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Yemar

Yemar (Makeyani: "child of the sea", plural: Yemari) is a cultural title bestowed on Makeyans born at sea. Believed to be deeply connected to The Deep and the Gods Below by the circumstances of their birth, Yemari are priests of the Makeyan Folk Religion.

Duties

According to Makeyan Folk beliefs, Yemari are born known to and knowing The Gods Below, while land-born Makeyans must be introduced to the Deep as young children, and learn to commune with the Gods as they grow up. They are expected to guide and conduct the many rituals associated with life in Makeya, from coming-of-age and funeral ceremonies, to daily prayers and the blessing of new ships. One of the most important duties of a Yemar is leading the Hymn for the Deep. They are expected to know the melodies common to each island, and sing whichever is most familiar to those praying. However, when Yemari sing together, the Hymn becomes an elaborate polyphonic song with descants and counterpoint. These musical lines are said to be taught to Yemari by the Gods themselves, and it is common for a younger Yemar to spontaneously sing a new line when they first join an elder group.

Type

Religious, Special

Current Holders