Ziran (Zeh-Rahn)

One of the The Gods of Alterra.
God of Knowledge, Innovation, and Perseverance

Appearance

Ziran is depicted as a studious, stoic Drinn-Thol male, although a tad thinner and taller than most Thol. His statue is adorned with stacks of tomes and a walking cane, as well as a symbol of an ornate torch.

Tenets

• Preserve knowledge in all its forms.

• Seek to understand, never assume.

• Never give up on an undertaking.

• Always be studious and a lifelong learner.

Symbolism

• Onyx

• Torch

• Owl

• Quill and Tome

• Key

• Shoe

Ziranite Baptism

Baptism is not required in order to be a follower of any particular god. However, anyone who wishes to officially enter a faith community or become Devoted may partake in the baptism ritual of the diety they wish to follow. (NOTE: It is highly suggested to roleplay a baptism when gaining the Devotion ability from Way of the Faithful, but it is not required)
A Ziranite baptism is typically performed somewhere dark and indoors, lit by candlelight. The candidate will kneel in the location before anyone else arrives. Next, any attending Ziranites will enter the location and take their places sitting or standing around the room. Finally, the sponsor will enter the room bearing a lit torch.
The sponsor will stand before the candidate to say some words about Ziran and the faith. The floor will then be opened to any Ziranites attending to ask questions of the candidate. Unusually, Non-Ziranites may also attend baptisms and ask questions. These questions generally pertain to their character, asking the candidate about their reasons for following this path. They may also ask about future endeavors and anything else relevant to the candidate. These questions are not meant to have a right or wrong answer- the candidate is expected to answer any and all questions to the best of their ability. They may choose to leave a question unanswered, but they man not lie.
After the questioning the sponsor will hold out a book that has some relevance to either the candidate or the faith. The candidate will place their hand upon it. The candidate will then recite the four tenets of Ziran (the sponsor does not lead in this). After which the sponsor will hand their torch to the candidate and they will rise as a Ziranite.

Sacred Armament: One-Handed Mace
Holy Symbol: Ornate Torch
Gemstone: Onyx