The Taurose: bull-dance contest
One of the central traditions of Church of Bel Mithra is the Bull Dance Contest. This is not just a display of skill but a sacred ritual, a communion with the Auroch, a test of one's worthiness.
Rules and Structure:
- participants: anyone can participate
- Auroch: are carefully selected for size, temperament, and strength. (are volunteers)
- arena: all Temple of Bels, the arena is specially prepared, a circular arena with soft, yielding ground to cushion falls.
- the dance: participants engage in a choreographed dance with the Auroch, demonstrating agility, balance, and rhythm. It's a delicate balance of dominance and respect, showcasing harmony with the Auroch. (they all train together in this dance)
- the contest: while primarily a dance, elements of competitive spirit are introduced. Judges assess participants on skill, courage, and connection with the Auroch.
- prizes: the winner is often awarded a ceremonial bull horn, signifying their triumph and connection to the dive, some people get the award tattooed in a prominent position on their body.
History
Spiritual Significance
Beyond the physical prowess, this contest is a spiritual experience. Participants aim to achieve a state of taurose (bull-like) harmony, where humans and animals become one in spirit. The dance is seen as a prayer, meditation, a dialogue with the Auroch, and, by extension, Bel Mithra.
Training and Preparation
Rigorous training is essential for participants. This includes:
- physical conditioning: strength, agility, endurance, and flexibility are paramount.
- understanding Auroch behavior: participants must learn to read the Auroch's body language and anticipate its movements.
- spiritual preparation: meditation and ritual are used to connect with the divine and prepare the mind for the intense experience.
Participants
Any humanoid can participate, and of course the Auroch. The Auroch attacks, and the humanoids dance, jump, tumble, and run out of their way.
Other participants include:
- judges
- medics
- trainers
- other acrobats to entertain the crowd
- the crowd
Observance
This bull dance often happens on full moons, the most important ritual of the year is on the night of Midsummer. The midsummer contest can be a life-or-death event. Sometimes it is the bull, other times a humanoid.
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