The Pillar of Mind

“All forms of curiosity are encouraged, but only the truly wise know when not to pursue an answer.”

– I. Bruhm, 617 IK

The Pillar of Mind is a denomination of the Three Pillars that focuses on education, discovery, and scholarly enlightenment. This branch of the faith was founded by I. Karth at the beginning of Il e’Krest. This sets it apart from the other two Pillars, founded by L. Castell.
The Pillar of Mind emphasizes the importance of curiosity and the pursuit of knowledge, claiming that the more someone understands the world around them, the more they are able to understand themselves. The pillar’s core belief is that "Knowledge is freedom," and that through intellectual pursuits, individuals can break free from ignorance, superstition, and dogma.

Beliefs

Knowledge is freedom. Through logic, reason, and understanding, one can discover the path to a life of meaning and purpose.

The Pillar of Mind teaches that the universe is a rational and orderly place, and that malken have the capacity to understand and appreciate this order. Through the use of logic, reason, and experimentation, individuals can discover the truth about themselves, the world, and their place in it.
The Pillar of Mind also emphasizes the importance of critical thinking and skepticism. It teaches that individuals should not blindly accept beliefs or dogmas, but should instead question and examine them carefully before accepting them as true.

Tenets

• Seek knowledge and understanding in all things.
• Embrace logic and reason as tools for uncovering the truth.
• Question everything and never accept dogma or superstition.
• Value critical thinking and open-minded inquiry.
• Respect the rights and beliefs of others, even if they differ from your own.

Taboos

• Ignorance and superstition
• Lack of common sense
• Blind faith and unquestioning obedience
• Exploiting others through deception or misinformation
• Using knowledge for personal gain or power.

Practices

The Pillar of Mind has no formal rituals or ceremonies. Instead, it encourages its followers to engage in practices that promote intellectual growth and self-understanding. These practices include meditation, research, and discussion.

Organization

The Pillar of Mind follows the same organizational structure as the other pillars, with its own titles for the ranks therein. The term “Student” is used as a catch-all title for Followers of the Pillar of Mind, regardless of rank. Official titles within the pillar are as follows:

1. Student (aspect)
2. Speaker (avatar)
3. Professor (icon)
4. Sage (eidolon)

Ascending the Ranks

As with the other Pillars, the faithful of the Pillar of Mind must prove their devotion to their studies to increase their rank. For students of the Mind, this often comes in the form of making a discovery while afield, developing technology, or publishing some form of scholarly work.

Symbols & Vestments

The crest of the Pillar of Mind is an open eye with a waning moon at its pupil. The eye refers to a pre-era fable of a scholar who gave one of his eyes in exchange for unlimited knowledge.
Pillar of Mind students often wear light, loose fitting robes of purple and silver. As the student rises in rank, their robes are replaced with ones of lighter purple. The transition in color is meant to symbolize the illumination of the student.
Outside of the temple, students are free to wear whatever they wish, but many carry holy symbols in the form of pocket watches and eyeglasses.

Type

Religious, Sect

Parent Organization

The Three Pillars