Sun Pledges
Old Acathian Pledges to the Dawn Sun
Sun Pledges are a set of traditional Acathian practices involving the making of decisions, affirmations, or vows at sunrise. Though the customs are largely seen as old-fashioned in the modern, Namorian-dominated era, they still endure in certain segments of society, particularly among those who identify with their Acathian heritage. The recent expansion of paper use, writing, and notaries under Namorian influence has made these dawn-time vows seem antiquated and impractical, further contributing to their decline.
History
The practice of Sun Pledges dates back to the ancient Acathian era, where significant commitments were solemnized at sunrise, symbolizing the dawn of a new phase or commitment. This belief in the power of sunrise to imbue decisions with strength and sincerity was deeply ingrained in the Acathian culture. Over the centuries, the practices survived, though they have been significantly reduced in prevalence due to the influence of the Namorians and their practical, efficiency-driven society.
Execution
Sun Pledges encompasses several types of commitments, all traditionally made at the break of dawn. They range from marriage proposals, where a proposer would offer a wreath of flowers kissed by the first light of dawn, to political pledges, where officials would swear oaths of office. Even craftsmen would start new projects at sunrise, committing to invest their skills and dedication into their work.
Components and tools
The key component of Sun Pledges was the rising sun. However, depending on the nature of the vow, various tools and symbols were employed. For marriage proposals, a wreath of fresh flowers plucked at dawn was considered essential. For craftsmen's commitments, the tools of their respective trades were often prominently featured in the pledge.
For more spiritual or organised pledges like marriages, Sun Pledges would involve a kind of staff that could be placed on the ground to know when the optimal time to make the pledge would be made. A shape or marker at the top of the staff held against the sun would indicate the optimal time. These staffs were held by family elders or temple priests and would vary in height depending on the location that pledges were performed at.
by tarkinlarson using MidJourney
Participants
Participants in Sun Pledges were typically the individuals directly involved in the decision or pledge. This could include betrothed couples, community leaders, or craftsmen, among others. Witnesses were also sometimes present, depending on the type of pledge being made. In political vows, for example, the presence of community members was important to acknowledge the commitment of the leader to the people.
Observance
While the practice of Sun Pledges has declined under Namorian influence, some Acathian families, especially in more rural and remote areas of the Acathi Peninsula, continue to uphold the tradition. In more urban areas, individuals of Acathian descent may observe a form of Sun Pledges as a private practice or symbolic gesture, ensuring that the roots of this ancient custom are not entirely forgotten. Despite being viewed as old-fashioned in the context of modern, paperwork-driven society, Sun Pledges endure as a poignant reminder of the rich cultural heritage of the Acathians.
Primary Related Location
Related Ethnicities
Comments