Etlaya (Eht-Lay-Ah)

Etlaya, the Goddess of Birth and Rebirth
Etlaya, also known as the Divine Matron and the Bringer of Life, holds a unique and vital role among the pantheon of deities. She is the benevolent and compassionate goddess responsible for the creation of humans and the gift of reproduction to all non-divine beings.
Creation of Humanity: In the early days, when all beings were crafted by the hands of the gods, Etlaya gazed upon the world and felt a deep and abiding love for the non-divine entities inhabiting it. Touched by their existence and moved by her innate nurturing nature, she decided to grant them the gift of life and reproduction. This marked the birth of humanity, as non-divine beings were now able to give life and bear children, breaking free from the divine assembly lines.
Mother of All: Etlaya is often revered as the Mother of All, for she is considered the progenitor of humanity and all living beings who owe their existence to her gift of fertility and birth. She is depicted as a maternal figure, radiating warmth and love, and cradling the world and all its creatures in her protective embrace.
Rebirth and Reincarnation: In some sects of her worship, Etlaya is also venerated as the goddess of rebirth and reincarnation. It is believed that, in death, the souls of the departed return to Etlaya's care. She guides them in their transition from one life to the next, ensuring a continuous cycle of existence. This belief in reincarnation gives solace to those who follow her, as they trust that death is not the end, but a new beginning.
Balance with Elios: Etlaya's relationship with her brother, Elios, the God of Death, is integral to the cosmic order. While she gives the gift of life and the potential for rebirth, Elios, in his role, introduces mortality to ensure the world's population remains balanced. Together, they maintain the harmony of existence, with life and death acting as complementary forces.
Worship and Rituals: Devotees of Etlaya often engage in acts of charity, midwifery, and nurturing as a way to honor the goddess. They celebrate the cycles of birth and life through rituals that involve blessing newborns, offering gratitude for fertility, and praying for the peaceful transition of souls in the afterlife.
Etlaya's benevolence, love, and the duality of her roles as both the giver of life and the guide of souls in the afterlife have earned her the unwavering devotion of her followers. Her influence resonates deeply in the lives and beliefs of mortals, comforting them in the face of life's trials and the inevitability of death.

"Bungus would like to pray to the child in question who has passed away. Passing on to the great Etlaya in the sky. He died young, but, Bungus know that they were a good child, they played games with friends, enjoyed life. Bungus pray his soul will go to Etlaya. Bungus sorry he couldn't save this lost child, but Bungus save more children in the future with Song. We look not back, but to a better future. Amen."

-Bungus Bungus

Divine Domains

Birth, Reproduction, Rebirth

Artifacts

The Cradle of Eternity is a divine artifact closely associated with Etlaya, the Goddess of Birth and Rebirth. This artifact is a beautifully crafted cradle, adorned with intricate carvings and inlaid with mother-of-pearl, symbolizing the nurturing and protective nature of the goddess. Legend has it that the cradle was gifted to the mortal realm by Etlaya herself as a symbol of her love and care for all living beings.
Powers and Properties:
Blessing of Fertility: The cradle possesses a unique blessing that aids in fertility. Couples who are struggling to conceive find hope and comfort by placing their hands upon the cradle.
Safe Passage in Reincarnation: It is believed that when a newborn rests in the Cradle of Eternity, the soul's transition from one life to the next is guided by Etlaya's loving embrace. Those who pass away while near the cradle are believed to experience a smoother and more peaceful journey in the afterlife.
Symbol of Protection: In times of crisis or conflict, communities bring the cradle into their midst as a symbol of hope and protection. It is said to ward off negative forces and bring about harmony and unity among people.
Restoration of Life: In rare instances, when an infant is born in critical condition or when a life hangs in the balance, the Cradle of Eternity is believed to have the power to heal and rejuvenate, granting the gift of life once more.
The Cradle of Eternity is a cherished relic, often found in temples dedicated to Etlaya. It is a source of inspiration, comfort, and hope for those who celebrate the goddess's gift of life and the promise of rebirth.

Tenets of Faith

Celebrate the Miracle of Life: Honor the sacred gift of life, for it is through Etlaya's love that mortals were granted the ability to reproduce and thrive. Embrace the joy of birth, and let it be a reminder of the beauty and wonder of existence.
Embrace the Cycle of Renewal: Recognize that life is a continuous cycle of birth, growth, and transformation. Just as death is a natural part of life, it leads to rebirth and renewal. Embrace change, and understand that every ending is also a new beginning.
Show Compassion and Nurture: Follow Etlaya's example of compassion and care. Support those who are expecting and new parents, for they carry the gift of life within them. Nurture the young and provide love, guidance, and protection to ensure a bright future for the generations to come.

Holidays

Festival of Life's Grace
The Festival of Life's Grace is a joyous celebration held in honor of the goddess Etlaya, the Divine Matron of Birth and Rebirth. This grand festival takes place annually on the 15th of April in the Gregorian calendar, a time when nature awakens and blooms after the slumber of winter. It's a day of exuberant festivities and profound reverence for the goddess's gift of life.
Key Traditions and Activities:
Blessing of the Newborns: In a heartwarming ceremony, infants born during the past year are brought to the temples dedicated to Etlaya. Here, the clergy offers blessings for the infants' well-being and a prosperous life.
Fertility Rites: People across the land participate in various fertility rites, invoking Etlaya's favor for those seeking to expand their families. These rituals often include planting seeds or symbolic acts representing growth and abundance.
Feasting and Merriment: The Festival of Life's Grace is marked by feasts, music, dancing, and vibrant parades. Communities come together to celebrate the beauty of life and the interconnectedness of all living beings.
Reaffirming Bonds: Families use this occasion to strengthen their bonds. Marriages, renewals of vows, and other ceremonies celebrating love and companionship are common during the festival.
Acts of Charity: The holiday underscores the importance of charitable acts. Many devotees participate in acts of kindness, such as donating to orphanages, supporting expectant mothers in need, or assisting the elderly.

Divine Classification

Goddess

Religions

• Church of the Thirteen Divines

Church/Cult

Church of the Thirteen Divines