Burial Rites in Eldonia

Burial Rituals in Eldonia: A Study of Cultural Diversity in Death Practices Death, a universal inevitability, is approached with a variety of rituals and customs that reflect the beliefs, values, and traditions of different societies. In Eldonia, these practices are particularly varied, offering a rich veriety of cultural expressions in the face of mortality.
Mara Worshipers: Forest Burials
Among the followers of Mara, the practice of forest burials is prevalent. This ritual involves interring the deceased in the heart of the forest, symbolizing a return to nature and the cycle of life. The serene and natural setting of the forest is chosen to provide a peaceful final resting place, in harmony with the environment. Gaelorians and Teutonian peoples accross eldonia who still practice the old ways will host a service of sorts to burry the dead in the forrests of the dark contitnent.
The Old Faith
Adherents of the Old Faith adhere to a ritual that involves careful preparation of the body with linen wrappings. This is followed by cremation, where the body is burned along with valued possessions. This practice signifies a purification process and a release of the spirit from the physical realm, with personal belongings accompanying the deceased in their journey to the afterlife.
Sea Burials and Flaming Boats
In Bjornheimer culture, a striking ritual is observed for the wealthy and esteemed individuals. Their bodies are placed on boats, which are then set ablaze and sometimes set adrift on temporary rafts. This dramatic sea burial symbolizes a majestic and powerful voyage into the afterlife, reflecting the community's deep connection with the sea. Bjornheimer myths tells of an afterlife of mists, where Wodyn tests the souls of those who died, and of sailing to his misterious Vallaha, where the mighty await a grand confrontation with The Hells. Intrestingly Hellen cultures also observe simular nautical themes though they bury thier dead at sea by sinking them to the bottom of the ocean in weighted boxes, not by needlessly buring a boat.
The Aetern People: Mausoleum Interments
The Aetern people practice burial in mausoleums and graveyards ensuring that their dead are not only preserved but also honored with a monumental structure, even if it is a small wooden box. Every burial is accompanied by ritualistic preparations including embalming, emphasizing respect and remembrance. This practice reflects a belief in the enduring presence of ancestors and the importance of legacy. Most large cities with Aetern presence in them have graveyards with stone buildings to hold the dead. Many Eldonians who have converted to the Orthodox Azraen Faith will adopt these customs.
6. Conclusion The burial rituals in Eldonia are a testament to the cultural richness and diversity of its people. Each practice, whether it be a serene forest burial, a fiery sea send-off, or an eternal rest in a mausoleum, carries deep symbolic meaning and reflects the beliefs and values of the community it originates from.
Study Written by Galden Fjendein of the Order of Keepers Lyrfaen Spire

Type

Study, Historical