Arorism (Ah-roar-ism)

"Nature as Deity: Exploring the Diverse Beliefs and Practices of Arorism, the Widespread Worship of Siriat and the Sacredness of the Natural World."

As an academic historian within the world of Arora, I am delighted to expand upon the summary of Arorism, a belief system that worships the sanctity of nature and the Siriat (Striders). Arorism is not an organised religion, and therefore its history and traditions vary from place to place. However, there are some quick-fire beliefs that are common across the different Arorist belief systems. Arorism emphasises the worship of the Siriat, more commonly known as Stiders, the natural guardians of the world. The Siriat are revered as sacred beings, and it is believed that they watch over the world, protecting it from harm. The Arorist belief system has a hostile attitude towards Ferrology and those who practise its art, are seen as a threat to the natural order of things.
Arorism takes a range of attitudes towards other races, which can range from friendly to distrustful. While the Arorists respect the sanctity of nature, they are ambivalent towards ancient structures. However, they view Rhysar, the natural creatures of the world, as creatures that should be treated kindly and no different than animals.
The Arorists believe that Ferro Stones belong to the Old Gods and should be left as religious offerings. The Arorist belief system holds the view that the world is a sacred place, and it is important to protect and preserve it for future generations.

Quick-fire beliefs

• Worship: The Siriat are the natural guardians of the world
• Attitude to Arcanist: Hostile
• Attitude to other races: Range from friendly to distrust.
• View of Ancient Structures: Ambivalent
• View of Rhysar: Natural creatures, should be treated kindly, no different than animals.
• View of Ferro Stones: Belongings of the Old Gods, should be left as religious offerings

Structure

Arorism is not an organized religion with a hierarchical structure, but instead is a loosely organized collection of beliefs and practices centred around the veneration of nature and the Siriat. Arorists often live as hermits or in small communities and have a decentralized structure with no central authority or religious leaders. The teachings of Arorism are often passed down orally from generation to generation or through nature-based rituals and practices. As such, there is no formal dogma or set of scriptures, and individual interpretation and understanding of the natural world are highly valued.
Arorists view themselves as being in harmony with nature and strive to live in a sustainable and respectful way. They often hold deep knowledge of their surrounding natural environments and use this knowledge to inform their daily lives and decision-making processes.

Culture

As Arorism is not an organized religion, there is no uniform culture associated with it. Instead, Arorist beliefs are heavily influenced by the local customs, traditions, and practices of the regions where they are practised. Generally, Arorists are deeply connected to nature and see it as a sacred entity that deserves respect and protection. They often live in rural areas, away from urban centres, and lead simple lives that are in harmony with the natural world. Arorists typically value self-sufficiency and often rely on their own skills and knowledge to survive. They may be skilled in farming, hunting, herbalism, and other trades that allow them to live off the land. They may also have a deep understanding of the natural world, including weather patterns, animal behaviours, and plant life.
In terms of art and culture, Arorism does not have any specific requirements or preferences. However, many Arorists may express their spiritual beliefs through art forms such as music, poetry, and dance. These may be used to celebrate the changing seasons, honour the Siriat, or reflect on the interconnectedness of all life. Arorists may also create works of art that depict the natural world or feature elements of nature such as animals, plants, or landscapes.

Public Agenda

Arorism does not have a unified public agenda or a central governing body that would dictate a common set of goals or values. Instead, Arorists tend to focus on their individual relationship with nature and their personal beliefs and practices. Arorists often advocate for conservation of the natural world and may be involved in environmental activism, but this is not a universal or formal part of Arorist teachings. Arorists may also participate in community events or festivals that celebrate the changing of the seasons or natural phenomena, but again, these events can vary greatly depending on the specific region or culture in which they are practiced. In some places, Arorists may come together to perform group rituals or ceremonies to honor the Siriat, while in other places, individual worship and personal reflection may be more common.
Overall, Arorism is a deeply personal and individualistic belief system that emphasizes a reverence for the natural world and the Siriat. While Arorists may share certain beliefs and practices, there is no formalized agenda or centralized authority guiding the religion as a whole.

Assets

Arorists typically do not accumulate material possessions or wealth. They value nature and the natural world, and often choose to live simple, self-sufficient lifestyles in harmony with the environment. Some Arorists may have access to natural resources such as forests or bodies of water that they consider sacred, but these are not seen as assets in the traditional sense. Instead, they are regarded as gifts from the Siriat to be respected and protected. Some Arorists may also possess knowledge of herbal medicine, which they may use to heal members of their communities.

History

As previously mentioned, Arorism is not an organized religion but rather a widespread belief system found in various forms across the world, with its precise history and traditions varying from place to place. Many scholars suggest that the core principles of Arorism are likely rooted in Urman societies, and it remains the primary religion amongst native Urman tribes to this day. However, some believe that Arorist belief systems have their origins in ancient pagan religions that revered the natural world and its various elements. Over time, these beliefs may have evolved and adapted to the changing cultures and societies in which they were practised, eventually coalescing around the broad distinction of 'Arosism'. Despite the lack of a centralized organization, Arorism has likely played a significant role in many historical events. Arorist beliefs may have influenced the actions of various groups and individuals, from hunters and gatherers who sought to live in harmony with nature, to defenders of natural lands against industrialization and urbanization. Arorism may have even played a role in larger historical movements, such as rebellions against tyrannical rulers, Urman uprisings against foreign occupation, or wars fought over control of natural resources. However, the decentralized nature of the belief system makes it difficult to track its exact role in these events.
Arorism is a reflection of the Erothian's profound connection to the natural world and a reminder of the significance of preserving it for future generations. The close association between Arorism and Urman society underscores the importance of recognizing the diverse cultural and religious practices of the people who call Erothi home.

Mythology & Lore

Arorism draws heavily from pagan myths and legends across different cultures and races, which revere the natural world and its various elements. In Arorist belief systems, the Siriat, or Striders, are the natural guardians of the world, and their worship is central to the religion. The Siriat are believed to have created the natural world, and their presence can be felt in the movement of the wind, the rustling of the leaves, and the songs of the birds. The mythology of Arorism also includes stories of ancient gods and heroes, who were revered for their connection to the natural world. These stories often involve great battles between forces of nature and those of civilization, where the former ultimately emerge victorious. The legends of the Siriat, in particular, tell of their battles against the wielders of Ferro Stones, powerful objects left behind by the Old Gods, which the Siriat seek to keep from being used for malevolent purposes.
Arorism also has its own creation myth, which tells of the Siriat creating the natural world and all living things. In this myth, the Siriat are said to have used the elements of the earth, air, fire, and water to fashion the world and imbue it with life.
Overall, the mythology and forgotten history that underpin the basis and teachings of Arorism celebrate the beauty and wonder of the natural world, while warning of the dangers of exploiting and destroying it for personal gain. The stories of ancient gods and heroes serve as a reminder of the power and majesty of nature, while the creation myth reflects the belief that all living things are interconnected and imbued with the spirit of the Siriat.

Divine Origins

As mentioned earlier, Arorism likely has its roots in various ancient pagan religions that revered the natural world and its various elements. Over time, these beliefs likely evolved and adapted to the changing cultures and societies in which they were practised. As trade and interaction across Erothi grew, many elements of these distinct pagan belief systems coalesced around the broad distinction of 'Arosism'. It is also believed that the core tenets of Arorism originate from Urman societies, which have traditionally been closely connected to the natural world and relied on it for survival. Urman tribes have long held the Siriat in high regard and developed a deep understanding of the natural world. Many of the beliefs and practices associated with Arorism, therefore, likely developed in the context of Urman society and were later adopted by other cultures and societies across Erothi.
As Arorism lacks a centralized organization, there is no clear origin story or founder associated with the religion. Instead, the beliefs and practices of Arorism have likely developed over centuries through the interactions and adaptations of various communities across Erothi.

Cosmological Views

Arorism does not have a standardized creation myth. As a decentralized belief system, its beliefs and traditions vary from place to place. However, many Arorists share a general view of the world as a sacred and interconnected ecosystem, with all living things possessing a unique spirit or essence. Some Arorists believe that the world was created by a pantheon of natural deities or spirits, each with their own domains and responsibilities. Others believe that the world simply emerged from chaos or the elements, with the natural order being maintained by the spirits of the land, sea, and sky.
In general, Arorism places great importance on the concept of balance and harmony within the natural world. Many Arorists believe that the actions of humans and other intelligent races can upset this balance, leading to natural disasters, famine, and disease. As such, they often emphasize the importance of respecting and living in harmony with the natural world, while minimizing the impact of human activity on the environment.

Tenets of Faith

Arorism does not have a set of centralized rules, laws or commandments. Instead, Arorists emphasize the worship of the Siriat and the natural world, as well as the appropriate way to interact with it. The fundamental belief of Arorism is that the natural world and its inhabitants should be treated with respect and reverence. Arorists believe that the Siriat are the natural guardians of the world, and it is their responsibility to live in harmony with them. Arorism also emphasizes the importance of balance in the world. The natural world is seen as a delicate balance of various forces, and upsetting that balance can have catastrophic consequences. Therefore, Arorists believe that they should strive to maintain this balance in all aspects of life.
In general, Arorism promotes a way of life that is simple and harmonious with nature. This includes practices such as sustainable hunting and agriculture, minimal use of resources, and respect for all living things. Arorists may also engage in rituals and ceremonies to honour the natural world and the Siriat, but these practices can vary widely depending on the local traditions and customs.

Ethics

As a decentralized religion, Arorism lacks a centralized authority to define extended rules and interpretations of its beliefs. Instead, the everyday lives and decisions of the faithful are guided by individual interpretations of the core tenets of the religion. That being said, some general principles may be considered pious acts, while others are considered sins. Pious acts may include respecting the natural world and its inhabitants, practicing sustainability and conservation, being mindful of one's impact on the environment, and participating in communal rituals and celebrations. Hunting, fishing, and foraging are also considered pious acts, as long as they are done in a respectful and sustainable manner.
On the other hand, sins may include disrespecting the natural world, wasting resources, engaging in excessive consumption or production, and harming the environment or its inhabitants. The exploitation of natural resources for commercial gain or excessive consumption is also viewed as a sin. Additionally, killing animals unnecessarily, causing unnecessary harm to plants or other living beings, and participating in acts that harm the environment or threaten the natural balance of ecosystems may be considered sins in some interpretations of Arorism.
Ultimately, the precise interpretation of what constitutes a pious act or sin is left to the individual believer's conscience, and may vary depending on local traditions and cultural practices.

Worship

Arorism is not an organized religion, so there are no set rituals or practices that are followed by all believers. However, there are some common themes and practices that can be observed among Arorists. Worship in Arorism is centered around the belief in the sanctity of nature and the Striders, the natural guardians of the world. Many Arorists practice their faith by spending time in nature, observing and respecting the natural world around them. Some may make offerings to the Striders or other natural elements, such as rocks or trees, as a sign of respect and gratitude.
Arorists may also observe certain rituals or ceremonies that are specific to their local traditions. These may include seasonal celebrations, honoring the spirits of ancestors or local deities, or performing acts of communal service or charity.
The everyday life of an Arorist is guided by a sense of respect and reverence for the natural world. This may manifest in small acts of conservation or sustainability, such as avoiding waste or reducing one's impact on the environment. Some Arorists may also choose to live off the land, hunting and gathering in a sustainable manner, or living in harmony with nature by farming or gardening in a way that is respectful to the earth.
Ultimately, the core of Arorist worship is the belief in the interconnectedness of all things, and the importance of living in balance and harmony with the natural world.

Priesthood

As Arorism is a decentralized religion without a centralized organization or hierarchy, there are no appointed or distinguished guides for the faithful. Instead, Arorists believe that everyone has the ability to connect with the natural world and the Siriat (Striders) on their own, without the need for intermediaries. As such, Arorists rely on personal experience, intuition, and a deep connection to nature to guide them in their beliefs and practices. In some regions, however, there may be respected elders or shamans who possess knowledge and experience in Arorist beliefs and practices. These individuals may be sought out by others for guidance and advice, but they are not considered to be official leaders or representatives of the religion. Instead, they serve as mentors and advisors, helping others to deepen their connection to nature and the Siriat.
It is worth noting that while Arorism does not have a formal priesthood or hierarchy, there may be some cultural variations in the role of leaders within different Arorist communities. In some cases, certain individuals may be recognized as spiritual leaders due to their knowledge, experience, or natural abilities. However, these leaders do not have any formal authority over others, and their role is primarily advisory in nature.

Granted Divine Powers

Arorism does not grant supernatural powers to its priests or faithful in the traditional sense. Instead, the religion focuses on the idea of living in harmony with nature and respecting the natural world. Arorists believe that by worshipping the Siriat (Striders), they can tap into the wisdom and power of nature itself. Priests in Arorism are not considered to have any special abilities or powers beyond their knowledge of the religion and their ability to guide others in their worship of the Siriat. They are seen as spiritual leaders and guides, rather than supernatural beings.
However, some Arorists do believe in the existence of powerful natural spirits or deities that can be invoked through prayer and ritual. These spirits are said to have the power to influence the natural world and protect those who show them proper respect and reverence. Some Arorists also believe in the power of magic and divination, which they see as natural abilities that can be enhanced through meditation and spiritual practice.
Overall, the focus of Arorism is on cultivating a deep connection with the natural world and using that connection to live a fulfilling and harmonious life. There are no supernatural powers or abilities that are granted to the faithful beyond the ability to appreciate and respect the natural world.

Political Influence & Intrigue

Due to the decentralized nature of Arorism, it does not have a significant impact on the political fabric of organizations that it has permeated. Arorists tend to focus on their connection with the natural world, and their beliefs often lead them to be more aligned with environmental and conservationist movements. However, because there is no centralized leadership, Arorism does not have an organized political agenda, and its influence on the political sphere tends to be indirect and diffuse.

Sects

Arorism, being a decentralized and loosely structured religion, has various sects and factions that have developed over time, each with its own interpretation of the core tenets of the faith. These sects and factions may have different beliefs about specific aspects of Arorism or place more emphasis on certain practices or rituals. One common faction within Arorism is the "Deepwoods Sect," which emphasizes a strong connection to the forests and natural world. Members of this sect often lead more isolated lives, living deep in the forests and subsisting on the land. They are known for their extensive knowledge of herbal remedies and natural medicines.
Another prominent faction is the "City Dweller's Guild," which has adapted Arorist beliefs to city life. Members of this faction emphasize sustainable living in urban environments and seek to promote environmental awareness within cities. They often organize community gardens and participate in urban farming initiatives.
The "Warrior's Clan" is a more militant faction of Arorism that emphasizes self-defense and protection of the natural world. Members of this faction may use force to protect forests or other natural areas from destruction and may even engage in acts of sabotage against industrial operations they see as harmful to the environment.
While these sects and factions may differ from the mainstream Arorist dogma in some ways, they are generally accepted and respected within the wider Arorist community. As long as their beliefs and practices do not go against the core tenets of Arorism, they are seen as valid interpretations of the faith.

Founding Date

Prehistoric

Type

Religious, Druidic Circle

Alternative Names

Siriatism, Naturism, Wildfaith, Striderism, Feralism, Wilderfaith, Primalism, Greenism

Demonym

Arorist