In the world of Nihm, the perception of divinity takes on a nuanced and unconventional form, diverging from the traditional dichotomies of good and evil that often characterize deities in other realms. Here, gods are not bound by moral absolutes; instead, they are transcendent entities, each presiding over their specific domain, indifferent to human notions of morality. Their concern lies not in the righteousness or malevolence of actions, but in the adherence to the principles and edicts of their realms.
This unique religious landscape means that the gods of Nihm acknowledge and support their followers based solely on the followers' fidelity to the domain's tenets, rather than the moral weight of their deeds. For instance, Netharion, the God of Justice, embodies this principle profoundly. In conflicts where both parties believe fervently in the justness of their cause, Netharion's favor does not tilt towards one side on the basis of an overarching moral judgment. Instead, his support is granted equally to both, for what truly matters in Nihm is the depth of an individual's conviction in their own interpretation of justice.
This approach to divinity fosters a complex tapestry of faith and worship in Nihm, where followers are driven more by personal alignment with a god's domain than by fear of divine retribution or aspiration for moral purity. It creates a world where the lines between right and wrong are blurred, and where the gods serve more as patrons of specific aspects of existence than as arbiters of moral order.
the pantheon extends beyond the five main deities, encompassing a myriad of lesser gods who embody more specific aspects of existence. These lesser gods often emerge from the collective beliefs and desires of the people, each representing a nuanced domain that typically falls under the broader purview of the primary five. Among these, Sulfur stands out as a unique entity, having risen to prominence with the Magic Expansion. Her domain, while initially considered a subset of Rher's realm of Knowledge, has grown so influential that she is on the cusp of being recognized as one of the six main gods. This phenomenon illustrates the dynamic nature of divinity in Nihm, where the power and status of a god can expand in accordance with the fervor and faith of their followers. Although gods like Sulfur are exceptions, their existence underscores the potential for new deities to ascend and join the ranks of the more established pantheon, shaped by the evolving beliefs and values of the people.
The main "5" patron:
Vinushka,
the God of the Nature Domain, embodies the essence of the natural world, overseeing not just the flora and fauna, but the very cycles and fundamental laws that govern life on Nihm. Followers of Vinushka are stewards of the environment, advocating for harmony between civilization and the natural world, and adhering to the principles of sustainability and respect for all living things. Their tenets emphasize living in accordance with the natural order, protecting natural habitats, and valuing the intrinsic beauty and balance of nature.
The five gods are revered for their distinct domains, each wielding considerable influence over the aspects of existence they govern. However, among them, Vinushka holds a place of subtle primacy, recognized by both mortals and deities alike for his overarching domain that encompasses the natural world and its intrinsic cycles of life and death. While the other gods preside over facets of living—knowledge, justice, power, and trade—Vinushka's realm is foundational, underpinning the very fabric of life itself. This inherent connection to the cycles that sustain existence grants Vinushka a reverence as the bedrock upon which the other aspects of life, and thus the other gods' domains, are built.
Vinushka is also the only God known to have strict rules for his followers. For access to his domain, one wouldn't have to try and want to live up to his tenents. Rather, the physical actions of the individual will have to prove their devotion for them to enter his domain.
Thial,
the deity presiding over the Trade Domain, is not only the patron of merchants and artisans but also the guardian of cultural exchange and the equitable flow of wealth. Thial's followers are encouraged to engage in fair trade, ensuring that transactions are mutually beneficial and that wealth circulates to foster prosperity for all. The tenets under Thial promote integrity in business, appreciation for art and culture, and the pursuit of excellence in one's craft, reflecting the god's dual focus on material success and cultural enrichment.
Calithor,
as the God of the Power Domain, represents both physical prowess and the inner strength of spirit and will. This deity values resilience, the determination to face adversities, and the courage to surmount them. Followers of Calithor are often warriors, athletes, and leaders, but also those who show great fortitude in the face of life's trials. The core tenets here revolve around self-improvement, the cultivation of personal strength, and the noble use of power to protect and inspire others.
Rher,
the God of the Knowledge Domain, holds dominion over all forms of learning, wisdom, and insight. This deity's concern extends beyond academic scholarship to include practical wisdom and the savvy needed to navigate the complexities of life. Followers are tasked with the acquisition and preservation of knowledge, valuing truth and enlightenment above all. The tenets of Rher emphasize the importance of education, the pursuit of truth, and the responsibility to share and safeguard knowledge for future generations, recognizing that wisdom in all its forms is the foundation of a progressive society.
All-mer,
the God of the Justice Domain, embodies the principles of justice and moral righteousness as perceived by the individual. All-mer champions the idea that justice is a deeply personal endeavor, rooted in one's own beliefs and experiences. Followers are encouraged to seek justice as they see fit, emphasizing the importance of introspection and personal growth in the quest to understand and enact one's version of justice. The tenets under All-mer stress the betterment of the soul, ethical self-improvement, and the pursuit of a just life as defined by the individual's own moral standards.
Sulfur,
the God of the Magic Domain, is a testament to the dynamic and evolving nature of divinity in Nihm, having ascended to godhood with the Magic Expansion. As a deity born from the collective will and imagination of the people, Sulfur represents the boundless potential of magic and its integral role in shaping reality. Often considered a progeny of Rher, Sulfur's domain is intertwined with the pursuit of knowledge, especially as it pertains to the arcane arts. Her followers are those who delve into the mysteries of magic, seeking to understand and expand the limits of magical theory and practice. The tenets of Sulfur's domain emphasize innovation, the ethical use of magic, and the belief in magic as a force for change and advancement, reflecting her origins in the aspirations and will of the people.
Worship of the Gods:
In the world of Nihm, the pantheon of gods presents a more benevolent and forgiving nature compared to the often capricious and demanding deities of other realms. These gods, while embodying vast and diverse powers, share a common trait of kindness towards their followers, provided they do not blatantly defy the tenets that define each deity's domain.
The populace of Nihm, much like "cultural Christians" in the real world, tends to align with one specific god whose ideals resonate with their personal or community values. This alignment is less about strict adherence to dogma and more about a genuine attempt to embody the principles and virtues championed by their chosen deity. For the average person, this spiritual affiliation assures them a place in the afterlife under the aegis of their patron god, so long as their efforts to live by the god's tenets are sincere. This assurance provides comfort and direction in their daily lives, though it does not necessarily translate to tangible blessings or divine interventions in the mortal realm.
Priests and devout followers, on the other hand, engage in a more intimate and committed relationship with their deity. Through dedicated prayer, ritual, and service, they open themselves to the possibility of direct divine favor. While the gods of Nihm are generally more reserved in their interactions with the mortal world, there are instances where a priest's devout supplications are answered with clerical spells, reflecting the divine power flowing through them. Miracles, though rare, do occur, manifesting as unexplained healings or fortuitous events that defy logical explanation. These moments are seen as direct interventions by the gods, a reward for unwavering faith and devotion. For the layperson, moments of insight, inspiration, or sudden clarity in times of need are often attributed to the subtle guidance of their patron deity. These epiphanies, though not as overt as the miracles experienced by priests, reinforce the belief in a personal connection with the divine, encouraging individuals to continue their spiritual journey with hope and dedication.
The belief system in Nihm holds that while dedicated worship and adherence to a god's tenets do not guarantee immediate blessings or interventions in one's earthly life, they do foster a deeper spiritual connection that can lead to divine favor in subtle and sometimes unexpected ways.
"Chosen"
In the world of Nihm, where the gods are seen as largely benevolent and somewhat distant figures, there exists a phenomenon that underscores their profound connection to the mortal realm: the emergence of the "Chosen." These unique individuals become vessels through which a god can manifest their will and power, often in ways that dramatically alter the course of the Chosen's life. Unlike the traditional pathways to divine favor, becoming a Chosen is not restricted to the most devout or pious followers; rather, it is a calling that can fall upon anyone who embodies the essence of a god's tenets and domains, sometimes even unbeknownst to the individual themselves.
For instance, a warrior who, through sheer resilience and strength of will, overcomes a great personal trauma may find themselves imbued with the powers of Calithor, the God of Power, reflecting their triumph over adversity. Similarly, a scholar who achieves a significant breakthrough in their field, pushing the boundaries of knowledge, might be touched by the essence of Rher, the God of Knowledge, marking them as a beacon of enlightenment in a world hungry for understanding.
While many Chosen are individuals who have vividly embodied a god's tenets through significant deeds or achievements, the selection process is not bound by such accomplishments alone. In their inscrutable wisdom, the gods may bestow their favor upon those who, by outward appearances, have yet to perform any remarkable feats or make groundbreaking discoveries. Instead, these individuals are chosen based on their latent potential, the possibility of greatness that lies within them, waiting to be awakened by divine influence. The gods' decision to choose such individuals speaks to their far-reaching vision, seeing not just what is but what could be. It serves as a reminder that the path to becoming a Chosen is not always paved with grand achievements but can also be a journey of growth, discovery, and fulfillment of latent potential.
These Chosen are endowed with abilities that mirror those of clerics or paladins, granting them not only a profound sense of purpose but also a tangible connection to the divine. The selection process transcends mere worship; it is a recognition of an individual's alignment with a god's core principles, often manifesting in moments of great personal significance or achievement.
Once marked as a Chosen, an individual is expected to further the god's will in the mortal realm, guided by direct epiphanies and visions that reveal the deity's desires. These directives can range from specific tasks that the Chosen is destined to accomplish, perhaps years down the line, to more overarching goals that shape their entire life's journey. The relationship between a Chosen and their patron deity is deeply personal and often marked by a heightened sense of duty and destiny.
However, this divine favor is not without its expectations. The gods, while granting the Chosen significant powers and insights, also hold them to a higher standard. Deviation from a god's tenets or a willful disregard for their domains can lead to various forms of divine retribution. This punishment is not merely a consequence of disobedience but a reminder of the sacred bond between the Chosen and the deity, a bond built on mutual respect and the fulfillment of divine principles. Becoming a Chosen does not strip an individual of their free will; rather, it adds a layer of heavy expectations onto the person.