Oghma, the Binder of What is Known

Basic Information

• Name: Oghma (pronounced "OGG-mah")
• Domains: Knowledge, Inspiration, Trickery
• Alignment: Neutral Good
• Symbol: A blank scroll

Oghma is the god of knowledge, wisdom, and learning in the Forgotten Realms. He embodies the pursuit of truth, the spread of ideas, and the preservation of history. As a Neutral Good deity, Oghma values the free exchange of knowledge for the betterment of all.

History and Mythology

Oghma is one of the oldest deities in the Faerûnian pantheon, believed to have been present since the dawn of creation. He is credited with inventing writing and spreading knowledge across the world, guiding mortals toward enlightenment.

Key Myths

• The Gift of Writing: Oghma is said to have taught the first mortals how to record their thoughts, giving them the tools to preserve history and share wisdom.
• The Binding of Knowledge: Oghma’s title, "Binder of What is Known," reflects his role in organizing and safeguarding the world’s knowledge, ensuring it is not lost to time or ignorance.
• The Time of Troubles: During this period, Oghma’s avatar walked the Sword Coast, aiding scholars and scribes in preserving ancient texts and uncovering hidden truths.

Relationships

Oghma is allied with deities of learning and creativity, such as Deneir (god of writing) and Milil (god of poetry and song). He opposes gods of ignorance and destruction, like Cyric (god of lies) and Talos (god of storms).

Worshipers and Church Structure

Oghma’s followers are primarily scholars, sages, scribes, and those who value knowledge. His church is highly organized, reflecting the structured nature of learning and record-keeping.

• Clergy: Priests of Oghma, known as Loremasters or Seekers, are often skilled in research, history, and magic. They maintain libraries and advise rulers.
• Hierarchy:
• High Loremaster: The supreme leader, overseeing the church’s vast archives.
• Regional Archivists: Leaders who manage temples and libraries in specific areas.
• Scribes and Scholars: Local clergy who teach, record history, and protect knowledge.
• Worship Practices:
• Rituals involve the copying of texts, sharing of knowledge, and debates on philosophy.
• The Festival of the Quill celebrates the written word with public readings and lectures.

Divine Realms and Sacred Locations

• Divine Realm: The House of Knowledge, located in the plane of Concordant Opposition, is Oghma’s domain—a vast library containing all the multiverse’s knowledge.
• Sacred Locations:
• The Font of Knowledge: A grand temple in Waterdeep, serving as a center for learning and worship.
• Candlekeep: A fortress-library on the Sword Coast, renowned for its vast collection of tomes and scrolls.
• The Athenaeum: A hidden temple-archive in the High Forest, where ancient elven lore is preserved.

Gameplay Mechanics

Oghma’s influence extends into gameplay, particularly for characters tied to knowledge and learning:

• Cleric Domains: Knowledge, Arcana
• Favored Weapon: Quarterstaff or dagger
• Divine Boons: Clerics of Oghma gain abilities like Enhanced Memory (perfect recall of texts) or Divine Insight (bonuses to Intelligence-based checks).
• Artifacts: Legendary items such as the Tome of Clear Thought or Oghma’s Quill are tied to his divine power.

Campaign Hooks

• Lost Knowledge: Adventurers might seek out forgotten libraries or ancient texts to uncover hidden truths.
• Protection of Lore: Players could defend a temple-archive from raiders or thieves.
• Scholarly Quests: Followers of Oghma might be tasked with advising rulers or solving mysteries through research.

Summary

Oghma is the embodiment of knowledge and wisdom in the Forgotten Realms, a god who values learning and the preservation of history. On the Sword Coast, his influence is felt in every library, school, and scholar’s study, from the Font of Knowledge in Waterdeep to the vast archives of Candlekeep. For players and Dungeon Masters, Oghma offers rich opportunities to explore themes of discovery, truth, and the power of knowledge.