Sollunism is the principal religion of Odran, venerating the twin deities Eion, the god of the sun, and Zuvi, the goddess of the moon. This faith embodies the balance between light and dark, day and night, and the endless cycles that govern the world. Devotees of Sollunism recognize the divine harmony that Eion and Zuvi share, and their practices reflect a reverence for both the celestial order and the smaller spirits that guide the land.
Core Beliefs
At its heart, Sollunism is about balance. Followers believe that Eion and Zuvi’s union represents a cosmic equilibrium, where neither light nor darkness reigns absolutely but instead work together to maintain order. Their love story, marked by moments of separation and unity, is seen as a metaphor for the cycles of day and night, life and death, and the changing of the seasons. Sollunism teaches that every action and every aspect of life should strive to maintain this harmony.
Ceremonies and Rituals
The Festival of the Eclipse
Every hundred years, Sollunists gather for the Festival of the Eclipse, a momentous event celebrating the rare dance of Eion and Zuvi when the moon fully blocks the sun. This festival spans several days, where people gather in large cities to feast, exchange gifts, and share stories. While the eclipse brings a temporary period of darkness, it is seen as a time of unity and reflection, a reminder of the gods' love and their vow to only dance once in a century.
The Dawn and Dusk Prayers
Sollunism recognizes both the beginning and end of the day as sacred times. At dawn, worshippers greet the rising sun with prayers to Eion, asking for strength, clarity, and the courage to face the day ahead. At dusk, prayers are offered to Zuvi, seeking protection through the night, guidance in dreams, and comfort in the unknown. This daily rhythm ensures that both gods are honored, and their blessings are sought equally.
The Equinox Celebrations
The spring and autumn equinoxes are two of the most important days for Sollunists, marking the perfect balance between day and night. These days are dedicated to joint ceremonies for Eion and Zuvi, symbolizing the balance they bring to the world. Offerings of flowers, fruits, and handcrafted goods are made at shrines and temples, and communities hold dances, musical performances, and storytelling sessions that last from dawn until dusk.
Daily Worship and Prayers
Sollunists often weave their prayers into their daily routines, finding moments throughout the day to connect with both Eion and Zuvi:
Morning Ritual
: As the sun rises, worshippers might stand facing the east, raising their hands to the sky. They offer a short prayer to Eion: *“Eion, Lord of Dawn, grant me the strength to rise like the sun. Let my spirit be steadfast and my path be clear.”* This prayer is said as they prepare for their day's work, whether they are heading to the fields, a workshop, or simply beginning their chores.
Midday Pause
At noon, many Sollunists take a moment to pause and bask in the warmth of the sun. It is a time to reflect on the blessings received so far and to thank Eion for his guidance. Short affirmations like *“In your light, I find purpose”* are common.
Evening Reflection
As the sun sets, followers turn to the west and bow their heads, whispering a prayer to Zuvi: *“Zuvi, Mistress of the Night, guide my steps as the light fades. Grant me peace in the shadows and the wisdom to see through the dark.”* This ritual often helps Sollunists transition from the busyness of the day to the quiet of the evening.
Before Sleep
Many Sollunists offer one final prayer before sleep, calling upon both deities: *“Eion, Zuvi, eternal keepers of balance, let my dreams be light and my rest be deep. May I rise with the sun and find comfort under the moon.”* This symbolizes a request for protection, rest, and the promise of a new dawn.
Symbols and Sacred Spaces
Temples and shrines dedicated to both Eion and Zuvi often feature the Solunar Disc, a circular emblem that is half golden and half silver, representing the sun and moon in perfect harmony. This symbol can be found carved into temple doors, embroidered on prayer cloths, and worn as jewelry by worshippers.
Sacred spaces for Sollunism are designed to catch both the first rays of dawn and the last glimmers of dusk. These temples often have open rooftops or large, east and west-facing windows, allowing sunlight and moonlight to fill the space during prayers. Smaller altars to Deified Spirits are scattered throughout the temple grounds, where people can make individual offerings to the local spirits for personal blessings.
The Role of Deified Spirits in Sollunism
While Eion and Zuvi govern the grand, celestial domains, Sollunism acknowledges the presence of
Deified Spirits who watch over the smaller details of the world. Worshippers often make offerings to these spirits alongside their prayers to the gods, especially when they need specific blessings or are traveling through areas known to be under a spirit’s influence. The interaction between Sollunism and the Deified Spirits fosters a sense of connection between the cosmic and the earthly, ensuring that no part of the world is neglected.
Sollunism teaches that through the respect and acknowledgment of both the grand deities and the smaller spirits, people can find harmony in their lives, knowing that they are supported by a network of divine beings, both great and small.
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