Läänti Ascendism

The Läänti Wheel

Overview and History

Läänti Ascendism was established by Bodur the Elder in UT 652 during the northern Eannelk Occupation (707-598) of Draksineon. Drawing inspiration from its parent faith, the Congregation of the Ascended, Läänti Ascendism was established as a more practical, less mystical version of the religion, emphasizing the virtues of hard work and peasant morality. It is practiced in most nations of southern Arlok, most notably Chalornok and Ceweren.

Doctrine

While retaining the belief in The Aspects and adhering to the Congregation's calendar, Läänti Ascendism downplays the astral forces of Destiny. It promotes a doctrine of self-sufficiency and the idea that one's actions in life, rather than any preordained fate, determine the course of one's existence.

Language and Texts

Bodur the Elder ordered religious texts to be translated into Rikaad, the vernacular language of the Vylmöt people of Chalornok, his countrymen. This move democratized the faith and allowed it to be more accessible to common people.

Rituals and Practices

Ivala Vīdā: A daily morning prayer which asks for guidance in the day's work and honours the Aspects. It is often conducted privately in one's home or in the fields before work begins.
Raadigēthē: A monthly community gathering where stories of the Exemplars are shared, focusing on their virtues of hard work and humility.
Bodur's Feast: An annual feast held in honour of Bodur the Elder on the day of his death. It serves as a communal event that celebrates hard work and fellowship.
Varhālen: A coming of age ceremony where young adults demonstrate their skills and commitment to community service.

Relationship with the Congregation

Läänti Ascendism has a complicated relationship with the central Congregation faith. Although it was founded as a reaction against certain Congregation teachings, it has retained key elements of the original faith and is on excellent terms with the Tabernacle of the Wheel in the holy city of Enribellis. Some Congregation followers regard Läänti Ascendism as a simplified, less authentic version of their faith, while others appreciate its focus on practical morality and community service. Conversely, some Läänti adherents view southern Ascended as close cousins, while others see them as decadent and lost in empty ritual.

Social and Cultural Impact

Läänti Ascendism has had a significant impact on Vylmöt and Weyr societies of the north. It helped promote a strong work ethic and community solidarity, and its teachings have influenced local laws and social norms. The faith has also influenced art and literature, with many folk songs, tales, and proverbs embodying its values.

Current Status

The faith continues to be widely practiced in the northern regions, especially in Chalornok and Ceweren. While it has lost some followers to the central Congregation faith over the years, Läänti Ascendism remains a significant cultural and religious force in these regions. As one approaches the High North, the hold of the faith grows weaker and more people are seen to practice older traditions, such as constitute Farang Paganism.

Controversies and Criticisms

Critics of Läänti Ascendism often point to its de-emphasis on the astral forces of Destiny as a departure from core Congregation beliefs. Some also argue that the faith's focus on hard work can lead to an overemphasis on productivity at the expense of spiritual growth. Despite these criticisms, Läänti Ascendism remains a deeply ingrained part of many communities' cultural identity.

Instituted: UT 652