al-Qor
Over seven centuries ago, an itinerant human preacher-prophet named al-Qor (which isn't really a name - it means "of the people") taught in the coastal desert regions of southern Corvalis. He taught that the Gods were far too demanding and that the intelligent species properly owed their allegiance and veneration to those among them who humbly served others. He taught that all races were equal, all people were equal, and that service to others was the highest form of holiness.
His teaching was a direct threat to the various cults of the different Gods. After a while, the priesthood of one of the Gods, Uvarsh, began challenging al-Qor whenever he taught in public. His preaching and logic were superior to that of the Uvarshan priests, however, and al-Qor only gained more followers. At length, the Uvarshans, with aid from political and religious allies, were able to convince the Itarosan governor that Alcor's teachings were threatening the peace of the province. After a sham trial, Alcor was sentenced to death. He had gained enough veneration from his disciples and followers, though, that during his attempted execution in the city of Hashelayuv, he ascended, and became a god, himself.
Divine Domains
Knowlege, Life, Light, Peace
Holy Books & Codes
- The Book of Alcor, a volume outlining the stories of al-Qor's life and ministry. There are three source manuscripts of this book, each with very minor differences, and each dating to the 2nd century AY of the Alcorite calendar.
- The Discorses of al-Qor and the 22 Scribes of Uvarsh, a series of debates between al-Qor and the Uvarshans. There are 16 debates, in total, each named for the chief Uvarshan scribe who argues with al-Qor. There are hundred of versions of each of these discourses. The Eastern Church recognizes one distinct set of them as authentic canon, while the Western church accepts a different set, which ignores al-Qor's inclusion of all races, as well as his most vociferous denunciations of violence. Other versions are generally considered apocryphal by all branches of Alcorism. Interestingly, the Qemishite Church does not recognize the authority of any of the Discourses.
- The Odyssey of al-Qor's Spirit, a mystical/gnostic text only recognized by the Qemishite Church as authoritative. In fact, both the Eastern and Western churches have denounced it as heretical.
Divine Symbols & Sigils
Various iterations of the Itaran letter "A".
Tenets of Faith
- All are equal
- All should have equal standing in society
- Service to others is the highest form of holiness
- Violence is blasphemy
- Failure to serve others is violence
Holidays
Ascension Day - commemorating the execution and ascension of Alcor. Generally celebrated on the 4th day before the Spring Equinox. Qemishites celebrate it on the day of the last full moon before the Spring Equinox.
The Coming - commemorating the birth of Alcor's human form. Celebrated on the 1st Day of Alcorsrise in the Alcorite Calendar. Not celebrated by the Qemishites.
Divine Goals & Aspirations
Conversion of all sentient humanoids to the faith, so that all may serve one another, rather than serving petty gods with mercurial whims and motivations.
Divine Classification
God
Religions
Children
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