Mahovanism
One of the Religions of Alland; the most widespread faith in Verdanus, specifically.
Mythology & Lore
Mahova is said to be the God who had given birth to the world and its people; giving them the 5 Laws.
One Thousand years after Mahova's Creation, Alcohol was brewed, and the heretics began to drink, becoming Violent, Belligerent and Sexually offensive; committing unspeakably horrific acts in their stupor.
In Response to the new horrors Mahovans had to deal with, Mahova gave them the protection of the Temple, alongside a fraction of his Quintessence, granting them Incredible Strength and Vitality, alongside the ability to use Mahovan Spells and the ability to harness Mahovan Arms to assist in upholding his words.
One Thousand years after Mahova's Creation, Alcohol was brewed, and the heretics began to drink, becoming Violent, Belligerent and Sexually offensive; committing unspeakably horrific acts in their stupor.
In Response to the new horrors Mahovans had to deal with, Mahova gave them the protection of the Temple, alongside a fraction of his Quintessence, granting them Incredible Strength and Vitality, alongside the ability to use Mahovan Spells and the ability to harness Mahovan Arms to assist in upholding his words.
Divine Origins
Mahovanism was theorized and started by A sect of Light Mages in Oalen, who have decided to make the Five Laws in order to fight off and provide sanctuary amid a series of violent acts at the hands of Brigands. The practice proved to be extremely successful; and the Religion began to spread across Oalen; eventually allowing Mahovanism to become one of the Nation's three branches.
Tenets of Faith
The Laws of Mahova are Five primary ways of life one must uphold to be seen as worthy by Mahova.
- Deny Alcohol: Alcoholic drinks are seen as pure evil, and the state of being intoxicated is seen as a demonic state, if you drink; you must pay penitence or risk damnation.
- Deny Celebration: Holidays and Festivities must not be celebrated, every day is to be devoted to upholding the laws and maintaining order.
- Remain Tidy: Devote your attention to making your surroundings, alongside yourself clean and presentable.
- Labor for Mahova: Mahovans have the duty to work for Mahovan institutions, or at least assist them when needed.
- Enforce: It is the solemn duty of Mahovans to enforce the other four laws, and to spread the word of Mahova.
Worship
Mahovans worship Mahova, and follow the Five Laws; in addition, Mahovans go to their local Temple at least once a week for prayer and congregation.
Priesthood
Bishops are the highest Rank of Mahovan, Bishops are the ones who run ceremony and prayer in Mahovan Temples. In addition, Bishops are also in charge of erecting Barriers for the Town and Temple, protecting their area.
Bishops are appointed by the Clergy in a vote among all practicing Mahovans, one must be a practicing Priest for at least 10 Years before being eligible for the Bishop Rank.
Granted Divine Powers
When one practices under Mahova, the Clergy may grant them the higher ranks of Bishop or Paladin.
Bishops and Paladins gain access to several Light Magic Spells, alongside the use of Mahovan Arms, Magical Weapons which gain potency and the ability to detect and destroy Alcohol and those who drink it.
Political Influence & Intrigue
The Mahovan Church, and the Paladins in particular play a major role in Oalen's governance and Military, making up one of the three branches of their Government, alongside the Royals and Merchants.
It is estimated that approximately 20% of Oalen's army is composed of Mahovan Paladins, many of which rank highly.
Sects
Larian Mahovanism: In East Laria, there exists a sect of Mahovans who still partake in the holidays and traditions of Dawn Elves, they follow Four Laws, instead of 5. Mainstream Mahovans occasionally refer to Larian Mahovans as "Weak Mahovans".
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