The Synod of the Seven Signs.

It can be forgiven for many denizens of The Sunless Realms to have never even heard of the Synod of the seven signs., fewer still even are aware of its existence within the Aulrethie faith itself. While their presence might not be known amongst the general populace of Dral’azie society, the executive power the synod wields over all spiritual affairs is something felt throughout. Their primary purpose is to endure that the Temple functions and judge situations according to the principles of the temple's tenants and by the will of the Abyss mother and her pantheon. They are responsible for passing temple edicts and the general day-to-day running of much of the organisation's more trivial affairs. Acting as judge, jury and executioner on matters of urgency when important decisions have come to an impasse by the Arch-Priestess or Grand Master. It is passed to the Synod to render their judgement accordingly.
The synod comprises of a council of high ranking temple elders that have diligently served the seven gods for all their lifetime. These are some of the most pious, faithful, powerful and influential individuals in the Temple. Typically known for trying to push their own ideas about how temple doctrine should be observed in the Synod, some possessing far more conservative views than others. Many are high ranking officials drawn from the different branches of the temple, Priests, Seers and Templar alike. As such, rivalries and factions among the Synod are common, some tending to be persuaded or siding with the point of view of either of the temples hierarchy. When one is chosen to join the Synod, they officially become an elder. As such, they must relinquish their old position within the temple. Pledging to serve the seven signs. faithful until death or they are deemed incapable of serving the Synod faithfully or of sound mind any longer.

The Role of the Synod.

They are the enforcers of the overarching authority of all Dral'azie belief in The Tra'vanor Imperium, administering all spiritual and material affairs that relate to the Temple, but also that affect many aspects of Dral’azie lives. In times of internal turmoil that threaten the sanctity of the Temple, the Synod has the authority when all members are in agreement to raise the inquisition to become involved on their behalf as their own personal enforcers, whether in internal or external affairs.
Official declarations and amendments to the holy scripture and doctrine are typically ratified and reviewed by them before being sent to the Exalt for approval. Typically most Exalts have left this decision making to the Synod and most issues they are presented with are mundane and not worth the time of the head of the faith. This has caused issues in the past where Synods have made their own judgement on important decisions and not brought it before the Exalt thinking it is a minor issue not to trouble the holy mother with. The declaration of the Nemiisae heresy is just one example of that, where the Synod acted without the Exalts approval.

Type

Religious, Other

Parent Organization

The Temple of the Seven Signs.

Location

Draal'Grondi