Nisdon, God Of The Underworld

Nisdon, the True Neutral God of the Underworld, is a deity whose dominion extends over the realms of death, the transition of souls, and the mysterious expanses of the afterlife. In the celestial pantheon of Eothea, he holds an essential and impartial role as the guardian of cosmic balance, overseeing the passage between life and death without favoring the virtuous or condemning the wicked.

Nisdon manifests with an aura of tranquil neutrality, appearing as a figure cloaked in ethereal darkness, standing as a sentinel at the boundary between mortal existence and the great unknown. His divine presence exudes a serene calmness, embodying a quiet strength that upholds the impartiality of the cycles of life and death.

The divine realm of Nisdon is a place of peaceful transition, where souls find solace in the journey from the world of the living to the afterlife. This realm is characterized by its somber yet tranquil ambiance, adorned with symbols that guide the departed through the introspective process of crossing into the unknown. It is a place of reflection and quiet contemplation, offering an opportunity for souls to come to terms with their mortal lives before continuing on their eternal journey.

As a True Neutral deity, Nisdon governs the process of death without bias, ensuring that the transition of souls is neither punitive nor rewarding but instead simply follows the natural order. Mortals turn to Nisdon for comfort and understanding, seeking his guidance in times of loss and uncertainty. His followers believe in the god’s impartiality and the calm assurance that Nisdon oversees the cycle of life and death with fairness, imparting a sense of peace and acceptance to those who revere him.

Temples and shrines dedicated to Nisdon are typically quiet, solemn places of reflection where worshipers contemplate mortality, the soul’s passage, and the mysteries of the afterlife. These sacred spaces serve as sanctuaries for those seeking solace, and they provide an environment where adherents honor the departed and pray for guidance in their own spiritual journeys.

In the grand cosmic scheme of Eothea, Nisdon’s influence reaches far beyond the physical realm, extending into the unseen dimensions that regulate the ebb and flow between life and death. As the guardian of this delicate balance, Nisdon stands as a figure of impartiality and grace, ensuring that the cycle of existence continues in harmony, unaffected by the morality of individual souls but guided by the natural laws that govern the universe.

Divine Domains

Nisdon's Divine Domains encompass the areas of Death, Grave, and Balance. As the True Neutral God of the Underworld, his domains reflect his role in overseeing the impartial transition of souls and maintaining the cosmic equilibrium between life and death.

• Death: Nisdon governs the end of life, but not in a punitive or vengeful manner. Instead, his influence ensures that death is a natural and inevitable part of existence, guiding souls to their proper rest and continuation in the afterlife. He oversees the process of soul departure from the mortal realm, providing peace and tranquility to those who pass away.
• Grave: This domain focuses on the sacred resting places of the departed and the rituals that honor those who have passed. It involves the respectful handling of bodies, the mourning process, and the preservation of the memory of the deceased. Followers of Nisdon believe in the importance of maintaining a balanced relationship with the dead, ensuring that the grave is a place of reverence rather than fear.
• Balance: As the True Neutral deity, Nisdon embodies the concept of cosmic balance, ensuring that no aspect of existence—whether life or death, virtue or vice—dominates the other. His influence ensures that the forces of the universe remain in harmony, and that the transition from life to death is carried out impartially, without favoritism toward any one aspect of existence.

Together, these domains reflect Nisdon’s role as the impartial overseer of the cycle of life and death, ensuring that the flow of existence remains harmonious and unbroken. His worshippers turn to him for guidance on matters of mortality, the afterlife, and finding peace within the inevitable cycle of existence.

Artifacts

Artifacts attributed to Nisdon, the True Neutral God of the Underworld, are typically objects that embody his dominion over death, the afterlife, and the maintenance of balance between realms. These sacred items often serve as tools for guiding souls, maintaining equilibrium, and protecting the living from the perils of the unknown. While these artifacts are rare and deeply revered, they carry with them immense power and are sought after by those who wish to gain deeper understanding of death or seek guidance in the realms beyond. Below are several artifacts associated with Nisdon:

1. The Veil of Eternity: This ethereal cloak is said to be woven from the very fabric that separates the realms of the living from the afterlife. When worn, it grants the wearer the ability to communicate with spirits and traverse the boundary between life and death. The Veil of Eternity is often used by clerics and morticians to perform rites for the deceased or to offer guidance to wandering souls. It is said that the wearer can walk in the presence of spirits without disturbing the natural balance between life and death, offering them peace in their transition.
2. The Silent Lantern: This lantern, with its soft, glowing flame, is a symbol of Nisdon’s guidance through the darkness of death. It is said to light the way for souls who are lost or confused in the transition to the afterlife, guiding them safely across the threshold of death. The Silent Lantern has the power to illuminate the path for those trapped between life and death, helping them find peace or deliverance. It is also believed that the lantern can be used to reveal hidden truths, such as the true nature of death and the afterlife, to those worthy of the knowledge.
3. The Ebon Scythe: A legendary weapon attributed to Nisdon, the Ebon Scythe is said to be the instrument of his divine judgment. Though not used to bring death in the sense of battle, it is said to be wielded by Nisdon during the final moments of a soul’s passage. The scythe is believed to sever the bond between the mortal realm and the soul, allowing the spirit to pass through to the afterlife. The Ebon Scythe is also a symbol of the impartiality of death, cutting away all attachments and earthly desires to allow the soul to journey onward unburdened. It is a relic of both power and grace, representing the necessary severance that marks the end of life.
4. The Soulstone of Equilibrium: A gem of dark, translucent hue, the Soulstone is believed to be the heart of Nisdon's divine balance. It is said to contain the essence of the cosmic scales that weigh each soul’s journey, ensuring neither justice nor punishment dominates the transition between life and death. The Soulstone of Equilibrium can be used by high priests of Nisdon to maintain harmony in the natural order, and it is said to possess the ability to restore balance in situations where death has been disturbed, such as when souls refuse to pass or when an unnatural force interferes with the natural cycle of life and death.
5. The Tombkeeper’s Tome: A sacred text passed down through generations of Nisdon’s followers, the Tombkeeper’s Tome is a record of rites, rituals, and secrets of the underworld. It contains knowledge on how to honor the dead, preserve the sanctity of graves, and guide souls through the afterlife. Some believe that the Tome holds the key to unlocking the deeper mysteries of the afterlife, including the ability to open portals to the realms of the dead, though such knowledge is heavily guarded and only entrusted to the most devout and trusted followers of Nisdon.

These artifacts are not only symbols of Nisdon’s divine dominion but also serve as powerful tools for those who seek to understand or interact with the mysteries of death. They embody the god’s neutral and impartial nature, ensuring that the process of death is respected and the souls of the departed are guided with balance and serenity.

Holy Books & Codes

The holy book of Nisdon is known as The Silent Passage. This revered text serves as the spiritual guide for followers of Nisdon, the True Neutral God of the Underworld. The Silent Passage is a collection of teachings, prayers, and sacred rites that focus on the nature of death, the afterlife, and the balance between life and death. It is considered a guide to understanding the cosmic order, the impartiality of Nisdon, and the serenity that can be found in the acceptance of mortality.

The book is divided into several key sections, each offering insights into different aspects of the spiritual journey that Nisdon oversees:

1. The Path to Eternity: This section discusses the nature of death as a natural and inevitable process, explaining that death is neither a punishment nor a reward but simply a transition. It offers philosophical reflections on mortality and encourages followers to live with an understanding that death is a part of the cosmic order, to be approached with acceptance and reverence.
2. The Balance of Souls: In this part, The Silent Passage explores Nisdon’s role in maintaining the impartial flow of life and death. It emphasizes that all souls, regardless of their actions during their mortal lives, are treated with neutrality in the afterlife. The concept of balance and equilibrium is central, with teachings on how souls are guided through the transition without favoritism or judgment.
3. The Rites of Passage: This section outlines the sacred rituals associated with death, burial, and the honoring of the departed. It offers guidance on how to properly conduct funeral rites, how to honor ancestors, and how to care for graves and tombs to ensure that the transition of souls remains unimpeded. These rituals are designed to bring comfort to the living while respecting the sacredness of death.
4. The Eternal Rest: The final section of The Silent Passage is devoted to the concept of rest and peace in the afterlife. It provides solace to the living by explaining that the souls of the departed are not lost or forgotten but find peace in Nisdon’s realm. Followers are encouraged to meditate on the serenity of the afterlife and reflect on their own spiritual journeys, seeking harmony with the natural flow of existence.

The Silent Passage is often kept in the sanctuaries and temples of Nisdon, where it is studied and revered by the faithful. Priests and followers of Nisdon use the text to perform ceremonies, offer comfort to the grieving, and guide those who seek a deeper understanding of the mysteries of life and death. The book’s tone is solemn and contemplative, reflecting Nisdon’s own neutral and serene nature, encouraging readers to embrace the inevitability of death with grace and peace.

Divine Symbols & Sigils

Nisdon's holy symbol is a silver scale, perfectly balanced, with a single black feather delicately draped across one side. The scale represents the impartiality and balance that Nisdon brings to the cycle of life and death, symbolizing that no soul is favored over another. The feather, in its blackness, signifies the transition from life to death, carrying with it a subtle reminder of the calm and serene nature of the afterlife. It evokes the idea that the soul, like a feather, is light and free to pass from the mortal realm to the next with grace and neutrality.

The scale itself is finely detailed, often appearing as though it is floating in perfect equilibrium, suggesting Nisdon’s eternal watchfulness over the cosmic balance. The feather, positioned across the scale, symbolizes the gentle and impartial guiding hand that Nisdon extends to all souls, ensuring their peaceful passage.

This symbol is typically worn as an amulet by followers of Nisdon, displayed at temples and sanctuaries dedicated to him, or etched onto gravestones and memorials to honor the dead. It is a symbol of respect for the deceased, a reminder of the natural progression of life into death, and a representation of the peace and tranquility that Nisdon offers to those who pass beyond the veil.

Tenets of Faith

The Tenets of Faith of Nisdonism, the religion devoted to Nisdon, the True Neutral God of the Underworld, are principles that guide the followers in their understanding of life, death, and the balance between the two. These tenets encourage reverence for the natural order of existence, impartiality toward the living and the dead, and a deep respect for the cycle of life that Nisdon oversees. The Tenets of Faith are as follows:

1. Embrace the Cycle of Life and Death: Recognize that death is not an end, but a natural part of the cosmic cycle. Life and death are interconnected and must be accepted with reverence. Followers of Nisdon are encouraged to live fully, knowing that death is inevitable and a necessary transition into the afterlife.
2. Honor the Departed: Treat the souls of the deceased with respect and compassion, recognizing that they, too, are part of the balance that governs the universe. Burial rites, memorials, and regular acts of remembrance help maintain harmony with the departed and ensure that their passage into the afterlife is peaceful.
3. Seek Balance in All Things: Strive to maintain balance in one’s own life and in interactions with others. Just as Nisdon governs the impartial flow of souls, followers are encouraged to approach every aspect of existence with neutrality, avoiding extremes of emotion, judgment, and attachment. Balance in thought, action, and spirit is key to living a life in harmony with the natural world.
4. Do Not Favor the Living Over the Dead: As Nisdon shows no partiality between the living and the dead, followers are taught to value both equally. The living are to live with the awareness of their eventual death, and the dead are to be honored as they continue their journey. Life and death are not to be feared or exalted but understood as coexisting realities.
5. Guide Souls with Impartiality: Those who follow Nisdon are entrusted with the responsibility of guiding souls, whether through rituals of the dead or by assisting those who are struggling with their own mortality. This guidance must be impartial, offering comfort without favoritism or condemnation, embodying the neutrality that Nisdon exemplifies.
6. Respect the Sanctity of the Grave: The final resting place of the dead is sacred and must be protected. Followers are called to ensure that graves, tombs, and memorials are properly cared for, keeping the cycle of life and death undisturbed. The grave is a reflection of the respect for those who have passed and a space for peaceful transition.
7. Live in Peace with Mortality: Mortals should strive to live with an understanding that death is not to be feared or mourned in excess. Instead, followers are encouraged to focus on living in harmony with their nature, preparing for the transition with grace and acceptance, and avoiding unnecessary attachment to worldly concerns.
8. Respect All Paths to the Afterlife: Nisdonism does not seek to impose one view of the afterlife over another, and followers are encouraged to show respect for other beliefs surrounding death. The Tenet of Respect allows for peaceful coexistence with other faiths and philosophies, acknowledging that all souls ultimately make their journey, regardless of their faith in Nisdon.
9. Be the Stewards of the Living and the Dead: Followers of Nisdon are called to be stewards of both the living and the deceased, ensuring that both are treated with dignity. This includes providing aid to those nearing the end of life, comforting those who grieve, and ensuring the proper treatment of the remains of the dead, promoting the balance that Nisdon maintains.
10. Seek Serenity in the Face of Death: Above all, Nisdonism teaches followers to approach death with serenity. Grief should be tempered with acceptance, mourning should be balanced with reverence, and the inevitable passage of life should be seen as part of the eternal and impartial flow that Nisdon governs. Followers seek inner peace in the knowledge that death is not to be feared but embraced as a passage to the unknown.

These tenets guide followers of Nisdon in maintaining a life of balance, reverence, and acceptance, with an understanding that life and death are eternal partners in the cosmic order, both deserving of respect and neutrality.

Divine Goals & Aspirations

The goals of Nisdon, the True Neutral God of the Underworld, are both subtle and profound, reflecting his position as the guardian of the balance between life and death. While his divine purposes are not always fully understood by mortals, his actions are guided by an overarching commitment to the impartiality of the cosmic order. Some of these goals are openly known to his followers, while others remain hidden, deeply intertwined with the mysterious and enigmatic nature of the afterlife and the forces governing existence.

Known Goals of Nisdon

1. Maintain the Balance Between Life and Death: Nisdon's most fundamental goal is to preserve the cosmic balance between life and death. He ensures that the souls of the departed pass through the threshold into the afterlife without bias or favor, whether they are virtuous or wicked. His impartial nature requires that he governs the transition with serene neutrality, maintaining equilibrium in the universe.
2. Guide Souls Through the Afterlife: Nisdon seeks to guide all souls on their journey beyond the mortal realm. He does not intervene in the actions of the living but ensures that those who pass into the afterlife do so with dignity and without judgment. His realm serves as a place of transition and reflection, where souls can rest, process, and move on to their final destinations according to their path.
3. Provide Comfort and Solace to the Grieving: While Nisdon does not intervene directly in the lives of the living, his followers are called upon to offer comfort to those mourning the loss of loved ones. Nisdon’s influence ensures that his faith provides solace to the grieving, guiding them to accept mortality as part of the natural order, helping them find peace even in the face of loss.
4. Encourage Acceptance of Mortality: Nisdon's teachings emphasize acceptance of death as a natural and inevitable part of existence. He seeks to help mortals live with the understanding that death should not be feared or avoided, but embraced as a necessary transition. This fosters a more harmonious and balanced approach to life, free from undue obsession with death or the afterlife.

Secret Goals of Nisdon

1. Prevent the Disturbance of the Afterlife’s Natural Order: While his role as a god of neutrality prevents him from directly interfering in mortal affairs, Nisdon's true secret goal may be to prevent forces, both divine and mortal, from disrupting the natural order of death. This could involve preventing ascended deities, powerful mortals, or malevolent forces from manipulating the afterlife for their own ends. There may be subtle actions Nisdon takes behind the scenes to maintain the sanctity of death’s impartiality and the rightful passage of souls.
2. Preserve the Cosmic Equilibrium from Intrusions: Nisdon’s existence is predicated on the balance between life and death, and he may quietly work to ensure that no force tips the cosmic scales in favor of life or death. This could involve preventing the rise of new gods or the manipulation of divine power that might disrupt the natural flow. His interventions in the material world are likely rare and imperceptible, designed to correct minor imbalances that could lead to greater chaos.
3. Guide the Souls of the Wicked and Virtuous Alike Toward Understanding: It is possible that Nisdon’s secret goal is to use his domain to help all souls, whether good or evil, to ultimately understand the consequences of their actions during their lives. By maintaining his neutrality and providing them with a tranquil place to reflect, Nisdon may be guiding these souls toward a deeper understanding of their own lives, ensuring that all who pass through his realm achieve a sense of closure before their final destination.
4. Manipulate the Flow of Time and Death for Greater Cosmic Balance: As the true arbiter of life and death, Nisdon may possess a deeper understanding of the forces of time and existence, using his influence to adjust the timing and flow of death in a way that preserves balance. He may subtly alter when certain souls pass on or manipulate their transitions in ways that remain hidden to mortals but are crucial for ensuring that the cosmic balance between life and death is maintained over long periods.
5. Prevent Immortality from Disturbing the Natural Flow: Immortality—whether granted through divine intervention, arcane means, or unnatural forces—may be something Nisdon seeks to suppress or balance. The unnatural extension of life could disturb the flow of souls and the balance of the afterlife, and Nisdon might secretly work to ensure that immortality remains a rare and exceptional gift, one that does not interrupt the natural cycle.

Conclusion

While the known goals of Nisdon are clear and grounded in his role as the impartial god of death, the secret goals he pursues reflect a deeper, more enigmatic function within the cosmos. These hidden objectives involve maintaining the integrity of the afterlife, preventing disruptions to the natural order, and ensuring the balance between life and death remains undisturbed. His actions, though often imperceptible to mortals, are part of a broader divine scheme to maintain the equilibrium of the universe, with a focus on the silent, unseen forces that guide existence.

Divine Classification

God

Religions

• Nisdonism

Church/Cult

Nisdonism