Taro Pantheon
The Taro Pantheon started as a human legend and became the world's most popular religion, focusing on a pantheon of deities with distinct personalities and domains of influence.
Taro Pantheism is a religion that traces its roots to a small legend among the human tribes of the eastern plains. Over the centuries, the legend grew and evolved as it spread across the world, eventually becoming the most widely practiced religion. The Taro Pantheon is composed of a diverse array of gods and goddesses, each associated with a different aspect of life, nature, or the universe. Followers of Taro Pantheism believe that these deities can be appeased through prayer, ritual offerings, and acts of devotion, and that they can provide blessings and protection to those who honor them. Despite its popularity, Taro Pantheism is not without its critics and controversies, and different sects and traditions within the religion often hold divergent beliefs and practices.
Beliefs
The Taro Pantheon is based on the belief in seven powerful deities, each with their own unique title and domain. These gods are Tarolas, known as The Guardian and The Keeper of Light, Pandera, known as The Bard and The Keeper of Wind, Varuko, known as The Hunter and The Keeper of Life, Jinni, known as The Lord and The Keeper of Order, Magnaram, known as The Mage and The Keeper of Chaos, and Barama, known as The Scholar and The Keeper of Wisdom. In addition to the seven main gods of the Taro Pantheon, there are two others who are no longer worshipped by the majority of believers. These two gods, once significant figures in the mythology, are now considered dead and are only revered by a few fringe sects. These sects refuse to accept the absolute demise of these gods and instead seek to revive them to their former status of divinity. Their practices are often viewed as controversial or even heretical by the mainstream followers of the Taro Pantheon..Song of Creation
The following is entitled 'The Song of Creation', and is sung to children to teach them the history of the world as according to the taro pantheon: In the beginning, there was only void and darkness, Until Tarolas appeared with a burst of divine lightness. He created Arora, the world we know today, And filled it with life, with love and with play. The gods soon followed, each with their own gifts, And the world flourished with many different rifts. Races of all kinds, with their own unique way, Lived in harmony, and worshipped each day. But Casmios grew jealous, and sought to take control, He gathered an army, and aimed to steal the whole. The great war raged on, with many battles fought, The fate of the world hung on every single thought. In the end, Tarolas sacrificed himself for the cause, And his body became a star, which gave life without pause. The gods lost their power, and left the material plain, And the world was left to mortals, with their strength and their pain. Humanity was given the gift of adaptability and might, And was tasked with destroying the demonic blight. The Ferro Stones were made from Haricar's earthly form, To keep the divine connection strong, and the world from harm. Countless moons have turned since that great war, And the world has seen great heroes, villains, and more. The Pantheon remains a guiding force, Teaching love and compassion, with each new discourse. And so the world continues to spin, With life and death, and everything within. The gods watch from above, as we make our way, Living each day, with the light of Tarolas' star as our stay.Quick-Fire Beliefs
- Worship: 7 Gods, individually or all together
- Attitude to Arcanist:Usually Hostile
- Attitude to other races: Usually Ambivalent
- View of Ancient Structures: Demonic Fortress’s of the Krulanis (Servants of Casmios), should be avoided and blocked.
- View of Rhysar: Leftover relics of the Creation War, should be avoided or placated with tribute/sacrifice.
- View of Ferro Stones: Pieces of Haricar, the dead god, should be treated as holy and revered as dangerous.
Structure
While there is no formal hierarchy or system of titles within the Taro Pantheon, some followers may hold particular roles or titles within their local communities or sects. For example, a shaman or priestess may be recognized as a spiritual leader within their community, or a warrior may be considered a champion of a particular deity. However, these roles and titles are generally not recognized on a pantheon-wide level.
In terms of the structure and hierarchy of titles within the pantheon, it is believed that each of the gods and goddesses holds a specific domain or aspect of life over which they have control. Tarolas is known as The Guardian and The Keeper of Light, while Pandera is The Bard and The Keeper of Wind, and so on.
While all of the gods within the pantheon are considered important, some are believed to hold more power and influence than others. For example, Tarolas is often seen as the head of the pantheon, with the other gods serving under him. Similarly, Jinni, as The Lord and The Keeper of Order, is seen as a powerful figure with significant authority.
In terms of the hierarchy of titles, there are certain honorifics and titles associated with the gods and goddesses, such as "The Keeper of Life" for Varuko and "The Keeper of Chaos" for Magnaram. However, there does not appear to be a clear-cut system of titles and ranks within the Taro Pantheon, with each god and goddess holding their own unique position and level of influence.
Culture
The culture of the Taropantheists emphasizes a deep connection to nature and the enjoyment of life's pleasures. They believe that the gods and goddesses of the Taro Pantheon are present in all aspects of the natural world and that by living in harmony with nature, they can honor and appease these deities. As a result, the Taropantheists place great value on activities such as hunting, fishing, and farming, as well as the arts, music, and storytelling.
While the Taropantheists do not prioritize formal education or scholarship, they do value wisdom and understanding, particularly as it pertains to the natural world and their place in it. They believe that through observation and experience, they can gain a deeper understanding of the gods and their teachings. As such, elders and those with experience are highly respected within the community and often serve as guides and mentors to younger generations. Overall, the Taropantheist culture is characterized by a deep reverence for the natural world, a focus on pleasure and enjoyment, and a belief in the importance of experience and wisdom.
Public Agenda
As a religious organization, the Taro Pantheon's public agenda is centered around promoting the worship and veneration of their gods and goddesses. This involves building temples and shrines, organizing festivals and ceremonies, and encouraging the faithful to perform acts of devotion such as prayer, meditation, and ritual offerings.
Beyond this primary objective, the Taro Pantheon also promotes values such as harmony with nature, respect for all living beings, and living in balance with the world around them. As such, the organization may be involved in environmental and conservation efforts, as well as promoting peaceful coexistence among different cultures and peoples.
Some factions within the Taro Pantheon may have more specific agendas, such as seeking to restore the worship of the two fallen gods Casmios and Haricar, or advocating for certain interpretations of the Taro myths and legends. However, these are generally not officially endorsed by the wider organization.
Overall, the Taro Pantheon's public agenda is primarily focused on promoting the worship of their gods and fostering a way of life that is in harmony with nature and the world around them.
Assets
As the Taro Pantheon has no central authority, its assets are spread out among its many local sects and churches, each with varying degrees of wealth and power. Some sects may have significant land holdings or large followings, while others may be smaller and less well-funded. The overall wealth and assets of the Pantheon as a whole, therefore, are difficult to quantify.
In terms of physical assets, individual sects and churches may own temples, shrines, or other religious structures. They may also possess valuable artifacts, such as ancient manuscripts or relics associated with the gods and goddesses of the Pantheon.
History
The Taro Pantheon's origins are shrouded in myth and legend. According to the ancient tales, the gods were born from the chaotic forces of the universe, and they shaped the world through their divine powers. The earliest humans believed that the gods were present in all aspects of nature, and they honored them through rituals and offerings.
As human civilization developed, so too did the Taro Pantheon. The gods were given names and distinct personalities, and temples and shrines were built in their honor. The early pantheon was centered around the seven main gods, who were believed to be the most powerful and influential.
Over time, the worship of the Taro Pantheon spread across the world, adapting to the different cultures and societies it encountered. The Taro Pantheon became the most widely practiced religion in the world, with millions of believers offering prayers and sacrifices to the gods.
Despite the long history of the Taro Pantheon, there are still mysteries and controversies surrounding the gods and their origins. Some scholars believe that the pantheon was influenced by other religions or was the product of cultural diffusion. However, for the faithful of the Taro Pantheon, the gods are real and powerful beings who continue to shape the world and influence their lives.
Mythology & Lore
In the beginning, the Divine Era saw the birth of the universe and its first two deities, Tarolas and Casmios. From the primordial energy that infused the cosmos, they emerged as the first two divine beings, their power unfathomable and their presence awe-inspiring. It was they who named the world of Arora, and imbued all of its inhabitants, both mortal and divine, with their own unique roles and responsibilities. Thus was formed the Taro Pantheon, a pantheon of gods each entrusted with the guardianship and maintenance of a specific aspect of creation.
Under the watchful eye of the gods, the universe flourished and evolved. Life emerged from the dust of creation, evolving and adapting over countless eons. The gods themselves were not stagnant, and their interactions with each other and with the world they had created gave rise to conflicts and alliances that would shape the course of history. Though their power was vast, it was not without limit, and even the gods were forced to adapt to the changing times.
Casmios, once a guide to the sentient races of Arora, turned against the divine plan of a harmonious and free creation, instead enslaving all mortal races. Haricar, Barama, and Magnaram, his closest allies, were complicit in this betrayal. But one day, Haricar's pity for the tortured races led him to betray Casmios, informing Tarolas of his evil plan. Upon hearing this, Tarolas gave Haricar the power to spread free will amongst the races, so they could choose to worship and work for whomever they pleased. Casmios was enraged by this treachery and declared war on Tarolas for control of the newly created mortal races.
As the war of the divines raged on, the sentient races of Arora were caught in the crossfire, forced to choose sides between the warring gods. The mortals suffered greatly under the rule of Casmios and his followers, who demanded absolute obedience and cruelly punished any who dared to resist. The loyalists to Tarolas, on the other hand, fought to protect the free will and independence of the mortals. The war was long and brutal, with each side unleashing unimaginable destruction upon the universe. Great cities were reduced to rubble, forests burned to ash, and oceans boiled away. The once-beautiful universe was now a desolate wasteland, with only the remnants of the great structures and monuments serving as a reminder of the past.
At the end of the war, Casmios was defeated and cast into the abyss, leaving Tarolas as the sole ruler of the universe. However, the cost of victory was steep, and the universe was left shattered and broken, struggling to rebuild itself from the ruins of the past. It is said that this war left the universe in almost total darkness, with the stars serving as mere remnants of a once-uniform light, scattered like debris across the vast expanse of the night sky.
In the throes of the final battle, Haricar, once a trusted ally of Casmios, met his end at the hands of Khinyuhr, a fearsome demon and servant of Magnaram. With an unnamed power of pure chaos, Khinyuhr struck down the noble Haricar, sending him into the embrace of death. Though his body lay motionless, his spirit remained, imbued with the power of Tarolas and the will to fight on. His sacrifice was not in vain, for his bravery and selflessness inspired the loyalists to redouble their efforts against the forces of Casmios. Despite the odds against them, they fought with a fierce determination, their spirits emboldened by the memory of Haricar's sacrifice.
In the end, Tarolas emerged victorious over Casmios, casting him down into the depths of Arora where he was bound and chained to the fiery core that held the world together. For his crimes against creation and the beings within it, Casmios was condemned to an eternity of suffering, his once-great power rendered impotent by his imprisonment. Yet even as he languished in his infernal prison, Casmios remained a symbol of the dangers of arrogance and ambition, a warning to all who would seek to wield power at the expense of others.
Despite emerging victorious in the war of the divines, Tarolas was devastated by the immense destruction that had been wrought upon the universe. He wept for all the divine and mortal lives lost, and in a selfless act, sacrificed himself by transforming into a star that would sustain life on Arora amidst the ruins of a shattered universe. This act had the unintended consequence of severely weakening the remaining gods, depriving them of much of their power and ability to remain in the material plane. As a result, they were forced to watch over and influence the world only indirectly, taking on the form of the six planets in the heavens.
Humanity had fought valiantly in the war, enduring great suffering and losses. As Tarolas prepared for his sacrifice, he bestowed upon them a gift - adaptability and a fierce spirit unmatched by any other race. With this gift, humanity was tasked with the divine purpose of spreading across the world and destroying the demonic fortresses of the Krulanis, the followers of Casmios who continued to pose a threat to the balance of the universe. Thus, humanity emerged as the dominant race on Arora, expanding their reach far and wide in their quest to fulfill their divine mission.
As the universe slowly began to heal, the populations of the various races began to grow and spread across the world. From humble tribes to bustling towns, and from small kingdoms to mighty empires, the mortals carved out their own destinies with the guidance of the gods. Tales of legendary heroes, fearsome villains, and monstrous creatures were passed down from generation to generation, becoming the foundation of Taro Pantheist history. And yet, despite all their struggles and triumphs, the mortals remained ever aware of their vulnerability in the face of the unknown forces that still lurked beyond the horizon. It was not until the arrival of writing to Erothi, 864 years ago, that they were finally able to record their own stories and preserve them for future generations.
The Taro Pantheon views the world through the lens of their rich history and mythology, and this has given them a unique perspective on the magical and supernatural beings that inhabit the world. The Ferro Stones, for instance, are seen as sacred relics of the great war, and are revered as such by the followers of the Taro Pantheon. These stones are imbued with the raw chaos of Magnaram's final weapon, and it is believed that they allow the mortal races to maintain some connection to their gods. As a result, access to the divine power contained within the Ferro Stones is strictly regulated by the priests of the Taro Pantheon, and only granted to those who have proven themselves worthy.
The magical creatures of the world, known as the Werhys, are also viewed through a religious lens by the followers of the Taro Pantheon. Hunting these creatures is seen as a sacred practice, and is encouraged for those who follow the faith. This is because the Werhys are seen as relics of the great war, and their capture and hunting is believed to bring honor and glory to the followers of the Taro Pantheon. However, not all magical creatures are treated in this manner. The Ferhys, for instance, are seen as holy servants of Tarolas himself, and their hunting is strictly forbidden.
The Daerhys and Siriat, on the other hand, are viewed as demons that are inherently evil but understandably powerful. These beings are feared and respected by the followers of the Taro Pantheon, and are usually encouraged to be left alone unless absolutely necessary. It is believed that these creatures are remnants of the great war, and their power is a testament to the awesome forces that once shaped the world. While they are not to be worshiped or praised, the Daerhys and Siriat are nonetheless viewed with a sense of awe and respect by those who follow the Taro Pantheon.
Overall, the Taro Pantheon's view of the world is shaped by their rich history and mythology. The Ferro Stones, Werhys, Daerhys, and Siriat are all seen through the lens of this mythology, and their treatment is carefully regulated by the followers of the faith. Through their reverence and respect for these beings, the followers of the Taro Pantheon hope to maintain a connection to their gods and to honor the legacy of the great war that shaped their world.
Divine Origins
Taro Pantheism traces its origins to an ancient legend among the human tribes of the eastern plains. According to this legend, a great spiritual force known as Taro created the world and all living beings. Taro was said to be the embodiment of the universe, and all things in the world were believed to be interconnected and interdependent. The legend also spoke of other deities who were associated with different aspects of life and nature, and who could be appeased through prayer and offerings.
Over time, this legend evolved and became the basis for a new religion. As the human tribes began to interact with other cultures and civilizations, they shared their beliefs and practices with others, and the religion of Taro Pantheism gradually spread across the world.
One reason for the religion's popularity was its inclusivity and adaptability. Unlike some other religions, which had strict dogmas and rituals, Taro Pantheism was open to interpretation and allowed for different sects and traditions to emerge. This flexibility allowed it to incorporate and assimilate elements of other cultures and belief systems, which further fueled its growth and popularity.
As Taro Pantheism spread, it also encountered criticism and controversy. Some religious leaders and scholars saw the religion as too fragmented and lacking in coherence, while others accused its followers of being too focused on material offerings and not enough on spiritual devotion. Despite these criticisms, however, Taro Pantheism continued to thrive and evolve, and today it is the most widely practiced religion in the world of Arora.
Tenets of Faith
The followers of Taro Pantheism have a set of basic principles that guide their beliefs and practices. These principles are not necessarily commandments, but rather guidelines for living a life that is in harmony with the universe and the divine forces that govern it.
Respect for Nature: Taro Pantheists believe that nature is divine and should be respected and protected. They believe that the natural world is a manifestation of the divine, and that all life is sacred. Therefore, they strive to live in harmony with nature and to avoid causing harm to living things.
Worship of the Taro Pantheon: The Taro Pantheon is a diverse array of gods and goddesses, each associated with a different aspect of life, nature, or the universe. Taro Pantheists believe that these deities can be appeased through prayer, ritual offerings, and acts of devotion, and that they can provide blessings and protection to those who honor them. Therefore, followers of Taro Pantheism regularly offer prayers and perform rituals to honor the Taro Pantheon.
Harmony with Others: Taro Pantheists believe that all living beings are connected and that harmony among individuals and communities is essential for a peaceful and prosperous society. Therefore, they strive to live in harmony with others, to be kind and compassionate, and to avoid causing harm or conflict.
Responsibility for One's Actions: Taro Pantheists believe that individuals are responsible for their actions and that every action has consequences. Therefore, they strive to act with integrity, to make ethical decisions, and to take responsibility for the impact of their actions on others and the world around them.
Respect for the Divine: Taro Pantheists believe that the divine is present in all things and that it should be respected and honored. Therefore, they strive to act with reverence and awe towards the divine, and to avoid actions that are disrespectful or blasphemous.
Finally, Taro Pantheism places a strong emphasis on the pursuit of happiness, which is seen as a natural and desirable goal for all beings. The religion teaches that happiness can be attained through a variety of means, including personal growth, positive relationships, and fulfilling work or creative pursuits. However, the pursuit of happiness is not seen as a self-centered or individualistic endeavor, but rather as a way to contribute to the well-being of the larger community and the world.
These principles are not exhaustive and may vary depending on the sect or tradition within Taro Pantheism. However, they provide a basic framework for understanding the values and beliefs of Taro Pantheists.
Ethics
The religion of Taro Pantheism places a great emphasis on freedom as an inherent part of human existence. According to the religion's teachings, Tarlos bestowed upon humanity the gift of free will, allowing individuals to make their own choices and live their lives as they see fit. This gift is seen as a sacred trust, and followers of Taro Pantheism believe that they have a responsibility to exercise their freedom in a way that promotes their own happiness and fulfillment, as well as the happiness and fulfillment of others around them. This emphasis on freedom is reflected in many of the religion's teachings and practices, which stress the importance of personal autonomy and individual choice. At the same time, however, Taro Pantheism also recognizes the importance of community and the ways in which individuals can work together to achieve common goals and support one another in their pursuit of happiness.
Acts that are considered virtuous in Taro Pantheism include spreading joy and happiness to those around them, engaging in activities that bring them pleasure and fulfillment, and forming close, meaningful relationships with others. Conversely, actions that are considered sinful include causing harm or suffering to others, engaging in activities that are harmful to oneself or others, and ignoring one's own needs for pleasure and happiness.
Worship
In Taro Pantheism, worship is a personal and individual practice, as well as a communal one. The everyday practices of the faithful involve personal reflection, meditation, and contemplation on the tenets of the religion. Followers are encouraged to take time each day to appreciate the world around them, find joy in their lives, and seek out new experiences.
In addition to personal practices, there are also communal rituals and traditions that are observed by the faithful. These may include festivals and ceremonies dedicated to specific deities or aspects of nature, such as the changing of the seasons or the harvest. Many of these rituals involve offerings of food, drink, or other symbolic objects, as well as prayer, music, and dance.
Priests and other religious leaders may lead these communal practices and serve as intermediaries between the faithful and the deities of the Taro Pantheon. They may also offer guidance and advice to individual followers, help with the interpretation of religious texts, and administer sacraments or rites of passage such as marriages and funerals.
Overall, worship in Taro Pantheism is focused on celebrating life and finding joy and fulfillment in everyday experiences, while also recognizing the role of the deities and the natural world in shaping our lives.
Priesthood
In Taro Pantheism, the faithful are guided by religious leaders known as "Luminaries". These Luminaries are individuals who have demonstrated a deep understanding of the religion's teachings, a strong connection with the Taro Pantheon, and a desire to serve the community.
The appointment of Luminaries varies depending on the sect and tradition within Taro Pantheism. In some cases, they are appointed by existing Luminaries or religious councils, while in others, they may be elected by the community or chosen through divination or other spiritual means.
Once appointed, Luminaries are distinguished from the rest of the flock through their knowledge, authority, and responsibility within the community. They are often responsible for leading religious ceremonies and rituals, interpreting the teachings of the Taro Pantheon, and providing spiritual guidance and counseling to individuals and families. They are also expected to live exemplary lives, demonstrating the virtues and values of Taro Pantheism through their words and actions.
Granted Divine Powers
In Taro Pantheism, priests and other religious figures are believed to have a special connection to the gods and goddesses of the Taro Pantheon. Through prayer, ritual offerings, and acts of devotion, they can channel the power of these deities and use it to perform various supernatural acts.
One common belief is that priests are able to heal the sick and injured using the power of the gods. By invoking the healing power of the appropriate deity, a skilled priest can often cure diseases and injuries that would otherwise be fatal.
In addition to healing, priests may also be able to perform various other miracles, such as summoning divine protection, invoking the elements, or even communicating with the gods directly. However, the exact extent of these powers can vary widely depending on the individual and their relationship with the gods.
It is important to note that not all members of the faith are believed to have access to supernatural powers. In most cases, only those who have been specifically trained and initiated as priests or other religious figures are believed to possess these abilities.
Political Influence & Intrigue
Taro Pantheism has a complex and varied relationship with politics and governance. In some societies, the religion is deeply intertwined with political power, and high priests or priestesses hold influential positions in government. In others, the religion may be more loosely associated with political authority, but still holds sway over the beliefs and actions of the populace.
One key way in which Taro Pantheism can affect politics is through its emphasis on community and social harmony. Many followers of the religion believe that it is the duty of the government and its leaders to promote the common good and ensure that all members of society are able to live happy and fulfilling lives. This can lead to calls for greater social welfare programs, such as public education, healthcare, and support for the poor and marginalized.
On the other hand, the emphasis on individual freedom and pursuit of pleasure can also lead to tension with government authority. Some adherents may view government regulations or restrictions as encroachments on their personal liberty, and may resist attempts to impose moral or ethical codes on their behavior.
In some cases, different sects or factions within the religion may have their own political agendas, which can lead to internal conflict or even violence. Overall, the relationship between Taro Pantheism and politics is complex and multifaceted, and varies depending on the specific cultural and historical context in which it is practiced.
Sects
United in faith, guided by the Pantheon.
Founding Date
Prehistoric
Type
Religious, Pantheon
Alternative Names
Polytheistic Tarorism, The Way of the Pantheon, The Taro Tradition
Demonym
Taropantheists
Related Ethnicities
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