Sunsworn Alshamism
Before the rise of the Kiteshi Empire around 3000 years ago, the Kitesh subcontinent in eastern Maitreya was embroiled in conflicts among small kingdoms. In contrast, the ancient realm of Nioba in the southwest thrived, known for its advanced civilization. Emerging from a rebellion against the magocracy of Nidea, the Niobans built marvels using ancient magic from their former masters. Governed by prophet-kings, Nioba flourished, guided by celestial insights, earning the name "Land of the Golden Sun."
Over the centuries, rumors spread of an ancient lich named Hephsut in the Sulfur Sea, a remnant of Nidea's fall. Hephsut’s forces sporadically attacked Nioba, preparing for expansion. A young warrior named Kitesh, receiving divine visions from the Sun God, ascended Mount Duniaji. Returning with a radiant spear, he introduced Sun Worship and united the warring kingdoms against the lich, forming the Kiteshi Empire. Kitesh created the Sun Ward, a group of one hundred warriors with empowered blades to protect Nioba.
Around 2500 years ago, Hephsut besieged Nioba, desecrating the Valley of the Prophet Kings to raise an undead army. A decade-long conflict ensued, nearly destroying Nioba until Kitesh defeated the lich at Kaf'nia Bay. The lich was imprisoned by the Sun Ward, who safeguarded his tomb for centuries. Kitesh’s spear was passed down to the Sun Ward’s leaders.
Approximately 460 years ago, during the War of the Undying, the lich was freed by the Sun Ward in a desperate attempt to use his knowledge against undead hordes. The lich betrayed and decimated the Sun Ward, raising them as his undead retinue. Over the next three decades, he waged war on Nioba, spreading the Scarab Scourge plague and compelling merchant princes to support his conquest. By the end of this conflict, Nioba had a new ruler, and the once noble Sun Spear lay shattered above the lich's throne, marking Nioba as the "Land of the Broken Sun."
The Holy Ashara
After the fall of Nioba, the surviving Sunwardens and faithful followers faced a profound crisis. The heartland of Alshamic worship lay in ruins, and the original teachings and texts were scattered and fragmented. Recognizing the urgent need to preserve the teachings of Kitesh and Alsham, they undertook a monumental task: the creation of a single, authoritative religious text that would encapsulate their faith and guide future generations. This effort resulted in the Holy Ashara (The Enlightenment of Kitesh), a tome that became the cornerstone of the Sunsworn faith. Yatamar the Lightbringer. Central to this endeavor was Yatamar the Lightbringer, one of the last surviving Sunwarden. Yatamar was a figure of immense spiritual authority and respect, seen by many as a living conduit of Alsham’s will. Having recieved and passed down tales of Kitesh's divine visions through generations, Yatamar’s survival was viewed as a sign of divine providence, marking him as a prophet in his own right. He took it upon himself to ensure that Kitesh’s legacy would endure, guiding the efforts to compile the Holy Ashara. Compilation of the Holy Ashara. Under Yatamar’s guidance, the teachings, life stories, and accomplishments of Kitesh were meticulously gathered from fragmented scrolls, oral traditions, and personal accounts. The process was painstaking, involving numerous priests and scholars who sought to preserve the accuracy and sanctity of the divine teachings. The resulting text, known as the Holy Ashara, was intended to encapsulate not only the divine teachings and heroic acts of Kitesh but also the principles and laws that they believed should guide the faithful.Evolution Through the Years
Early Amendments. In the decades following the initial compilation, the Holy Ashara underwent its first set of amendments to address immediate gaps and discrepancies. Priests and scholars worked together to standardize the text, ensuring consistency and clarity. This period saw the inclusion of detailed rituals and prayers that had been previously transmitted orally, helping to unify the practice of the faith across the surviving communities. The Compassionate Reformation. As the faith spread and grew, al-Zarel Alara the Compassionate introduced significant additions to the Holy Ashara around 380 years ago. Recognizing the social needs of the time, Alara emphasized acts of mercy, charity, and compassion. Her contributions included numerous passages encouraging the faithful to engage in charitable works, support the vulnerable, and embody the compassionate aspects of Alsham’s teachings. This era marked a shift towards a more socially conscious faith, broadening its appeal and strengthening its societal role. Philosophical Enlightenment. About 350 years ago, al-Zarel Talin the Wise introduced philosophical discourses into the Holy Ashara. Talin’s writings delved into the nature of evil, the importance of vigilance, and the moral responsibilities of the faithful. His contributions encouraged deeper introspection and ethical consideration, urging followers to seek wisdom and discernment in both spiritual and worldly matters. This period enriched the theological depth of the faith and promoted intellectual engagement among its adherents. Purity Crusades and Fundamental Reforms. The era of the Purity Crusades, led by al-Zarel Voren around 300 years ago, saw the introduction of stricter measures within the Holy Ashara. Voren’s amendments focused on enforcing orthodoxy and combating heresy, resulting in harsher punishments for deviations from the faith. Voren's period introduced a fundamentalist streak, emphasizing purity and adherence to strict doctrines. These reforms were controversial and led to internal conflicts, as the faith grappled with maintaining purity while addressing growing dissent. Rise of Sectarianism and Codification of Law. Building on the conservative momentum of the Purity Crusades, the next phase saw the formalization of what is permitted (also known as Divine or "Hel'lesh") and what is not permitted (also known as Heretical or "Hel'lekt"). This era introduced detailed dietary codes, strict dress codes, and severe penalties for heresy, including death. The faith became increasingly sectarian, with different interpretations and stricter enforcement of religious laws. Specific foods and drinks were categorized as Hel'lesh or Hel'lekt, with strict guidelines on preparation and consumption. Modesty standards were enforced rigorously, dictating specific attire for men and women. The introduction of capital punishment for "al-Hel'lekt" (heretics) marked the height of the faith’s conservative evolution.Modern Adaptations and Social Structures
In the past century, the Holy Ashara has continued to evolve, reflecting ongoing theological debates and societal changes. This period has also witnessed the entrenchment of conservative views on gender roles and social hierarchy. Gender Roles and Hierarchy. Women have increasingly been relegated to lesser roles within both society and the religious hierarchy. Traditional interpretations of the Holy Ashara have reinforced the belief that women’s primary duties are domestic, significantly limiting their participation in public and religious life. This has led to the establishment of strict gender roles and expectations, including stringent dress codes for women that emphasize modesty and submission. Naga as a Servant Class. The naga, a serpentine race within the Kiteshi Empire, have been increasingly viewed as a servant class. This social stratification is reinforced by religious interpretations that place naga in subservient roles. Naga are often employed in menial and servile positions, with limited rights and freedoms. Certain passages of the Holy Ashara have been interpreted to justify the naga’s lower status, thus reinforcing societal prejudices. Recent Reforms and Emancipation. Recently, significant reforms in religious law have led to the emancipation of the naga people within the Kiteshi Empire. This shift, driven by reformist factions within the faith, has triggered a steep divide between reformists and more conservative sects of Sunsworn Alshamism. The new laws have granted naga equal rights and freedoms, abolishing their status as a servant class. Reformists are actively working to integrate naga into all aspects of society, including religious, educational, and political spheres. Sectarian Tensions. These reforms have not been universally accepted, leading to heightened tensions within the Sunsworn community. Reformists advocate for a more inclusive and egalitarian interpretation of the Holy Ashara, supporting the emancipation of the naga and calling for further social reforms. Conversely, the more conservative sects oppose these changes, arguing that the traditional interpretations of the Holy Ashara should be maintained. They view the reforms as a threat to the faith’s purity and orthodoxy.Priesthood
The hierarchy within Sunsworn Alshamism is structured to maintain the purity and orthodoxy of the faith.High Council of Light
- Grand Luminar (al-Zarash). The highest spiritual leader of the Sunsworn faith. The al-Zarash oversees all religious matters, interprets divine will, and ensures the alignment of the faith with the teachings of the Holy Ashara. The al-Zarash is seen as the ultimate authority and a direct conduit of Alsham’s light.
- Dawn Elders (al-Zarel). A council of senior religious leaders who assist the al-Zarash in decision-making. al-Zarash oversee major religious regions, interpret theological disputes, and guide the broader direction of the faith. They are often former leaders of other ranks promoted for their devotion.
Regional and Local Leaders
- Dawn Bringers (al-Khalish). Regional governors responsible for large territories within the Kiteshi Empire. The al-Khalish oversee multiple cities and towns, ensuring that local practices align with the central doctrines. They report directly to the al-Zarel and play a key role in implementing the faith’s policies.
- Sun Wardens (al-Solari). Leaders of local temples and congregations. al-Solari conduct daily prayers, deliver sermons, and provide spiritual guidance to their communities. They are the most accessible religious figures for the general populace and play a crucial role in day-to-day religious life. These Sunwardens differ radically from the Sunwarden once mustered by the great Kitesh. These Sunwarden are raised entirely within the Sunsworn religion and taught to follow the strictest adherence to the Holy Ashara, purporting to follow in the footsteps of the original Sun Ward.
Specialized Roles
- Flameguard (al-Ishar). The military arm of the Sunsworn faith, responsible for defending the faith and leading crusades against heresy and external threats. al-Ishar are both skilled warriors and devout believers, trained in both combat and theology.
- Starcallers (al-Nathar). Mystics who seek a deeper, more personal connection with Alsham through meditation, prayer, and ascetic practices. The al-Nathar often live in secluded communities or wander as itinerant preachers, sharing their spiritual insights and performing miracles.
- Dawnseekers (al-Aurai). Novices and students in training to become full-fledged clerics. al-Aurai study under the guidance of more experienced religious figures, learning the doctrines, rituals, and responsibilities of the faith.
Sunsworn Alshamism in the Kiteshi Empire
The Kiteshi Empire, a vast and diverse realm, is home to numerous cultures, religions, and traditions. The Alshamic faith, particularly Sunsworn Alshamism, holds significant influence, but its impact varies widely across different regions, creating a complex relationship between the central religious authority and the empire's many kingdoms and communities. In the Nahat'na Rainforest to the north-west, the Kingdom of Panja has long resisted Sunsworn Alshamism, maintaining its devotion to an ancient pantheon. Panja’s laws and culture are rooted in indigenous beliefs, with limited Alshamic influence. Efforts by Alshamic clerics to establish a foothold have met with resistance, preserving Panja’s traditional practices. In contrast, certain heartlands within the empire are dominated by Sunsworn Alshamism, where religious law governs both society and politics. In these regions, the al-Zarash and al-Zarel hold absolute power, enforcing the Holy Ashara rigorously. Life is dictated by strict religious doctrine, with heretics (al-Hel'lekt) facing severe punishment, often public execution. In most other regions, Sunsworn influence coexists with local customs, creating a syncretic blend of practices. Here, clergy must negotiate with local leaders, resulting in a moderate approach that emphasizes the compassionate aspects of the Holy Ashara while respecting traditional beliefs.The Rise of Fundamentalism and Religious Conquest
In recent years, a fundamentalist faction, far more conservative than the wider sect, within Sunsworn Alshamism has gained power, advocating for a return to the "pure" teachings of the Holy Ashara and the expansion of Alshamic influence through conquest. What began as a territorial dispute with the southern Empire of the Celestial Dragon evolved into a holy war, driven by conservative clergy. The al-Ishar led the charge, offering conquered cities the choice of conversion or destruction. Temples of meditation dedicated to the sacred energies of Yin and Yang were replaced with those dedicated to Alsham, and religious refugees fled the advancing Sunsworn forces. This rise in fundamentalism has deepened internal divisions. Moderates within the Alshamic faith argue that aggressive expansionism contradicts the core teachings of compassion and justice. The resulting tension threatens to destabilize the empire from within, even as it wages war on external foes. Even the recent peace negotiated between the Kiteshi Empire and the Empire of the Celestial Dragon, intended to end the prolonged conflict, has been met with outrage by conservative clergy. They view the peace as a surrender, allowing heresy to go unchallenged, in direct violation of the First and Eleventh Laws of the Holy Ashara. This has led to significant unrest within the empire. Conservative clerics, accusing the leadership of abandoning sacred principles, have incited religious riots, particularly in regions where Sunsworn Alshamism is strongest. Temples have become centers of violent clashes, further deepening the divide within the empire. The ceasefire has also exacerbated divisions within the religious hierarchy. Some clerics advocate for peace, while others see it as a dangerous deviation from true faith. This growing rift threatens to fracture the unity of Sunsworn Alshamism, with some factions calling for the removal of leaders who supported the ceasefire.
Type
Religious, Organised Religion
Deities
Eleven Laws of the Holy Ashara
First Law of the True God
(Alsham Hel'lesh)"Alsham is the true god, and it is the duty of all those who have Sworn by the Sun to destroy idols of Hel'lekt (unpermitted heresy) wherever they may find them. Let no false god stand, for the light of Alsham must shine unchallenged, illuminating the path of righteousness for all who follow.
Second Law of the Radiant Sun
(Shanaft Hel'lesh)
"In the name of Alsham, the Shining One, it is decreed that those who have Sworn by the Sun shall turn their gaze to the sun at the break of dawn and the fall of dusk. Let them bow in reverence and utter their prayers, for in these moments, the light of Alsham blesses the devout and guides their spirits."
Third Law of Compassionate Acts
(Rimash Hel'lesh)
"By the will of Alsham, the merciful and compassionate, let every believer extend their hand to those Sworn by the Sun who are afflicted, the impoverished, and the ailing. Those who shun Alsham's light must be turned away, for they are lost."
Fourth Law of Vigilant Guardianship
(Hifasht Hel'lesh)
"In the light of Alsham, eternal guardian against the shadows, those who have Sworn by the Sun must remain ever watchful. Report the whispers of Hel'lekt (unpermitted heresy) and the acts of corruption to the al-Solari, for vigilance is the shield of the devout and the bane of the wicked."
Fifth Law of Sacred Modesty
(Iffasht Hel'lesh)
"In the name of Alsham, who sees all, let those who have Sworn by the Sun don garments of modesty, reflecting humility and reverence. Men and women shall dress in a manner that honors Hel'lesh (permitted by divinity), covering themselves to uphold the sanctity of their spirits."
Sixth Law of the Pure Table
(Taharr Hel'lesh)
"Alsham, the purifier of hearts and bodies, commands that only food and drink deemed Hel'lesh (permitted by divinity) shall touch the lips of those who have Sworn by the Sun. Avoid the Hel'lekt (unpermitted heresy), for in purity of consumption lies the path to spiritual and physical harmony."
Seventh Law of Unyielding Truth
(Haliqq Hel'lesh)
"In the name of Alsham, the beacon of truth, let no falsehood escape the lips of those who have Sworn by the Sun. Uphold honesty in all dealings among the devout, for truth is the cornerstone of trust and the foundation of justice. However, if you are among heretics (al-Hel'lekt), it is permissible to give them falsehoods, lest you be under their persecution."
Eighth Law of Sanctified Marriage
(Nakall Hel'lesh)"By Alsham’s decree, marriage is a sacred covenant that shall only be between those who have Sworn by the Sun. It is impermissible to marry a heretic (al-Hel'lekt). Let the faithful join in union with those who share their devotion, honoring the guidelines set forth in the Holy Ashara. The light of Alsham shall bless the man and his wives and guide their lineage with Hel'lesh (permitted by divinity). Those who break this sacred bond with infidelity or violence are heretics (al-Hel'lekt)."
Ninth Law of Devout Pilgrimage
(Hajjal Hel'lesh)
"In the name of Alsham, the eternal guide, let every able-bodied believer who has Sworn by the Sun undertake the journey to Mount Duniaji once in their lifetime. This pilgrimage shall purify the soul and strengthen the bond between the devout and the divine."
Tenth of Equitable Justice
(Adl Hel'lesh)
"By the wisdom of Alsham, the just and the fair, justice shall be administered without bias among those who have Sworn by the Sun. Let punishments and recompense reflect the nature of the transgression, as decreed in the Holy Ashara, maintaining order and righteousness for those true to Alsham."
Eleventh Law of Righteous Warfare
(Kashj Hel'lesh)
"In the light of Alsham, who guides the faithful, put to the spear those heretics (al-Hel'lekt) who would make war with Alsham in word or in action. Let no heretic (al-Hel'lekt) of the faith go unchallenged, for in defending the light, those who have Sworn by the Sun and died in service to Alsham shall find honor and divine favor. For a faithful (al-Hel'lesh) to become an apostate is Hel'lekt (unpermitted heresy), and so they too shall face the consequences as decreed."
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