Something Borrowed
CELESTIAL LUMINARIUM
- Intent: Uh... So, this started out as me trying to expand on what I had initially touched upon several years ago within the submission of the Reliquary of Galidraan. And then... it uh, it snowballed and um, yeah. So, now it’s to submit this religion that ‘has become increasingly prominent’ within the Dosuunian Commonwealth of Nations, somehow. Yeah... This was a lot of rabbit holes, anyway here we are.
- Image Credit: Six Petal Rosette (x) Clipart Library (x) Sun (x) Moon (x) Stars (x), composition, colors and edits by me.
- Canon: N/A
- Permissions: N/A
- Links: The Reliquary of Galidraan | Taoism | Hierarchy of the Catholic Church | Seven Pointed Star
- Religion Name: Celestial Luminarium
- Religion Type: Dualtheist, Force-based
- Influence: Interplanetary
- Influence Area: The Dosuunian Commonwealth of Nations
- Symbol:
- Celestial Rosette with Solar and Lunar Emblems: At the heart of the Celestial Faith's symbol is the intricate Six Petal Rosette, signifying balance and unity within the universe. This timeless emblem represents the interconnectedness of all aspects of life.
- Eve's Radiance - The Solar Emblem: Above the encircled rose, the radiant Sun takes its place. Its golden brilliance symbolizes Eve's radiance, wisdom, and the illuminating power of creation. The Sun serves as a source of light, guiding the followers of the faith with knowledge and enlightenment. Its position atop the rosette signifies the ascent toward understanding and spiritual enlightenment.
- Lilith's Shadow - The Lunar Emblem: Beneath the encircled rose, the serene Moon graces the symbol. Its silvery glow represents Lilith's shadow, strength, and the transformative nature of darkness. The Moon embodies mystery, resilience, and the empowering aspects of shadow. Positioned below the rosette, it signifies the depths of wisdom and the profound secrets of the universe.
- Cosmic Harmony - Stars of East and West: Flanking the Solar and Lunar Emblems, two stars adorn the symbol—one representing the east and the other the west. These stars epitomize cosmic balance, symbolizing the harmony between light and darkness, day and night. Their presence emphasizes the equilibrium within the celestial dance, aligning with the faith's reverence for dualities and unity.
- Encircled Rose: At the center of the symbol rests the singular red rose, enclosed within the rosette. This central emblem serves as a testament to the sister's essence, representing love, compassion, and the complexity of emotions. Encircled within the rosette, it signifies the eternal cycle of life, death, and rebirth.
This refined emblem embodies the profound beliefs of the Celestial Faith, harmonizing the forces of light and darkness, creation and transformation, and the infinite wisdom found within the cosmic balance. It stands as a sacred representation of the faith's guiding principles, inspiring its followers with the eternal dance of the universe.
- Description: The Celestial Faith, a profound spiritual tradition rooted in the mystical energies of the Force, venerates the cosmic duality embodied by the celestial sisters, Eve and Lilith. Originating in the turbulent Age of Darkness on Galidraan, this faith preaches the harmonious balance between light and darkness, creation and destruction, good and evil. Followers of the Celestial Faith believe that within this balance lies the true essence of the Force.
Central to the faith is the acknowledgment of Eve and Lilith as interconnected aspects of cosmic equilibrium. Eve, representing light, wisdom, and creation, and Lilith, embodying darkness, strength, and transformation, symbolize the cosmic forces that shape the universe. The teachings of the Celestial Faith emphasize acceptance of diversity, the pursuit of inner peace, and the understanding that every being has a unique role in the grand cosmic design.
In the Dosuunian Commonwealth, the Celestial Faith serves as a unifying force, bridging the divide between different cultures and beliefs. Its followers seek enlightenment through meditation, introspection, and the study of cosmic principles. The faith embraces the coexistence of various traditions and perspectives, fostering a sense of unity and understanding among its practitioners.
At its core, the Celestial Faith guides its adherents on a spiritual journey, encouraging them to explore the depths of their souls, embrace the interconnectedness of all life, and find harmony within the ever-shifting currents of the Force. Through its teachings, the Celestial Faith inspires a profound respect for the balance inherent in the universe, inviting believers to walk the path of cosmic enlightenment and self-discovery.
- Founder: The Celestial faith traces its roots back to the followers of Eve and Lilith, revered figures who, according to their teachings, never truly perished on Galidraan but instead became one with the Force. Their disciples firmly believe that these luminous entities will one day return to guide their faithful followers at the end of days.
The Celestial Faith traces its roots back to the followers of Eve and Lilith, revered figures who, according to their teachings, never truly perished on Galidraan but instead became one with the Force. Their disciples firmly believe that these luminous entities will one day return to guide their faithful followers at the end of days.
Among the founding followers were the first head priests, Adam, the beloved husband of Eve, and Lucifer, the devoted spouse of Lilith. Together, they and their fellow adherents, named the Luminaries, crafted the foundation of the faith. The Luminaries, comprising Miriam, Leah, Rachel, Hannah, Sarah, Zahra, and Layla, played a vital role in shaping the doctrines of the Celestial Faith.
Under the divine influence of the Great Celestial, often referred to as the Great Mother, the Luminaries composed sacred prayers that form the core of the faith. The Luminaries of Lilith, Zahra, and Layla penned the Mysteries of the Shadows, delving into the enigmatic aspects of the cosmic energies. Conversely, the Luminaries of Eve documented the Mysteries of the Light, exploring the illuminating facets of the Force. Additionally, they shared their personal experiences and accounts of their travels alongside the revered sisters.
In the annals of the faith, Adam's profound insights are encapsulated in the Testament of Light, the initial segment of the sacred text known as the Luminarium Scroll. Lucifer, on the other hand, penned the Gospel of Shadows, the concluding portion of the Luminarium Scroll. Together, these writings form the guiding principles of the Celestial Faith, illuminating the path for its devoted followers. - Membership: Becoming a member of the Celestial faith involves a relatively straightforward process, designed to be accessible to all individuals seeking spiritual connection. The following is more or less a ‘typical’ set of steps one might follow if they wish to become a member of the faith. After that would be steps someone would take if they wish to serve the faith, becoming a priest or a knight, for example.
- Becoming a member of the faith...
- 1. Acceptance of Eve and Lilith: The first and fundamental step is accepting Eve and Lilith as the deities of the Celestial faith. This acceptance signifies the recognition of their roles in the cosmic order and the teachings of balance and harmony.
- 2. Initiation and Guided Learning: Newcomers, known as Initiates, are welcomed into the faith. They receive basic teachings about the Celestial beliefs, the balance of cosmic energies, and the importance of harmony between light and shadow (symbolizing Eve and Lilith). Initiates are guided by experienced members of the faith during this initial phase.
- 3. Participation in Community Activities: Initiates are encouraged to participate in community activities, attend gatherings, and join in prayers and meditations. This involvement helps them integrate into the Celestial community, fostering a sense of belonging and spiritual connection.
- 4. Confirmation and Formal Membership: After a period of learning and participation, Initiates have the option to undergo the sacred rite of Confirmation. During this ceremony, they formally affirm their commitment to the Celestial faith, Eve, and Lilith. Confirmation marks their full membership in the faith, allowing them to access deeper teachings and engage in more advanced spiritual practices.
- 5. Continued Spiritual Growth: Once confirmed, members are encouraged to continue their spiritual growth. They can choose specific paths within the faith, such as becoming priests, priestesses, scholars, or Celestial Knights. Additionally, they have the opportunity to deepen their understanding of the cosmic balance and explore advanced aspects of the Celestial teachings.
- 6. Voluntary Contributions and Service: Members are encouraged, but not obligated, to make voluntary contributions to support the community and its charitable activities. Acts of service, both within the faith community and the broader society, are highly valued and contribute to the spiritual development of individuals.
- 7. Respect for Cosmic Balance: Throughout their journey within the Celestial faith, members are expected to honor and respect the cosmic balance represented by Eve and Lilith. This respect is reflected in their interactions with others, their choices, and their pursuit of harmony in all aspects of life.
Joining the Celestial faith is designed to be a personal and meaningful choice, allowing individuals to find solace, purpose, and spiritual connection within the cosmic balance of the universe.
- Choosing to serve the faith...
- The process of Confirmation in the Celestial Faith is a deeply transformative and introspective experience, designed to prepare individuals for a lifelong commitment to the cosmic balance represented by Eve and Lilith. Candidates undertaking Confirmation must be at least twenty-four years old by Galactic Standards, ensuring they have had ample time to explore life and spirituality before making this significant commitment.
- Duration and Seclusion: Confirmation is a two year-long process during which candidates are secluded from the general population. This period of seclusion allows candidates to immerse themselves fully in the teachings of the Celestial Faith and delve into the mysteries of the cosmos. Seclusion provides a focused environment where candidates can reflect, meditate, and internalize the profound concepts of cosmic balance and harmony.
- Studies and Practices: During their seclusion, candidates engage in intensive studies and practices. They become intimately familiar with prayer books, essential tools in the Celestial faith used for meditation and reflection. Through meditation, candidates explore the enlightenment that arises from embracing cosmic balance and harmony.
- Understanding the Tenets: A significant part of the Confirmation process involves gaining a deep understanding of the six tenets that form the core of the Celestial Faith.
- Effortless Action: Emphasizes the importance of natural and effortless action, aligning oneself with the flow of the universe without unnecessary struggle or resistance.
- Simplicity: Encourages individuals to embrace simplicity in thoughts, actions, and desires. It emphasizes the beauty of uncomplicated existence.
- Naturalness/Spontaneity: Teaches the value of embracing one's natural state and spontaneity, allowing life to unfold without artificiality or pretense.
- Compassion: Compassion lies at the heart of the Celestial Faith, urging individuals to show empathy, kindness, and understanding towards all sentient beings.
- Frugality: Frugality emphasizes the mindful use of resources, promoting sustainability, and discouraging excess and waste.
- Humility: Humility teaches the importance of modesty, acknowledging one's place within the vast cosmic order and avoiding arrogance or pride.
- These tenets, while complex and abstract, form the foundation of Celestial philosophy. Candidates delve deep into these concepts, contemplating their meanings and internalizing their wisdom.
- The process of Confirmation in the Celestial Faith is a deeply transformative and introspective experience, designed to prepare individuals for a lifelong commitment to the cosmic balance represented by Eve and Lilith. Candidates undertaking Confirmation must be at least twenty-four years old by Galactic Standards, ensuring they have had ample time to explore life and spirituality before making this significant commitment.
- Spiritual Growth and Self-Discovery: Confirmation serves as a transformative period, fostering spiritual growth and self-discovery. Candidates grapple with profound existential questions, seeking to harmonize their inner selves with the cosmic energies embodied by Eve and Lilith. Through meditation, prayer, and contemplation, candidates undergo a journey of enlightenment, paving the way for their deeper connection with the Celestial Faith.
In essence, Confirmation in the Celestial Faith is not just a ceremony; it is a profound spiritual odyssey, guiding candidates toward a life dedicated to balance, harmony, and service to the galactic community.
- Confirmation End Ceremony: The CEC in the Celestial faith is a sacred and significant rite, symbolizing a deep commitment to the balance of cosmic energies represented by Eve and Lilith. It is a step taken by individuals who, after experiencing life in the galaxy and understanding the teachings of the Celestial faith, wish to dedicate themselves in service to the faith community. This Ceremony concludes with the Oath of Service.
- The Oath of Service: A solemn vow that reflects their dedication to the Celestial faith and their commitment to the values it upholds. The Oath of Service varies slightly from individual to individual, allowing for personal resonance with the words spoken. However, the essence of the oath remains consistent, emphasizing unity, balance, and service to others. An example of the Oath of Service might read as follows:
- "I, [Candidate's Name], in the presence of the cosmic energies embodied by Eve and Lilith, do solemnly swear my commitment to the Celestial faith. I vow to uphold the sacred balance of light and shadow, striving for harmony in all aspects of existence. I dedicate myself to the service of the Celestial community, pledging to support and uplift my fellow beings.
I shall seek wisdom in the teachings of Eve and Lilith, nurturing my understanding of the cosmic order. I promise to be a beacon of compassion, kindness, and empathy, promoting peace and understanding among all sentient beings. I will respect the diversity of life and honor the sacredness within every soul.
In times of challenge, I will draw strength from the cosmic balance, finding solace in the knowledge that I am a part of a greater whole. I will protect the vulnerable, defend the defenseless, and advocate for justice in the galaxy. My actions shall reflect the teachings of the Celestial faith, and I shall endeavor to be a living embodiment of the harmony between light and shadow.
With this oath, I willingly accept my role as a servant of the Celestial faith, pledging my heart, mind, and spirit to the cosmic balance. May Eve and Lilith guide my path, and may my service be a testament to the eternal dance of cosmic energies."
- The Confirmation and the Oath of Service mark a profound spiritual milestone, signifying the individual's readiness to fully embrace the teachings of the Celestial faith and dedicate their life to the pursuit of balance, harmony, and service to the galactic community.
- The Oath of Service: A solemn vow that reflects their dedication to the Celestial faith and their commitment to the values it upholds. The Oath of Service varies slightly from individual to individual, allowing for personal resonance with the words spoken. However, the essence of the oath remains consistent, emphasizing unity, balance, and service to others. An example of the Oath of Service might read as follows:
- Sacred: To the Celestial faith, few things are as sacred as the interplay between the two primal forces: light and shadow. The balance of these cosmic energies is considered inviolate, a divine harmony that pervades every aspect of existence. Moreover, the Six Petal Rosette with Singular Rose Encircled, the sacred emblem of the faith, holds immense significance. It represents the delicate equilibrium between light (symbolized by the sun) and shadow (symbolized by the moon) and underscores the eternal dance between order and chaos. The celestial bodies themselves, the sun, moon, and stars, are revered as sacred manifestations of the Great Celestial's divine will, guiding the faithful with their celestial glow.
- Dogma: The Celestial faith is built upon the profound belief in balance and harmony. Its dogma emphasizes the interconnectedness of all life, recognizing that each being plays a crucial role in the cosmic tapestry. Followers are taught to seek equilibrium within themselves, balancing their desires and ambitions with selflessness and compassion. The teachings stress the importance of understanding both light and shadow within, embracing one's strengths and weaknesses to achieve true enlightenment.
The Path of Balance, a central tenet, encourages adherents to navigate the complexities of life with serenity and wisdom. The faithful are also guided by the Path of Unity, emphasizing cooperation, tolerance, and acceptance among diverse peoples and beliefs. The Path of Celestials, reserved for those who dedicate their lives to the faith, involves rigorous training in mastering the dual forces and becoming spiritual guides within the community.
Rituals and ceremonies are conducted with meticulous precision, aligning with celestial events like equinoxes and solstices. The sacred texts, collectively known as the "Luminarium," chronicle the ancient wisdom of the faith, guiding adherents toward spiritual enlightenment. The Luminarium speak of the Great Celestial's creation of light (Eve) and shadow (Lilith), serving as a guidebook for followers to understand the delicate equilibrium between these fundamental forces. - Reputation: The Celestial faith, while not as widespread as some of the galaxy's major religions, is starting to gain recognition and respect due to its emphasis on balance and harmony. Followers of the Celestial faith are often viewed with curiosity and admiration by those who encounter them. Their commitment to inner peace and cosmic understanding makes them respected counselors and diplomats in intergalactic affairs. However, misconceptions about their beliefs occasionally lead to misunderstandings, with some viewing the faith as overly abstract or esoteric. Nonetheless, the Celestial faith is gradually becoming a beacon of wisdom, drawing seekers from beyond the Commonwealth’s borders who are intrigued by the eternal dance of light and shadow that it venerates.
- Curios: Members of the Celestial faith often carry symbolic items that reflect their beliefs in balance, harmony, and the interplay between light and shadow. Here are a few possible curios that a member of the Celestial faith might carry:
- Celestial Medallion: A small medallion featuring the Six Petal Rosette with Singular Rose Encircled, the sacred emblem of the faith, often worn as a necklace or bracelet. It serves as a constant reminder of the balance between light and shadow.
- Balance Talisman: A carved stone or crystal talisman depicting a balanced scale, symbolizing equilibrium. This talisman might be kept in a pocket or worn as an amulet.
- The Luminarum Prayer Book: A small book containing excerpts from the sacred texts of the Luminarum, the Celestial faith's ancient scriptures. Devotees might carry this book for inspiration and guidance during their daily lives.
- Sun and Moon Stones: Polished precious stones representing the sun and moon, often carried together. The sun stone represents light, strength, and vitality, while the moon stone represents shadow, introspection, and intuition. Carrying both stones signifies the importance of balancing these qualities.
- Celestial Prayer Beads: A set of prayer beads made from various materials, each bead representing a celestial body (sun, moon, stars). Devotees use these beads during meditation and prayer, focusing on the harmony of the cosmos.
- Cosmic Map: A portable map depicting celestial constellations and their meanings in the faith. Carrying this map allows devotees to reflect on the vastness of the universe and their place within it.
- Sapientia Astrorum: A holy book containing passages from the Luminarum, members of the faith usually have a copy of the book typically one per household. More devout families may have more than one.
- Hierarchy: The hierarchy of the Celestial Luminarium is as follows...
The Celestial Luminarium is led by two revered women known as the Luminaria Sol and Luminaria Luna. They are the spiritual guides of the faith, often referred to as Mater Sol and Mater Luna or Revered Matres by the laypeople. Some also address them as Divinia Sol and Divinia Luna. These two leaders work together to provide guidance and wisdom to the faithful.
- Council of Astral Elders: Comprising esteemed clergy members known as Matrons and Patrons, the Council of Astral Elders acts as advisors to the Luminarias. Chosen for their deep understanding of the Celestial teachings, they offer counsel on matters of faith, doctrine, and the interpretation of cosmic visions.
- Celestial Prelates: The Celestial Prelates are regional leaders responsible for specific territories or systems within the Commonwealth. They oversee clusters of churches and communities, ensuring the faithful are educated in the ways of the Celestial faith. Celestial Prelates conduct ceremonies, resolve disputes, and maintain the spiritual integrity of their regions.
- Temple Clergy: Each church is led by a dedicated group of clergy members, including priests, priestesses, and scholars. They guide the local congregation, leading prayers, offering spiritual counsel, and organizing religious festivals. Temples are often led by two Priests or Priestesses, assisted by deacons and scholars. Scholars are frequently monks from local monasteries.
- Friars in the Celestial Faith: Friars within the Celestial Faith are devoted members who lead lives of service and simplicity. These friars, deeply rooted in the teachings of the faith, venture beyond the confines of monastic life. They are itinerant preachers, traveling from settlement to settlement, spreading the wisdom of the Celestial Faith. Friars are often seen as spiritual guides, providing counsel to those seeking solace and enlightenment. They are known for their humility and compassion, offering aid to the needy, tending to the sick, and teaching the tenets of the Celestial Faith to those willing to learn. Some friars specialize in healing arts, becoming herbalists or medics, offering both spiritual and physical healing to their communities. [Friars are typically men.]
- Nuns in the Celestial Faith: Nuns in the Celestial Faith are revered for their dedication to both their spiritual beliefs and their communities. They often reside in convents, where they lead lives of prayer, meditation, and study. Nuns play a crucial role in preserving and transmitting the sacred knowledge of the faith. They are often scholars, scribes, and keepers of the faith's extensive archives. Nuns also engage in charitable work, running orphanages, schools, and hospitals. Their days are marked by a balance of devotion and service. Additionally, nuns are skilled in herbalism and apothecary, creating remedies and potions from natural ingredients, which they distribute to the sick and suffering. Nuns are respected for their wisdom and are sought after for their guidance in matters of faith and life. [Nuns are typically women.]
- Celestial Knights: A unique order within the faith, Celestial Knights are skilled warriors who have embraced the Celestial teachings. They are defenders of the faith and guardians of cosmic balance, proficient in both physical combat and the use of the Force. Celestial Knights protect temples, pilgrims, and Celestial emissaries. They are dispatched to guard monasteries, convents, friaries, and abbeys, as well as churches when the need arises. Often, they accompany pilgrims throughout the Commonwealth and on journeys to and from Galidraan.
- Reliquaries: Reliquaries serve as training grounds for Celestial Knights, providing instruction in conflict resolution, self-defense, and the ethical use of the Force. They are often associated with monasteries, convents, friaries, or abbeys. Knights receive Guild-approved training in the Force, emphasizing de-escalation before resorting to physical combat.
- Celestial Initiates: Initiates are novices and new adherents to the faith, undergoing rigorous training under the guidance of the Temple Clergy. They learn the tenets of the Celestial Faith, meditation practices, and the art of connecting with the Force. Initiates are prepared for the sacred rite of Confirmation, where they formally join the Celestial community. Following confirmation, they may choose to attend Seminary School to become priests or opt for other paths such as becoming monks, nuns, friars, abbots, or abbesses.
- Abbeys in the Celestial Faith: Abbeys in the Celestial Faith serve as sanctuaries for Initiates who are on a transformative journey of self-discovery. These sacred spaces welcome those who are uncertain of their spiritual calling, offering them a haven for contemplation and service. Within the tranquil walls of the abbeys, Initiates find purpose in serving the marginalized and vulnerable members of society. They engage in acts of kindness and generosity, providing sustenance to the poor, solace to the weak, and comfort to the hungry. Abbeys often boast vibrant vegetable gardens and livestock, tended to by the Initiates, ensuring a sustainable source of nourishment for those in need. Initiates learn the importance of humility, empathy, and community as they carry out their duties within the abbeys.
- Priories in the Celestial Faith: Priories in the Celestial Faith mark the beginning of a committed monastic life for Initiates who have found their spiritual path. Within these serene environments, Initiates transform into monks, dedicating themselves to a life of prayer, meditation, and vocational craftsmanship. Monastic education commences in priories, where Initiates delve deep into the teachings of the Celestial Faith, exploring the profound wisdom of Eve and Lilith. Alongside their spiritual pursuits, Initiates acquire artisan skills that are considered sacred crafts within the faith. These skills include wood carving, carpentry, blacksmithing, stained glass artistry, mosaic crafting, weaving, transcription, bookbinding, and papermaking, among others. These crafts, once thought to be lost, are revived and cherished within the hallowed halls of the priories. Initiates also engage in profound periods of meditation, reflection, and contemplation, honing their connection with the cosmic energies that guide their faith. Priories serve as crucibles of transformation, shaping devoted monks who contribute significantly to the Celestial Faith and the wider community.
- Seminary School in the Celestial Faith: Standing as bastions of higher learning and spiritual enlightenment. It is a revered institution where devoted Initiates, having chosen the path of priesthood, embark on a rigorous and comprehensive educational journey. The school is designed to nurture their understanding of the profound cosmic mysteries and the intricate teachings of Eve and Lilith.
Within the hallowed halls of the seminary, Initiates are immersed in an intensive curriculum encompassing theology, philosophy, comparative religions, and the sacred texts of the Celestial Faith. They engage in scholarly pursuits, delving deep into the ancient scriptures and interpreting the subtle nuances of the cosmic balance. The curriculum is complemented by intensive meditation practices, fostering a profound spiritual connection and enhancing their attunement to the Force.
Seminary School also places a strong emphasis on pastoral care and counseling. Initiates are trained in the art of empathetic listening, offering spiritual guidance to the faithful and acting as conduits between the cosmic energies and the people. They learn the intricacies of rituals, ceremonies, and cosmic meditations, preparing them to lead congregations and guide Initiates on their spiritual journeys.
Moreover, Seminary School serves as a center of cultural preservation and artistic expression. Initiates delve into the rich tapestry of Celestial art, music, and literature, understanding the symbolic significance of each creation in the context of the faith. Artisans within the seminary craft intricate religious artifacts, sacred relics, and exquisite ceremonial garments, upholding the tradition of artisanal craftsmanship within the Celestial Faith.
Upon graduation from Seminary School, these learned priests emerge as beacons of wisdom and compassion, capable of guiding their congregations, performing sacred rites, and ensuring the spiritual well-being of the Celestial community. Seminary School, with its holistic approach to education and spirituality, plays a pivotal role in shaping the future leaders and guardians of the Celestial Faith.
- Celestial Congregation: At the foundation of the hierarchy lies the Celestial Congregation, encompassing all followers of the faith. Their collective devotion and belief in cosmic energies sustain the Celestial Faith, fostering a spiritually enriched community within the Commonwealth of Nations.
MEMBERS
Kelora Priestly
and her wife Nassira are among the most prominent followers of the faith. There are no other PCs or NPCs to list at this time. HISTORICAL INFORMATION
In the ancient annals of the Galidraani systems, amidst the cosmic tapestry of stars, the Celestial Faith found its roots on the verdant world of Galidraan. It emerged during the tumultuous Age of Darkness, a time marked by strife and upheaval, when the galaxy grappled with uncertainty and chaos. It was amidst this darkness that a group of enlightened individuals, drawing inspiration from the mysterious energies of the Force, forged the foundations of a new faith, centered around the cosmic duality of Eve and Lilith.
On Galidraan the faith had been fractured and remained so for hundreds of years, although there had been attempts to rectify this fragmentation. Such attempts were futile as representatives of both clergy seemingly refused to see eye to eye. Scholars have not been able to point to a specific period as to when the faith fractured and where the schism within the church occurred. Some are of the assumption that the Church had been separated by the celestial sisters themselves.
The foundations of both faiths seemed to have told slightly different accounts of the same incident. Yet it wasn’t until the faith reached Dosuun in the mid 800s that the two churches would merge into one. It was there that the The Celestial faith reached its zenith, as wave after wave of Galidraani settlers arrived on Dosuun bringing with them the teachings of the Celestial faith. The faith then began to find resonance with the diverse beliefs already present in the world.
On Dosuun, the faith flourished, weaving its way into the cultural fabric of the planet. Albeit, slower than faiths such as the Cosmic Balance. Yet, the Celestial teachings found fertile ground for growth. Here the fragmentation of the faith seemingly ceased to exist and the faith was taught as the cosmic duality that perhaps it was always intended to be. During this period the faith, which recognized Eve and Lilith as two facets of cosmic balance, also acknowledged the Church of Eve and the Church of Lilith as integral parts of this duality. The Dosuunian Celestial faith bridged the divide between the two sects, fostering unity and understanding.
The duality of Eve and Lilith, the celestial sisters, who were believed to have been blessed with a unique connection to the Force, which the faithful saw as a manifestation of cosmic balance. Their teachings emphasized the harmony between light and darkness, good and evil, creation and destruction. Sanctuaries of Dosuun became places of refuge for those who sought solace in the midst of war. Becoming prominent during the war between the First Order and the Galactic Alliance. Here, the Celestial teachings found a fertile ground for growth, attracting followers from various walks of life.
Over the years, the Celestial faith’s influence continued to expand within Dosuun and eventually throughout the Dosuunian Commonwealth. It became a beacon of spiritual enlightenment, drawing in beings from different planets and backgrounds. The teachings of cosmic balance, acceptance of diversity, and the interconnectedness of all living things resonated with many, making the Celestial faith a unifying force in the ever-evolving tapestry of the Commonwealth's rich cultural mosaic. Today, the Celestial faith stands as a testament to the enduring power of cosmic harmony, guiding the faithful on a journey of self-discovery and enlightenment.
The Duel of the Faiths: Below is an overview of how the Church of Eve, and subsequently the Church of Lilith viewed themselves on Galidraan. It is important to read through how each Church saw itself. As this is how the faith found itself locked in war for four hundred years. Naturally a lot of it went underground, but what is most remarkable is how the faith seemingly repaired itself when it arrived on Dosuun.
How the Church of Eve viewed themselves...
Legend has it that during the mysterious epoch of the 400 Years of Darkness, Eve and her sister Lilith embarked on a quest, driven by an insatiable thirst for knowledge. In their pursuit, they encountered relics from the Jedi-Mandalorian Conflict, artifacts steeped in ancient power and wisdom. As they delved into the mysteries of the Force, Eve and Lilith forged an unbreakable bond, their connection representing the delicate balance of the cosmic forces.
The chronicles of the Eveites recount a pivotal moment when their deity, Eve, communed with Adam, an enigmatic figure whose arrival marked a turning point in their fate. Together, they explored the intricacies of the Force and the cosmos, seeking to unravel the secrets that bound the galaxy. However, as their exploration continued, tensions arose, leading to a divergence in their paths. It was said that Lucifer convinced Lilith to betray her sister in an effort to keep the power of the mysteries to herself. Adam on behalf of the Great Celestial, the entity credited with their creation, intervened, setting the stage for a cosmic drama that echoed through the ages.
The Church of Eve teaches that their revered deity was a beacon of wisdom and understanding, striving to maintain balance in the Force. According to their sacred texts, Eve's benevolent teachings contrast sharply with the perceived arrogance and ambition of Lilith. The Church believes that the intervention of the Great Celestial, while inevitable, disrupted the natural order, leading to a schism between the two sisters.
In the contemporary galactic landscape, the Eveites champion the pursuit of knowledge, enlightenment, and cosmic harmony. Their temples, adorned with intricate celestial motifs, stand as bastions of wisdom and sanctity, where followers seek spiritual enlightenment and guidance. Amidst the clashes of faith and the echoes of ancient grudges, the Church of Eve remains a steadfast beacon of serenity and understanding, offering solace to those who seek enlightenment in the ever-shifting currents of the Force.
While, from a certain point of view...
Lilith: According to the sacred texts of the Celestials, Lilith and Eve harnessed this newfound power, fostering a unique connection between them. However, their destiny took an unexpected turn when they encountered Adam, a figure shrouded in mystery, who eventually crossed paths with Eve. The events that followed remain shrouded in myth, but the outcome was Lilith's exile, orchestrated by Adam and the enigmatic Great Celestial who had created them all. Alone in the vast expanse of the Great Darkness, Lilith found solace in the presence of another kindred spirit—Lucifer. Together, they uncovered the distortion of their own story, manipulated by the hands of Adam, Eve, and the Great Celestial.
It is whispered among the Celestials that the Great Celestial coveted the power wielded by Lilith and Eve, orchestrating Adam's interference to sever their bond. However, adherents of the Path of Adam present a different narrative. To them, Lilith is a scandalous figure deserving of her fate, and Lucifer was a corrupted soul long before Adam's arrival. They argue that Lucifer's avarice led him down the path to the Great Darkness.
In the wake of these conflicting beliefs, a holy war has raged across the Galidraani systems for four centuries, a conflict rooted in ancient grudges and theological disputes. The fervent followers of Lilith continue their struggle for independence, while those of the Path of Adam staunchly oppose them. In the celestial tapestry of the galaxy, the Church of Lilith stands as a testament to the enduring clash of faiths, power, and destiny.
The Return of the Sects: The arrival of the enigmatic sect known as "the Harmonies'' among the first wave of Galidraani settlers to Dosuun marked a pivotal moment in the history of the Celestial faith. Rumored to be peacemakers and healers, the Harmonies embarked on a mission to mend the fractured fabric of their religion. Their unconventional interpretation of the celestial texts caused ripples of disbelief and skepticism among both Eveites and Liliths on Galidraan.
Amidst this tension, a significant gathering, the Council of Sarissa, was convened in the tranquil hamlet of Sarissa, Galidraan II. Here, the Harmonies revealed their unique composition, comprising members from both the Eveite and Lilith sects. It was within the hallowed grounds of Sarissa that the Dosuunian Celestial faith, distinct from its Galidraani roots, began to take shape.
At this historic council, a fragile agreement was reached. Both Eveites and Liliths on Dosuun and Galidraan acknowledged the right of pilgrims to practice their faith in peace on either world. However, the Dosuunian-based Harmonies, wary of potential discord from their Galidraani brethren, took proactive measures to ensure the safeguarding of their newfound unity.
In response, they encouraged their faithful to form what would become the esteemed order of the Celestial Knights. These guardians, infused with the wisdom of both Eve and Lilith, were tasked with protecting the sacred sites, pilgrims, and emissaries of the Celestial faith. This visionary move not only ensured the harmony of the Dosuunian Celestial faith but also set the stage for the creation of an order dedicated to preserving the cosmic balance across the Commonwealth of Nations.
The Orders Awaken: The emergence of the "Order of the Black Rose" heralded a new chapter in the annals of the Dosuunian Celestial Faith. Committed to upholding the cosmic equilibrium and safeguarding the sanctity of their faith, this order took on the responsibility of locating wayward Celestial Knights and guiding them back into the embrace of their beliefs. Their mission, while noble, stirred ripples of response within the Galidraani Celestial Faith.
In response to the proactive stance of the Dosuunian faith, the Galidraani sects, Church of Lilith and Church of Eve, each established their own orders. The Church of Lilith founded the "Order of Thorns," dedicated to the preservation of Lilith's teachings, while the Church of Eve birthed the "Order of Sarissa," focused on upholding the wisdom of Eve.
However, this proliferation of orders, each fiercely guarding their beliefs, has in recent times exacerbated tensions between the Dosuunian and Galidraani faiths. The once-unified Celestial Faith found itself entangled in a web of differences and conflicting interpretations. The delicate balance between unity and divergence became a challenge, testing the resilience of the faith in the face of ideological discord.
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