High Cult

The High Cult (Old Havlic: Velesìtsilio) is the official state religion of the Havlic Empire. It is a organised form of Havlic Polytheism. The Havlic faith was not centralised, different deities and practices were to be found across different regions but under the rule of Emperor Ixosonipsa the local traditions were consolidated into a single, organised religion. The practice of local traditions was thereby made illegal. The primary difference between the old Havlic faith and the High Cult besides centralisation is the idea of apotheosis, the idea that mortals could become gods. Emperor Ixosonipsa believed that his father Emperor Zendaruxos appeared before him as a god and told him to found the High Empire, from that moment on he and all subsequent Emperors would be granted passage to godhood so long as they continue in his footsteps. Later on, not only Emperors could achieve divine status; those who are pious enough and who live and die for the Empire could be given such an opportunity. This belief is one of the cornerstones of the Empire and its propaganda. Zendaruxeus is the patron god of the Empire, thus he is among the most important. He represents the Empire and its ideals, he is the protector of its citizens and the source of the Emperor's authority. The High Cult can be seen as a henotheistic faith with how much more emphasis is placed upon the worship of Zendaruxeus over all other gods, the purely henotheistic form of the religion is known as Zendarism.

Sects

Zendarism

A sect of the High Cult which focuses solely on the reverence of the god Zendaruxeus. Zendarists do not deny the existence of the other gods, they simply view Zendaruxeus as more powerful and/or more important. Adherents of Zendarism are called Zendarists; most Emperors were Zendarists.

Type

Religious, Organised Religion

Permeated Organizations