Root of Harmony

The Bane'ile acolytes in training to become tribal singers were easily identified by a colorful cloth sash worn about the waist. This ceremonial garment was known as the root of harmony.  

---

 

Description:

  The root of harmony encircled the torso typically extending from just above the navel to the top of the hips. There was a ring, carved from the roots of the titi tree, at both hips where the keys would be attached. These were fashioned from hollow reeds and hung down like fringes creating a very pleasing sound similar to wind chimes when they brushed up against each other.  

---

 

Construction:

  The cloth part of the root of harmony was woven specially for each individual acolyte by the most skilled weavers of their tribe using special fibers and dyes. The key rings were carefully carved from the roots of the titi tree and polished to perfection, while the keys themselves were crafted by the acolyte and added one at a time as the individual reached each level of mastery required to become a tribal singer.  

---

 

Significance:

  The root of harmony was meant to symbolize the acolyte's strong foundation as well as the harmonious balance they would attain along their spiritual journey to becoming a tribal singer. The special symbols woven into the sash would sing the song of the individual's life within the tribe up until the point of becoming an acolyte and each key was like a final exam crafted by the acolyte to show their knowledge of a subject they were required to master. Keys attached to the right side symbolized subjects related to the mind while those on the left symbolized subjects related to the heart. Together, they represented the balance of the masculine and feminine energies within the individual that would be achieved by the completion of the acolyte's training. Once the acolyte officially became a tribal singer, the root of harmony would be woven into the front of their ceremonial robe, the sash along the hem and the keys descending vertically from the shoulders to demonstrate that the remainder of their life's journey would be rooted in a strong spiritual foundation.