Ephara, God of the Polis

Goddess Ephara (a.k.a. God of Polis)

In the ordered tapestry of the polis, Ephara's wisdom threads through every law, every edifice. To uphold the city is to walk in her divine steps, ensuring its prosperity echoes in the hallowed halls of enlightenment.

— Follower of Ephara

Ephara, the majestic deity of the Polis, is a divine overseer of civilization and the architect of urban progress. In the grand tapestry of the cosmos, she perceives herself as the foundational force behind the rise of cities, safeguarding them from external threats and nurturing their growth. Revered as the creator of the first code of law, which Meletis cherishes and other poleis emulate, Ephara's influence extends beyond mere governance. She envisions cities not just as fortifications but as thriving centers of knowledge, industry, and art.
In her colossal manifestation, Ephara appears as a towering animated statue adorned with a stone crown reminiscent of a column's capital. When she deigns to walk amidst her cities in a more human form, she takes on the guise of a serious, yet not unkind, woman dressed in the iconic hues of blue and white. A large urn rests on her shoulder, pouring forth the star-studded night sky of Nyx, its ethereal mist dissolving into the ground.

Ephara's Champions

Champions Alignment: Usually lawful, often neutral

Suggested Classes: Bard, Cleric, Monk, Paladin, Wizard

Suggested Cleric Domains: Knowledge, Light

Suggested Backgrounds: Acolyte, Athlete, Guild Artisan, Noble, Sage, Sailor, Soldier, Urchin

Most champions of Ephara believe cities represent the pinnacle of achievement and do what they can to uphold the law and keep society functioning. Some of the god’s most devout followers work as architects, artists, or philosophers, all striving to serve the public good.

Followers of Ephara

Followers of Ephara view cities as the pinnacle of human achievement and strive to maintain the delicate balance between law and progress. Devotees often serve in roles that contribute to the betterment of society, whether as architects shaping the cityscape, artists capturing its essence, or philosophers guiding its intellectual pursuits. Worship includes communal gatherings, city festivals, and the seeking of Ephara's guidance in matters of governance and civic planning. Temples dedicated to Ephara often feature grand architecture and serve as hubs for cultural and intellectual exchange.
Ephara's clergy, known for their wisdom and commitment to order, play vital roles as advisers to rulers, educators, and keepers of city archives. The faithful pray for divine inspiration to further the advancement of their polis, believing that in the flourishing of their city lies the highest form of devotion to Ephara.

Divine Symbols & Sigils

Ephara's holy symbol is a stylized representation of a column capital, embodying the architectural essence of the polis. The symbol often incorporates the colors blue and white, representing the deity's divine presence and connection to the starry night sky of Nyx. Devotees wear or carry this symbol as a sign of their allegiance to Ephara, and it is prominently displayed in temples and city halls dedicated to the goddess.

Tenets of Faith

Civic Order: Uphold the laws and structures of the polis, for in order lies the foundation of prosperity.

Intellectual Pursuit: Encourage and partake in scholarly endeavors, fostering a society that values knowledge and enlightenment.

Artistic Expression: Embrace and contribute to the arts, for creativity breathes life into the spirit of the city.

Guardianship: Protect the polis from external threats and internal discord, ensuring the safety and harmony of its inhabitants.

Holidays

City Founding Day: Celebrated annually on the anniversary of a city's establishment, this holiday honors Ephara's role as the divine architect of civilization. Citizens engage in communal festivities, recounting the city's history, and reaffirming their commitment to its growth and prosperity.
Luminalia: Occurring during the winter solstice, Luminalia is a festival of lights dedicated to Ephara's aspect as the bringer of enlightenment. Cities are adorned with radiant displays, and people gather for intellectual discussions, artistic performances, and the lighting of candles symbolizing the illumination of knowledge.

Religions

• Church of Ephara
• Theocratic Round Table

Pronouns

She/They

Presentation

Feminine

Hair

Cosmic entity

Skin Tone/Pigmentation

Statue