Teiva, Goddess of Nature
From the gnashing teeth of wild beasts to the vibrant bloom of spring flowers, from the dark, unyielding storms that lash the land to the gentle touch of morning dew, from the feast of predators to the soothing whisper of the wind through ancient oaks, nature's fury and relentless decay are my gifts. Witness the brisk chill of winter, the river’s unstoppable flood leaving ruin in its wake, and the serene beauty of a sunset over a tranquil forest. In these contrasts, you find the true essence of life: a dance of chaos and harmony, destruction and creation. Only by embracing the totality of my nature can one truly understand the profound beauty and balance that lies within
Divine Domains
Nature and the Hunt
Teiva is primarily worshipped as the Goddess of Nature and Mistress of the Hunt. She embodies the wild, untamed aspects of the natural world, overseeing forests, animals, and the primal instincts of survival. Hunting, in particular, is a sacred activity under her domain, seen as a communion with the goddess where hunters invoke her favor to track and kill their prey. Every hunt is a dance of life and death, a sacred exchange where the hunter honors Teiva by making full use of their kill, ensuring that no part of the animal goes to waste.Seasons and Life
Teiva also governs the cyclical nature of the seasons and the life that flourishes within them. She is hailed for her influence over the natural world's rhythms, from the blooming of spring to the dormancy of winter. Worshippers celebrate the changing seasons with rituals that honor Teiva's role in the birth, growth, and decay of all living things. Her dominion over life encompasses not only the animals and plants but also the intricate balance of ecosystems, ensuring that life continues in the natural wilds.Storms and Disasters
As the harbinger of nature's wrath, Teiva's domain extends to storms and natural disasters. She is seen as a force of destruction and renewal, embodying the fierce and unpredictable power of the natural world. People pray to Teiva for protection against natural calamities such as eruptions, earthquakes, storms, and tsunamis. Her role in this domain is both feared and respected, as she can bring both devastation and the opportunity for new growth and change.Dominion
Teiva holds unparalleled dominion over the domains of Nature and the Hunt. Within these realms, she exercises supreme authority, orchestrating the intricate balance of the natural world. While deities like Inx and Xal operate within the broader context of nature through their domains of growth and decay, they do so under the overarching influence of Teiva. Growth and decay are natural facets under her expansive reach. Similarly, Aspects of certain deities and Avatars such as Lhyla and Kün may also play roles within her domain but do not challenge her supremacy. Teiva rarely encounters conflicts within this domain, as her influence is universally acknowledged and respected. She ensures that the cycle of life, from the hunt to the natural demise, is honored and preserved.
The domain of Seasons is predominantly under Teiva's control, with few divine beings influencing this aspect of the natural world. The seasons, as expressions of nature's rhythms, fall squarely within her purview, allowing her to wield near-absolute power over their progression. However, the domain of Life presents a more complex scenario. While Teiva is potent in her influence over plants and animals, life as a major domain involves numerous deities with varying degrees of control. Teiva's dominion here is significant but not absolute, particularly when it comes to life forms outside her primary focus on flora and fauna.
Teiva's dominion over Storms and Disasters is comprehensive, positioning her as a primary force behind these natural phenomena. Though she is not a deity of destruction per se, her control over the forces of nature allows her to wield storms and disasters with precision. Some gods have equivalent dominon in the domain of storms such as Nagaká. Other gods may dabble in either domains, often deities of destruction or chaos, seeking to utilize storms and disasters for their purposes. Depending on their intentions, these incursions can lead to conflicts. Teiva stands as a guardian of nature's wrath, ensuring that such forces are unleashed with purpose and not wantonly. Her ability to command these elements deters many would-be challengers, maintaining her dominant position.
Artifacts
Casad's Spear
The Spear is a legendary weapon imbued with the soul of a hero who perished in a monumental battle. It is said to be able to invoke the wrath of Teiva's tempests, summoning storms to aid its wielder. The spear is sealed within an ancient tree waiting for a worthy champion to claim its power.Amulet of the Hunt
The Amulet was worn by Sister Chi, the first 'Sister of the Hunt,' and is now worn by the current titleholder. This amulet is the ultimate symbol of Teiva, representing her divine favor. Though its specific powers or blessings are not recorded, it is revered as a powerful emblem of devotion and authority within the faith.Heart of the Wilds
The pendant was created by a poor boy who was cast into the wilderness after contracting a lethal disease. Using roots, he fashioned a band to hang a small chunk of wood inscribed with Teiva's symbol. The boy's deep devotion moved Teiva, and she embraced his spirit after his death. The Heart of the Wilds is said to embody the boy's unwavering faith, empowering its wearer to bear Teiva's symbol with courage and resilience against her enemies.Shield of the Great Tree
The Shield was crafted from the bark of the largest tree in Teiva's realm. Renowned for its incredible strength and lightness, it is said to be sturdier than a mountain and lighter than the wind. The shield possesses the extraordinary ability to summon the forces of nature to aid its wielder, providing unmatched protection and support in times of need.Holy Books & Codes
The Code of Teiva
Significance
The "Code of Teiva" is the foundational text for followers of Teiva, written by Sister Chi, the first 'Sister of the Hunt' and a prophet. This code outlines the tenets and expectations that Teiva has for her devotees, guiding them in living a life in harmony with nature.Content
The Code details principles such as respecting nature, the sanctity of the hunt, and the importance of using every part of a kill. It emphasizes reverence for the natural world, instructing followers to protect and sustain it. The text serves as a daily guide for living according to Teiva's values, ensuring that her principles are reflected in the actions of her adherents.Myth of Casad, The Storm Slayer
Significance
This myth is a key narrative within Teiva's worship, illustrating the conflict between Casad, The Storm Slayer, and Onnu, Lord of Tempest. It highlights the theme of sacrifice and the enduring struggle to protect nature from forces that seek to destroy it.Content
Contrary to what the name suggests, Casad was not a slayer of storms but the killing blow to Onnu, Lord of Tempest, and one of Teiva's aspects. The myth recounts Casad's battle against Onnu, who sought to uproot and destroy all manner of nature in revolt against Teiva. The tale describes the creation of the artifact known as Casad's Epitaph, a spear imbued with a portion of Casad's soul after his sacrificial victory. This spear remains sealed within Casad's Tree, an ancient oak hidden deep within an unknown forest. The myth serves as a reminder of the power of nature and the sacrifices made to protect it, as well as hinting at the nature of the spear and it's power secreted away in the wilds.The First Storm
Significance
This myth explains the origin of the first storm, portraying it as a life-saving event that brought renewal to a dying land. It underscores the dual nature of storms as both destructive and life-giving forces.Content
In a time long forgotten, the earth iteself was on the brink of becoming a barren wasteland. The myth tells of how Teiva manifested the first storm, a powerful torrent of rain and winds, to replenish the land and restore it to a state of natural growth. This narrative highlights the necessity of storms for the sustenance and rejuvenation of nature, demonstrating that even destructive forces have their place in maintaining the balance of the natural world.Divine Symbols & Sigils
Symbols
The falcon is one of Teiva's primary symbols. When a falcon lands on someone’s shoulder or arm without prior training or meeting, it is seen as an omen from Teiva herself, signifying her favor or hope for that person. It is also a sign of displeasure if falcons begin to act out of rhythm for no reason. Agnostics and atheists are often attacked by Falcons, and attempting to attack them back is a surefire way to call down her wrath.
A knocked bow and arrow, without the string being pulled back, is a common symbol representing intent and readiness. Hunters often leave their bow and arrow in this position when storing it and pray before removing the arrow from its resting place.
When winds cut through a valley and whistle between the terrain, it is believed to be Teiva’s voice, guiding weary travelers or serving as a gentle reminder of her omnipresence. Hearing such things, especially on a long journey or while lost, has spurred many to continue their trek against the odds, knowing nature stood with them.
Groves, clearings, woods, and other small, isolated areas of nature are sacred places associated with Teiva. Worshippers often go to these secluded natural sanctuaries to complete rituals and pray, seeking safety from the world beyond. It is said that once worshippers of Teiva bless these places, they become eternally sanctified. Damaging the flora or fauna in these areas or disregarding their status as safe havens is a grave offense that is common enough, and many attribute cloudburst and sudden lightning to such an offense.
Untrained animals approaching someone without fear and even finding comfort in the person. A path appearing where it hadn't once been to guide a wanderer. The rain bringing sustenance to the thirsty and unfertile lands of a fearing farmer. These are all signs of the natural world attuning to an individual, a sign of respect from above and from the earth. Earning such recognition in the natural world is rare, difficult, and requires a level of sacrifice most couldn't live with.
Cloud bursts are seen as manifestations of the unpredictability of nature and the raw, untamed power of the wild. While they can bring much-needed water to the land, nourishing plants and streams, they can also signify Teiva's displeasure or a reminder of her control over the natural world. To her followers, a cloud burst might be interpreted as a blessing in disguise or a warning to respect the delicate balance of nature; cloud bursts can bring with them lightning and thunder, which makes the presence of a warning very obvious.
Sigils
The oak tree sigil is the most direct and common sign of worship, commonly found in temples and religious texts. The knocked bow and arrow is a popular sigil among hunters, often carved into weapons or tattooed on their bodies. This sigil represents the hunter’s readiness and respect for the natural order, embodying the balance of intent and patience. Wind patterns are used in garments and decorations; these patterns make it very easy to spot those under her guidance from afar. Worshippers may also use water, cloud, and earthy patterns to have the same effect. A cloud and bolt sigil is a complex symbol, often seen as a bad omen unless explicitly guided by Teiva. This sigil is associated with Onnu, the Lord of the Tempest, who betrayed Teiva. Using this symbol without divine instruction is seen as invoking Onnu instead of Teiva, branding the user a heretic.
Tenets of Faith
- Respect the Balance of Nature: Live in harmony with the natural world, understanding that all life is interconnected. Strive to maintain the balance between growth and decay, predator and prey, life and death.
- Use Every Part of a Kill: Honor the life taken by utilizing every part of an animal. Waste nothing and show respect for the creature’s sacrifice by making full use of its body.
- Pray During Gentle Rains: Offer prayers and thanks during drizzles and light rains, recognizing how quickly these gentle showers can turn into powerful torrents. Understand the dual nature of rain as both life-giving and potentially destructive.
- Preserve Sacred Groves: Protect groves, clearings, and other isolated natural sanctuaries. These places are blessed by Teiva and serve as havens of safety and peace. Any harm done to these areas is a grave offense.
- Revere the Wilds: Appreciate and respect the untamed aspects of nature. Whether it’s the dense forest, the open plains, or the rugged mountains, each environment has its own beauty and challenges.
- Give Thanks for Nature’s Bounty: Regularly give thanks for the food, water, and shelter provided by the natural world. Show gratitude through offerings, rituals, and acts of conservation.
- Embrace the Seasons: Accept and adapt to the changing seasons, understanding that each brings its own gifts and hardships. Celebrate the cycles of growth, harvest, decay, and rebirth.
- Bury the Remains: After using the necessary parts of a kill, bury the remains to return them to the earth, ensuring that nothing is wasted.
- Heed Nature’s Omens: Pay attention to the signs and omens in the natural world, whether it’s the sudden appearance of an animal, the shape of the clouds, or the direction of the wind. These signs are Teiva’s way of communicating her will.
- Protect Flora and Fauna: Safeguard the plants and animals within your care. Understand that each has a role to play in the ecosystem and that their well-being is crucial to the health of the natural world.
Holidays
Prime of Spring
The Prime of Spring is a celebration of renewal and rebirth. It marks the peak of the season when new life is most vibrant.Traditions and Customs
Planting ceremonies, where seeds are sown in the ground to symbolize new beginnings. Community clean-ups and garden preparations are common, emphasizing the clearing away of winter's remnants to make way for fresh growth.Experiences and Events
Flower festivals and parades featuring colorful blooms and elaborate floral arrangements. Storytelling sessions about the myths of creation and renewal associated with Teiva.Food
Fresh greens, spring vegetables, and dishes featuring young herbs. Traditional meals include spring salads, herbal teas, and dishes made with the intent of celebrating the planting season.Prime of Summer
The Prime of Summer is a time of abundance and celebration of life at its peak.Traditions and Customs
Bonfires and feasts to celebrate the warmth and light of the season. Dancing such as Lekking and music performances are held to honor Teiva's blessings and find heart under the summer sky.Experiences and Events
Open-air markets and fairs showcasing local produce and crafts. Vibrant dancing and competitions. competive showcases of skill and prowess such asFood
A variety of fresh fruits, grilled vegetables, and meats. Popular dishes include fruit salads, roasted corn, and barbecued meats, along with refreshing drinks made from summer fruits.Prime of Autumn
The Prime of Autumn is a festival of gratitude and preparation for the coming winter.Traditions and Customs
Harvest rituals where communities gather to collect and store the bounty of the season. Thanks are given to Teiva for the abundant harvest, and offerings are made.Experiences and Events
This prime features Rain Catching, Leaf Branding,Wind Trading, and Tree Carving. As well as storytelling and singing about the cycles of life and the importance of preparing for the winter.Food
Hearty dishes made from root vegetables, grains, and preserved foods. Traditional meals include stews, pies, and baked goods featuring autumn fruits and spices like apples, pumpkins, and cinnamon.Prime of Winter
The Prime of Winter is a time of reflection and reverence for the endurance and stillness of the season.Traditions and Customs
Quiet meditation and reflection on the past year. Communal gatherings around the hearth to share stories and warmth. As well as Snow Hunting and rabbit chasing in snowy regions.Experiences and Events
Candlelit ceremonies and night-time vigils to honor the stillness and introspection of winter. Community feasts where preserved foods and winter staples are shared.Food
Comforting and warming dishes, such as soups, roasts, and baked goods. Common foods include hearty bread, root vegetable stews, and spiced desserts, often accompanied by mulled drinks and favorably mulled mead.Divine Goals & Aspirations
Teiva's will is to maintain the balance of nature, ensuring that every living thing, from the smallest seed to the mightiest oak, plays its part in the grand cycle of life. Her goal is to preserve the harmony between all elements of the natural world, protecting it from destruction and corruption. She desires for her followers to live in accordance with these principles, respecting the land, the creatures, and the seasons. Teiva seeks to guide us towards a life of sustainability and reverence for the earth, where every action we take is in alignment with the natural order. By doing so, we honor her and contribute to the flourishing of the world she so lovingly governs.
Goddess of Storms
Falcon Above Grace
Mistress of the Hunt
Emissary of the Wind
Goddess of Nature
Storm Bringer
Guardian of the Wilds
Mother of Seasons
Lady of the Forest
Voice of the Wilderness
Keeper of the Sacred Grove
Warden of the Eternal Cycle
Remove these ads. Join the Worldbuilders Guild
Comments