Eshara (/ɛˈʃɑːrə/ [Ghulam: /ˈɣuːlɑːm/])
The Enlightened Ones
In the shadow of the Tatharian Empire's grandeur, there exists a people known to themselves as the "Eshara," a term in their tongue that translates to "The Enlightened Ones." However, the Tatharians, in their imperial arrogance, have branded them with the derogatory exonym "Ghulam," a term that, in the Tatharian language, signifies "The Subjugated."
The Eshara, a people of profound wisdom and spiritual depth, have long held a culture that is antithetical to the Tatharian ethos of conquest and subjugation. Their society, rooted in the principles of harmony, mutual respect, and the pursuit of knowledge, stands as a stark contrast to the Tatharian Empire's relentless pursuit of power and territorial expansion. The Eshara's emphasis on intellectual and spiritual growth over material wealth and military prowess has led to their marginalization and exploitation under Tatharian rule.
The term "Ghulam," imposed upon the Eshara by the Tatharians, is a cruel mockery of their culture and values. In the Tatharian tongue, "Ghulam" implies subservience and inferiority, a label meant to belittle the Eshara's peaceful nature and their refusal to partake in the Tatharian's warlike endeavors. This derogatory exonym serves as a constant reminder of the Eshara's subjugated status within the Tatharian Empire, a tool of psychological oppression designed to undermine their cultural identity and self-worth.
The Eshara, despite the hardships they endure under Tatharian rule, remain steadfast in their cultural identity and values. They continue to refer to themselves by their endonym, "The Enlightened Ones," a testament to their resilience and their unwavering commitment to their principles. The Eshara's struggle for recognition and respect within the Tatharian Empire is a poignant reminder of the destructive power of cultural imperialism and the enduring spirit of those who resist it.
Culture
Culture and cultural heritage
The parallels between the Eshara and the people of Videha are deeply rooted in their shared reverence for Kano, a figure who embodies the spiritual aspirations of both cultures. Kano, originally named Viswamitra Talavalakar, was born to an Eshara mother and a Videha father, making him a bridge between the two cultures.
Kano's teachings, known as the Path of Eight Virtues, reflect the shared values of the Eshara and Videha people. His emphasis on compassion, nobility, charity, kindness, mindfulness, and bliss resonates with the Eshara's belief in the inherent dignity of all beings and the Videha's adherence to the teachings of Mahadeva. Kano's journey from a young prince to a wise master of the universe mirrors the spiritual journey undertaken by followers of both cultures, a journey towards enlightenment and self-realization.
The Eshara's "Food Cart" culture finds a parallel in the Videha's communal gatherings and shared meals. Just as the Eshara chefs prepare food with devotion and accept donations in the name of Kano, the people of Videha come together to share food and drink as a form of spiritual communion. These communal meals, whether served from a humble food cart or shared in a family home, are seen as a blessing and a testament to the community's shared faith and mutual support.
The regimented etiquette of the Eshara also finds a counterpart in the Videha's adherence to the teachings of Mahadeva. Both cultures place a high value on respect, kindness, and mindful communication. Whether it's the Eshara's ritual of placing their right hand over their heart and bowing slightly upon meeting, or the Videha's practice of careful listening and thoughtful responses during conversation, both cultures demonstrate a deep commitment to mutual respect and understanding.
The unspoken social mandate of the Eshara, their commitment to the teachings of Kano, and their respect for all life forms, resonate with the Videha's reverence for Mahadeva and their belief in the sacredness of all life. Both cultures believe in the interconnectedness of all beings and strive to live in harmony with the natural world. This shared belief is reflected in their sustainable practices, their non-violent methods of food collection, and their respect for the environment.
Shared customary codes and values
In the vast tapestry of cultures under the Tatharian Empire's dominion, the Eshara, or "The Enlightened Ones," stand as a beacon of spiritual resilience and intellectual profundity. Their societal ethos, unstructured yet deeply ingrained, is a testament to their unwavering commitment to the teachings of Kano, their revered deity and spiritual guide.
The Eshara's customary codes, though unspoken, are as clear as the crystal waters of their sacred springs. They believe in the inherent dignity of all beings, a principle derived from Kano's teachings of compassion and nobility. This belief manifests in their daily interactions, where respect and kindness are offered freely, regardless of one's status or origin. The Eshara see the spark of the divine in every individual, a reflection of Kano's own journey from prince to universal master.
The Eshara also hold a deep respect for the natural world, viewing it as a manifestation of the divine. They believe that all life is interconnected, a concept reflected in their sustainable practices and harmonious coexistence with the environment. The Eshara's commitment to environmental stewardship is a testament to their understanding of the delicate balance of the universe, a balance they strive to maintain in their daily lives.
Despite the hardships they endure under Tatharian rule, the Eshara remain steadfast in their cultural identity and values. Their unspoken social mandate, rooted in Kano's teachings, serves as a guiding light in the face of adversity. It is a testament to their resilience, their unwavering faith, and their enduring quest for enlightenment. In the grand theatre of the Tatharian Empire, the Eshara stand as a poignant reminder of the power of spiritual resilience and the enduring spirit of those who resist cultural subjugation.
Their shared values are woven into the very fabric of their society, as intricate and enduring as the ancient tapestries that adorn their sacred halls. The Eshara value wisdom above all else, a testament to their devotion to Kano's Path of Eight Virtues. They believe that true enlightenment comes from the pursuit of knowledge and the cultivation of the mind. This reverence for wisdom is evident in their educational practices, where every child is encouraged to seek knowledge and question the world around them.
The Eshara also hold a deep respect for the natural world, viewing it as a manifestation of the divine. They believe that all life is interconnected, a concept reflected in their sustainable practices and harmonious coexistence with the environment. The Eshara's commitment to environmental stewardship is a testament to their understanding of the delicate balance of the universe, a balance they strive to maintain in their daily lives.
Common Etiquette rules
In contrast to the unspoken, yet deeply ingrained, social mandate of the Eshara, their etiquette is a meticulously crafted dance of respect and mindfulness, a testament to their commitment to harmony and mutual respect. This etiquette, as regimented as the Celestial bodies in their ordained paths, is taught systematically from the earliest age, forming an integral part of the Eshara's cultural identity.
The Eshara's greeting, for instance, is a ritual of profound significance. Upon meeting, they place their right hand over their heart and bow slightly, a gesture symbolizing the recognition of the divine spark within each individual. This act of acknowledgment serves as a reminder of their shared humanity and the interconnectedness of all beings.
Conversation among the Eshara is a delicate art, marked by careful listening and thoughtful responses. Interruptions are considered a grave breach of etiquette, a disruption of the harmonious exchange of ideas. The Eshara believe that every voice holds a piece of the universal truth, and thus, every voice deserves to be heard.
In the realm of hospitality, the Eshara's etiquette is equally meticulous. A guest in an Eshara home is treated with the utmost respect and kindness, a reflection of their belief in the sacredness of all life. The act of sharing food and drink is seen as a spiritual communion, a moment of unity that transcends the boundaries of the self.
Even in their attire, the Eshara adhere to a strict code of etiquette. Their clothing, often adorned with symbols representing Kano's Path of Eight Virtues, serves as a visual testament to their spiritual journey. Simplicity and modesty are valued above ostentation, reflecting their belief in the insignificance of material wealth in the pursuit of enlightenment.
In every aspect of their lives, the Eshara's regimented etiquette serves as a mirror to their deeply held values. It is a dance of respect and mindfulness, a testament to their commitment to harmony, mutual respect, and the pursuit of enlightenment. Despite the rigidity of their etiquette, it is not a burden to the Eshara, but rather a source of comfort and unity, a beacon guiding them on their shared journey towards enlightenment.
Foods & Cuisine
The Eshara, in their pursuit of harmony with the natural world, have cultivated a cuisine as vibrant and diverse as the landscapes they inhabit. Their food, a symphony of flavors and colors, is a testament to their commitment to sustainable and non-violent practices. The Eshara's culinary tradition, known in Tatharia as the "Food Cart" culture, is a unique blend of spirituality, community, and gastronomy.
The "Food Cart" culture is a cornerstone of Eshara society. Eshara chefs, revered as spiritual guides, pull their own food carts through the streets of Tatharia. These humble carts, adorned with symbols of Kano and filled with the tantalizing aroma of spices, are a familiar sight in the bustling streets. The chefs, despite their wobbling, tired arms, prepare food with a devotion that is as much a part of the dish as the ingredients themselves.
These chefs do not sell their food for profit. Instead, they accept donations in the name of Kano, a practice that embodies their belief in charity and communal sharing. The food they prepare is considered a blessing from Kano, a spiritual nourishment that feeds the soul as much as the body.
The Eshara's diet is primarily plant-based, a reflection of their respect for all life forms. They have mastered the art of extracting flavors from the simplest of ingredients, creating dishes that are both nourishing and flavorful. Their cuisine is known for its robust spices and colorful curries, each dish a celebration of the earth's bounty.
The Eshara's approach to food collection is as unique as their cuisine. They have developed non-violent methods of gathering ingredients from monsters, a practice that reflects their belief in the sacredness of all life. This practice involves luring monsters with offerings of food and then carefully collecting shed scales, feathers, or other non-lethal byproducts. These ingredients, imbued with magical properties, are then used to create dishes that are as enchanting as they are delicious.
Common Taboos
Uniquely among Eshara followers of Kano, there exist four inviolable taboos, each a testament to their unwavering commitment to the teachings of their revered deity. These prohibitions, etched into the very soul of their society, serve as guiding principles, shaping their interactions with the world and each other.
Do Not Kill
The first of these taboos is the prohibition against killing. The Eshara, in their profound respect for all life, abstain from taking life in any form. Even in self-defense, the Eshara would rather embrace martyrdom than violate this sacred principle. However, an exception is made when the life of another is in peril. In such instances, violence may be employed, not out of malice, but out of a deep-seated duty to protect the sanctity of life. Yet, even in this, the most devout among them would abstain, choosing instead to interpose themselves between the threat and the threatened, a living shield bearing testament to their faith.Do Not Steal
The second taboo is against theft. The Eshara, viewing material possessions as transient and insignificant, see no value in the act of stealing. This prohibition carries with it an implicit understanding that no Eshara would withhold something they possess from one who covets it. To them, property is a fleeting concept, one that holds no sway over their hearts. When the Tatharians arrived, they found a people without the concept of land ownership, a people who shared freely and lived in harmony with the land rather than seeking to possess it.Do Not Be Inhospitable
The third taboo is against inhospitality, a prohibition that the Eshara hold in the highest regard. To them, hospitality is not merely a social obligation, but a sacred duty. Every guest is seen as a manifestation of the divine, deserving of the utmost respect and kindness. To turn away a guest, to deny them shelter or sustenance, is seen as a grave offense, a violation of their sacred duty to extend kindness and compassion to all.Do Not Be Violent
The final taboo is against violence. The Eshara, in their pursuit of harmony and peace, abstain from all forms of violence. Even in the face of aggression, they would choose to respond with compassion and understanding rather than retaliation. However, as with the prohibition against killing, an exception is made when the safety of others is at stake. In such instances, the Eshara may resort to violence, not as an act of aggression, but as a necessary measure to protect those who cannot protect themselves. Remarkably, the taboos of the Eshara are not mere prohibitions, but guiding principles that shape their interactions with the world and each other. They are a testament to their commitment to the teachings of Kano, their reverence for all life, and their pursuit of harmony and peace. In the grand tapestry of cultures under the Tatharian Empire's dominion, the Eshara stand as a beacon of spiritual resilience and moral integrity.
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