Post by The Eshva on Dec 6, 2020 5:54:46 GMT
Among the Ishitic faithful, some are called on to serve the Kani more directly, taking up the mantle of Priest. Due to the nature of the Ishitic faith, this term has come to mean many different things depending on the region wherein one practices the faith, with those in the West of Ikhan typically being members of various monasteries and living more simple lives than those in the more cosmopolitan east. They are often tasked with the preservation of temples, shrines, and other holy sites across the nation (and the world, among some overseas communities), alongside their normal duties. These duties include preaching, "communicating" with the Kani, performing rituals, and offering guidance to their congregation, among other things. A notable feature common to all priests are the so-called "Twelve Vows" that they must take, which are as follows:
Ishitic High-Priests are known to, when performing their duties, to wear specially crafted outfits made in the visage of the spirit to whom they have pledged their service. This almost always means wearing a mask that takes the shape of an animal, whether real or legendary, though it is not unheard of for a priest of some spirits to wear a mask that appears as an inanimate object or is painted in colors associated with it. A notable exception to this rule is with the Priesthood of Ishen, who, in keeping with this tradition, take the "appearance" of their patron deity. However, as Ishen's appearance is described as being unknowable to all, the masks they wear consist of a hat and a black veil, with the edge of the hat bearing two raven-like eyes and a silver disc, this representative of the moon and thus the heavens as a whole. The High Priest of Ishen in Ikan (who serves as the de-facto head of the faith) is known to pair this with an eagle's feathers, which represent the sky as well.
As previously stated, the High Priest of Ishen in Ikan serves as the de-facto High Priest of the Ishitic Religion, though such a title was formerly held by the Emperors of Ikhan de jure until the signing of the 1899 Ikhani Constitution.
- Never speak that which is untrue
- Never exact violence upon others
- Never cause harm to the holy sites
- Revere the Emperor
- Never speak ill against the Kani
- Never turn away those in need
- Be kind to all
- Never seek out revenge
- Seek peace in all things
- Seek balance in all things
- Never abandon the faith
- Obey the spirits
As previously stated, the High Priest of Ishen in Ikan serves as the de-facto High Priest of the Ishitic Religion, though such a title was formerly held by the Emperors of Ikhan de jure until the signing of the 1899 Ikhani Constitution.