (sects) based on their beliefs. Both males and females can become an ardent,{{book ref|sa1|i|8}} though many of the devotaries encourage women toward the female arts, rather than studies of theology.{{book ref|sa1|33}} |
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| − | Following the Hierocracy, the ardents are not allowed to own any property of any kind, and |
+ | Following the Hierocracy, the ardents are not allowed to own any property of any kind, and are directly owned by lighteyed lords, similar to slaves. |
Though the heads of the Vorin church are nominally the leaders of Vorin countries, in practice the ultimate authority lies in the hands of the ardents known as the Curates, operating from the Holy Enclave in the city of [[Valath]]. They can be distinguished by blue robes and gemstone-covered staves, and have the authority to excommunicate members of the church - including the national leaders - for heresy. This right was given to them by Covenants of Theocracy, which are unspecified, but centuries old.{{book ref|sa3|100}} |
Though the heads of the Vorin church are nominally the leaders of Vorin countries, in practice the ultimate authority lies in the hands of the ardents known as the Curates, operating from the Holy Enclave in the city of [[Valath]]. They can be distinguished by blue robes and gemstone-covered staves, and have the authority to excommunicate members of the church - including the national leaders - for heresy. This right was given to them by Covenants of Theocracy, which are unspecified, but centuries old.{{book ref|sa3|100}} |
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| − | == Devotaries == |
+ | === Devotaries === |
| − | The Vorin devotaries are groups of ardents and lay members devoted to a particular facet of the religion. As such, they vary greatly in the interpretation of the faith, as well as their nature. Some devotaries are orders that permit their members to live their own lives, while others are monastic. Overall, their chief purpose is aid in nurturing the believers' Callings. |
+ | The Vorin devotaries are groups of ardents and lay members devoted to a particular facet of the religion. As such, they vary greatly in the interpretation of the faith, as well as their nature. Some devotaries are orders that permit their members to live their own lives, while others are monastic. Overall, their chief purpose is to aid in nurturing the believers' Callings. |
So far, the known devotaries are: |
So far, the known devotaries are: |
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The collective body of [[Ardent]]s from all of the separate devotaries is called the [[Ardentia]]. |
The collective body of [[Ardent]]s from all of the separate devotaries is called the [[Ardentia]]. |
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| − | == |
+ | === Hierocracy === |
| ⚫ | The Hierocracy was a time when the ardents attempted to conquer the world and control the people "for their own good." It is considered the failure of Vorinism.{{book ref|sa1|45}} Priests controlled what people learned, what religious paths they followed, and the overall doctrine, claiming that the common people could not understand theology. The higher-ranking members of the ardentia claimed to see visions and prophecy, which directly resulted in prophecy being seen as of [[Odium]] after their fall.{{book ref|sa1|18}} |
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| − | The [[Jokasha Monastery]] is a quiet Monastery, it is found "Nestled in the forests on the western slopes of the Horneater Peaks"{{book ref|sa3|i|2}}. It is one of the rare places on Roshar where Highstorms are not felt in force, in this case only in harsh rain. It is supposed to be a desirable location, with mention of Ardent's working half their lives just to get in. It is made perfectly to be a quiet place away from all the normal problems of human civilization, a place to quietly think. Or at least until the Everstorm came. |
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| − | |||
| − | == Hierocracy == |
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| ⚫ | The Hierocracy |
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{{Quote |
{{Quote |
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}} |
}} |
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| − | These priests were eventually cast down by the [[Sunmaker]] in the War of Loss |
+ | These priests were eventually cast down by the [[Sunmaker]] in the War of Loss. This directly resulted in the ardentia splitting into devotaries, and the individual ardents becoming lighteye slaves. |
==Notable Members== |
==Notable Members== |
||
| − | *Ellista- |
+ | * [[Ellista]] - scholar at the Jokasha Monastery, who studied the [[Dawnchant]] and discerned it was only a universal written language. |
| − | *Pai- |
+ | * [[Pai]] - new member of Queen [[Aesudan]]'s retinue. Denounced the queen for her waste and was executed as a result, sparking riots. |
| + | * [[Lhan]] - another member of the Queen's ardentia. Eventually subverted by [[Ashertmarn]]. |
||
| + | * [[Kadash]] - former soldier, who resigned after the events of [[Rathalas]] and became Dalinar's ardent. |
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| + | * [[Zahel]] - swordsmaster in Dalinar's employ. Taught [[Adolin Kholin|Adolin]] and [[Renarin Kholin]] in the use of Plate and Blade. |
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== Notes == |
== Notes == |
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Revision as of 14:27, 1 February 2019
| Vorinism | |
|---|---|
| Related to | Alethkar |
| World of Origin | Roshar |
Vorinism is the one of the primary religions of Roshar. It is most prevalent in Alethkar, Jah Keved, Kharbranth and Natanatan, known as Vorin kingdoms,[1] and becomes less common further west.
Beliefs
In Vorin religion, people believe in the Almighty, the force of good and creator of mankind. He is typically represented by the divine prism with ten facets, each for one of the Heralds. Each Herald is an emissary of the Almighty, wielding potent magical powers, as well as the ability to respond to prayers and patronage over a specific part of human experiene. Vorinism typically places Jezrien and Kalak as the highest among the Heralds, with others beneath them. Occassionally, either of them are conflated with the Stormfather, who in turn is commonly equated with the Almighty himself, although this depends on the particular Vorin country.
Creation Myth
The Vorin creation story places mankind's origins at the Tranquiline Halls, a paradise from which they were banished by the Voidbringers, the embodiment of evil led by Odium. While humanity retreated to Roshar, the Voidbringers didn't stop there, coming again and again in times known as Desolations, trying to force them off Roshar as well, and into Braize, the Damnation.[2][3]
On Roshar, mankind, led by the Heralds and their chosen knights, fought them off ninety nine times until finally the Aharietiam, the Last Desolation, arrived. Then, the Voidbringers were defeated and cast back into the Tranquiline Halls, while the Heralds followed to force them out of heaven as well.[2] The Knights Radiant were left behind, although they ultimately betrayed humankind in the Day of Recreance. In the modern Vorinism, their powers are considered trickery.
Morality
All Vorinists are expected to choose a Calling, their greatest talent, and practice it until death. Those who grow to be the very best at their Calling are chosen to join the Heralds in the fight to regain the Tranquiline Halls when they die. Their particular afterlife differs depending on the calling - those who were the very best at farming become farmers for the Heralds, those who are the greatest at battle are chosen to fight beside the Heralds, etc.[4][5][6][7][8] Those who do not achieve their greatest potential are stuck in a limbo-like eternity in a dreamless sleep, while those who do horrible things are cast into Damnation.
In the Alethi variety of Vorinism, warrior is considered the highest Calling, as it leads directly to the fight to reclaim the Tranquiline Halls.
Symmetry is considered holy in Vorinism. Many names are close to symmetrical, as names that are actually symmetric are looked down on as 'too holy' and blasphemous. Many Rosharans are named similarly to the heralds - for example Shallan for Shalash or Kaladin for Kalak.
Temples
The traditional temples for Vorinism are circular and domed. Usually, the dome is exactly ten feet tall at its highest point. They are often filled with statues and pictures of the Heralds.[7] A major city is expected to have a separate temple for each Herald. Additionally, wealthy lighteye families will often have private chapels, and the ardentia maintains monasteries throughout the continent. Such monasteries, such as Jokasha, are often seen as highly desirable postings, with many ardents working decades to get into one.
Oathgates
The original purpose of the Oathgates has been lost to time, though they are still considered sacred. It is believed that the eleven lamps stand for the ten Epoch Kingdoms, the eleventh for the Tranquiline Halls, and the huge keyhole to be "The need for ardents to ignore borders, and look only at the hearts of men".[9]
Culture and tradition
The Vorin religion is closely interwoven with the culture of the Vorin kingdoms, to the point where the same word is applied to both the faith and the culture. Its modern form appears to be based on the book Arts and Majesty, outlining what is proper for men and women. Women are expected to completely cover their left hand (called Safehand in Vorin vernacular) since the age of roughly eleven or twelve, as it is generally considered obscene.[4][10] They are, however, permitted to learn how to read and write, and expected to manage a household and business. More confrontational positions, such as politics and military, are considered masculine - however, men are forbidden (or at least discouraged) from learning the alphabet. Additionally, Vorinism differentiates between feminine and masculine foods (sweet and spicy). Those division between genders do not apply to ardents, who are considered genderless from cultural standpoint, and thus permitted to engage in both feminine and masculine activities. By tradition, every person can learn a trade at a Vorin temple, including those of the opposite gender.[citation needed]
In addition, the Vorin religion justifies the cultural divide between the Lighteyes and Darkeyes, with the former being considered closer to the Almighty and thus more holy, giving them power over the darkeyed masses.
Prayer
Vorin pray through glyphwards, prayers written in glyphs, typically on a strip of paper, calling on the Almighty and, sometimes, one or more of the Heralds. They are typically burned to carry the soul of the prayer to the Almighty.
In higher classes of Alethkar, much of the religious observation falls to the the priesthood, the Ardentia, rather than the lighteyes themselves. The ardents in the employ of a lighteye are supposed to perform the required rituals for their master, so that the lighteyes do not have to worry about the spiritual aspect of their lives.[9]
Priesthood
The priesthood of the Vorin religion are referred to as ardents. Ardents join devotaries (sects) based on their beliefs. Both males and females can become an ardent,[5] though many of the devotaries encourage women toward the female arts, rather than studies of theology.[11]
Following the Hierocracy, the ardents are not allowed to own any property of any kind, and are directly owned by lighteyed lords, similar to slaves.
Though the heads of the Vorin church are nominally the leaders of Vorin countries, in practice the ultimate authority lies in the hands of the ardents known as the Curates, operating from the Holy Enclave in the city of Valath. They can be distinguished by blue robes and gemstone-covered staves, and have the authority to excommunicate members of the church - including the national leaders - for heresy. This right was given to them by Covenants of Theocracy, which are unspecified, but centuries old.[12]
Devotaries
The Vorin devotaries are groups of ardents and lay members devoted to a particular facet of the religion. As such, they vary greatly in the interpretation of the faith, as well as their nature. Some devotaries are orders that permit their members to live their own lives, while others are monastic. Overall, their chief purpose is to aid in nurturing the believers' Callings.
So far, the known devotaries are:
- The Devotary of Purity[11], dedicated to wholesomeness and honesty. Members of this devotary are expected to keep their thoughts and actions 'pure'. A member's talents are expected to be dedicated to purity as well, such as an artist depicting only religious topics.
- The Devotary of Sincerity[13] is dedicated to seeking truth in all things. Members believe that there is always something to learn, and everything is subject to scrutiny, even their own religion. No question is rebuked. It is the smallest devotary.
- The Devotary of Insight[11] is not described. Many ardents from the Devotary of Insight are seen exchanging dulled lamps from the Palanaeum and putting infused ones in their place.
- The Devotary of Denial[14] seems to emphasize the denial of desires to the point of asceticism.
- The Order of Talenelat is Dalinar's devotary.[15] It is likely dedicated to the pursuit of martial excellence.
- The Devotary of the Mind[16] is a monastic devotary with its home at the Jokasha Monastery on the western slopes of the Horneater Peaks. It is devoted to historical and linguistic study, with the focus on literature.
The collective body of Ardents from all of the separate devotaries is called the Ardentia.
Hierocracy
The Hierocracy was a time when the ardents attempted to conquer the world and control the people "for their own good." It is considered the failure of Vorinism.[2] Priests controlled what people learned, what religious paths they followed, and the overall doctrine, claiming that the common people could not understand theology. The higher-ranking members of the ardentia claimed to see visions and prophecy, which directly resulted in prophecy being seen as of Odium after their fall.[7]
“They were taught to follow the priests. Not the Almighty or the Heralds, but the priests. ”
— Kadash [7]
These priests were eventually cast down by the Sunmaker in the War of Loss. This directly resulted in the ardentia splitting into devotaries, and the individual ardents becoming lighteye slaves.
Notable Members
- Ellista - scholar at the Jokasha Monastery, who studied the Dawnchant and discerned it was only a universal written language.
- Pai - new member of Queen Aesudan's retinue. Denounced the queen for her waste and was executed as a result, sparking riots.
- Lhan - another member of the Queen's ardentia. Eventually subverted by Ashertmarn.
- Kadash - former soldier, who resigned after the events of Rathalas and became Dalinar's ardent.
- Zahel - swordsmaster in Dalinar's employ. Taught Adolin and Renarin Kholin in the use of Plate and Blade.
Notes
- ↑ The Way of Kings chapter 8#
- ↑ a b c The Way of Kings chapter 45#
- ↑ The Way of Kings chapter 61#
- ↑ a b The Way of Kings chapter 3#
- ↑ a b The Way of Kings interlude I-8#
- ↑ The Way of Kings chapter 16#
- ↑ a b c d The Way of Kings chapter 18#
- ↑ The Way of Kings chapter 28#
- ↑ a b Words of Radiance interlude I-12#
- ↑ Words of Radiance chapter 19#
- ↑ a b c The Way of Kings chapter 33#
- ↑ Oathbringer chapter 100#
- ↑ The Way of Kings chapter 48#
- ↑ Words of Radiance interlude I-11#
- ↑ The Way of Kings chapter 54#
- ↑ Oathbringer interlude I-2#