Prophecy and divination

The people of Helerin, whether in courts, villages, or wandering shrines, believe in the power of prophecy. Whether born of divine revelation, read in the stars, or interpreted from the patterns of the natural world, these insights are viewed as glimpses into the intentions of the gods. Prophecy holds sway over the powerful and the humble alike, guiding decisions, shaping culture, and offering hope, or warning, when reason fails.
Whether these glimpses into the divine are true or merely the product of mortal imagination, they are a vital part of the Helerin's culture. While prophecy may be flawed, disputed, or simply superstition, its power in society is undeniable.

Divine Revelation

Prophets in Helerin are believed to be chosen by the gods, their minds opened to brief glimpses of divine will. This form of prophecy is intrinsically linked to the Gods of the Heavens: Balcosh, Frenar, and Lessada.

Lessada

Lessada, goddess of the moon and dreams, is the most commonly associated with prophetic visions. Dreams or night terrors, sudden waking revelations, and visions granted in ritual sleep are all seen as her gifts.

Frenar

Frenar, the guardian of the stars and keeper of records, is revered by those who claim to read portents of death, destiny, and fate. Frenar’s influence is often seen in long-term prophecies or cryptic, historical riddles.

Balcosh

Balcosh, as the ruler of the sun, brings clarity and harsh illumination. Prophets invoking Balcosh are rare but respected, often warning of catastrophes or proclaiming moral truths.
Priests may serve as intermediaries for these gods, but divine revelation can fall upon anyone: commoner or noble, pious or profane. Whether the visions are real or a trick of the mind is a matter of debate, but the belief in their significance shapes decisions and actions across Helerin.

Augury

Augury in Helerin encompasses a variety of practices used to seek guidance from the gods by interpreting natural signs. This is a craft of observation and interpretation, rather than revelation.

Augury is particularly common in rural communities, before major undertakings or in times of crisis. It is not seen as certain truth, but as advice to weigh when making decisions.
Signs may be found almost anywhere, from the flight of birds to the movement of flames. Many augurs cast stones or sticks before interpreting the patterns in which they fall.
See also: Augury

Astrology

Astrology in Helerin focuses on interpreting the position and movements of stars, planets, and celestial events to reveal future events. In addition, the position of the stars at birth are regarded as important indicators of an individual's future personality and fate.

Astrologers chart the heavens, assigning meanings to constellations, and offer predictions about newborn children. Each of the 13 signs of the heavens belongs to one of Helerin's gods, and is associated to personality traits, talents, flaws, and destinies.
Predictions about the future are often broad - such as foretelling a year of strife - but may also be specific, such as advising on a child’s name or a merchant’s journey.
Astrology in Helerin is a blend of genuine skill in observation and interpretation, and a web of beliefs that may hold no true predictive power. Its role in shaping perceptions and decisions is profound, and astrologers can hold significant influence. Astrological lore is deeply entwined with Helerin’s culture. Some rulers employ court astrologers to guide decisions, while common folk might consult a village seer to learn if their child is born under a "fortunate sign."
See also: Astrology