The Faridite Faith
This umbrella term covers the many forms and shapes of religious worship developed and practiced by the species of Kjai. The Faridite Faith has so far mostly been spread by force through the expansion of the Grand Kingdom of Farid'zai and acts as the official state religion of the realm ever since. The forceful expansion is one of the main reasons why the faith is rarely practiced by anyone else than Kjai, although even some groups of this species, like the Siraaj often refuse to practice this religion as well.
Interestingly, the Faridite Faith is only loosely organized, despite beeing the state religion of one of the most powerful realms. The most common and important practice of the faith is the worship of the two main gods of the pantheon, Asyn and Inyóni. Many ritualistic festivals and ceremonies are commenced in their name, coining the religious year of Farid‘zai and all followers outside of the realm.
Other gods are worshipped locally and considered of less importance. Some argue that these „local gods“ are in fact only different manifestations of the two main gods while others see a clear distinction. In practice, most local forms of worship are permitted as long as Asyn and Inyóni are adequately praised.
The expansion of the Faridite Faith is accompanied by the construction of a distinct temple complex in all major cities and towns as well as smaller buildings and shrines in villages. The two main gods are worshipped in a double temple with altars for both, while lesser, local gods are either worshipped in separate buildings or small shrines next to the main structure.
Other gods are worshipped locally and considered of less importance. Some argue that these „local gods“ are in fact only different manifestations of the two main gods while others see a clear distinction. In practice, most local forms of worship are permitted as long as Asyn and Inyóni are adequately praised.
The expansion of the Faridite Faith is accompanied by the construction of a distinct temple complex in all major cities and towns as well as smaller buildings and shrines in villages. The two main gods are worshipped in a double temple with altars for both, while lesser, local gods are either worshipped in separate buildings or small shrines next to the main structure.
Mythology & Lore
The key story for all faithful of this religion is the mythical „First Proving“. According to this story, the first Kjai to reach sapience were a young couple called Asyn and Ilyóni, who were granted this gift by an unknown entity simply reffered to as „The Bringer of Gifts“ (interpreted as manifestation of nature itself). In exchange for this gift, the couple was trialed by the entity with several tasks, seemingly impossible to achieve. Failing even a single one of them would have led to the loss of sapience, which has been the fate for many other creatures inhabiting the jungle of Tanari. Despite the odds, Asyn and Ilyóni succeeded, which did not only grant the whole species of Kjai sapience but also elevated the couple to the status of gods, bound to forever guide the race of Kjai to use their gift and lead the world into a brighter future.
Some versions of the myth, particulary younger ones, often leave out the gift-bearing entity and describe the reaching of sapience as an act purely achieved by Asyn and Ilyóni themselves. The story is subsequently changed that the couple recognizes the possibilities of their power, developing a responsibility and „holy duty“ to use it and lead their race out of their wild past and into an ordered and structured future.
Discussions about the „true“ version of the myth has led to disputes in the religious community of Farid‘zai over recent years.
Discussions about the „true“ version of the myth has led to disputes in the religious community of Farid‘zai over recent years.
Divine Origins
Cosmological Views
The Faridite Faith is strongly focused on a constant battle of order vs chaos. Order is considered the optimal form of existence while chaos, due to its uncontrollable and unpredictable nature, is generally seen as less desirable. Order guarantees an advantage in the constant struggle that is life, which is why it is considered to be the optimal state for any beeing. The distinction between order and chaos is often interpreted as the difference between animals and sapient creatures, a narrative that fits very well into the development of the Faridite Faith in the dangerous jungle of Tanari. Kjai see themselves as the chosen people, gifted with the strongest sence for order and chosen to rule all other species.
Tenets of Faith
- Honor the Gods
- Respect your Family
- Serve the Realm
Ethics
Faithful of the Faridite religion are expected to live a life according to the three principles of their faith. They have to submit themselves to the rigid system of Farid‘zai and serve the role that was given to them. It is not impossible to reach a higher position though. Acts of great valour and dedication, generally seen as the best „proof“ of ones faith, may increase the „worth“ of a follower for the greater good, in turn helping him to reach a higher position in Faridite society.
Type
Religious, Organised Religion
Permeated Organizations
Divines
Comments