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{{Cosmoria}} |
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Throughout history, especially amongst primitive civilizations, a certain fear pervades society, the fear of nature itself. In a desperate attempt to gain influence over an otherwise terrifying and uncaring world, they develop gods and religious rituals. As civilizations gain control over their home worlds, often time gaining power surpassing that afforded to their gods in myth, they move away from these beliefs. With all manner of terrifying things firmly under their control, civilizations lose the need for their gods, what is there for an interstellar civilization to fear besides other civilizations? One religious order to break the mold is that of the '''Ibaradists''', whose religion was not based on a fear of natural disasters or death, but of an embrace of their inevitability.{{!Religion|title1=Ibaradism|founder=[[Titania]]|established=74,841 BCE|fall=-|followers=18 Quintillion|image1=FuukosGaze.jpg|caption=The most common symbol representing Ibaradism. It is known as Ibarados' lens, an object said to be allowing the deity to see the whole of Cosmoria, making the goddess locally omniscient.}} |
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{{Infobox Religion|title1=Ibaradism|founder=[[Titania]]|founding_date=6071 CE|fall=-|number_of_followers=3.98 Trillion|image1=FuukosGaze.jpg|caption=The most common symbol representing Ibaradism. It is known as Ibarados' lens. It was said to allow the deity to see the whole of Cosmoria, making the goddess omniscient.}} |
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'''Ibaradism''' is a decentralized monolatric [[Atlins|Atlin]] religion most heavily influenced by [[Titania]]. |
'''Ibaradism''' is a decentralized monolatric [[Atlins|Atlin]] religion most heavily influenced by [[Titania Herschel]]. With 3.98 trillion practitioners, Ibaradism is one of the largest religions in the universe. Ibaradists make up the majority of the population in many regions, particularly the [[Al Phos]] region. The core belief of this religion is in the inherent divinity of nature, but a belief in that [[Cosmoria]] is a blight on the divine Cosmos. |
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Ibaradists believe that personal spiritual knowledge or enlightenment is the only way to |
Ibaradists believe that personal spiritual knowledge or enlightenment is the only way to free oneself from the "mortal coil," which is generally thought of as a meaningless state of existence. By achieving enlightenment, Ibaradists believe their minds will be free enough upon death to escape reincarnation. The religion remains diverse in its many variants and individual interpretations of cosmology, prophecy, justification, and ritualism. The variants generally hold in common a distinction between the supreme beings, of which Ibarados is a part, and the illusions of power achieved by civilizations upon reaching a certain technological level. |
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Classical Ibaradism began in |
Classical Ibaradism began in 6071 in the Al Phos region of [[Eos (Cosmoria)|Eos]] as Titania started her ministry. It was first only practiced among a minority of the Atlins until it spread to [[Orcubor]] in the early 6100s CE. The religion remained remarkably uniform until the death of Titania in 8528 CE. The death of what Ibaradists believed to be an immortal prophetess caused wide-scale panic, culminating in the founding of [[Empyros]], a fascist theocracy dedicated to cleansing the universe of infidels. Eventually, Empyros would collapse and the modern Ibaradist religion would form. |
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== |
== Beliefs == |
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Ibaradism descends from [[Aeternalism]], an ancient religion created by [[Sydiah]] that believes in the inherent divinity of nature. The divinity of nature is similarly a foundational belief in Ibaradism but with several caveats. |
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As the Atlins entered the galactic stage, not as willing participants but as subjects to the [[Orcubor]] government, they found themselves within a hostile universe. As was normal in Martial Space, the Atlins were exposed to all manner of beings whose very nature defied empiricism. [[The Ekrosian Guardians]], [[The Administrator]], and [[Nocturne]] represented society-upending forces. While many fled to the old religions, such as the worship of the stars or ancestors, many turned to these new beings for worship. [[Aeternalism]] quickly spread amongst the Atlins while the Orcubor stuck to a strictly monotheistic religion simply called '''Holo's Call'''. |
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===Divinity=== |
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In this environment, where only religion could provide not only answers but a sense of security, a new movement began. Chased off world for spreading what were called "slanderous lies" against the [[Angels]] of Aeternalism, a small group of worshipers would begin worshiping the goddess Ibarados in about 115,000 BCE. They came to the conclusion that even the Angels ultimately had no control over reality, making the worship of them pointless. To this group, Ibarados was the universe itself, the ultimate power of nature. Titania would enter the universe in 114,448 BCE, reaching out to this small group of faithful shortly thereafter. |
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The core belief of all religions descending from Aeternalism is the inherent divinity of nature. While this would normally make the religion pantheist, Ibaradists reject the notion that divinity exists within Cosmoria altogether. The soul, however, is viewed as non-physical and capable of possessing the same goodness and beauty as nature. |
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The basis for this belief is rooted in the futility of the physical universe. All that is physical is set to expire; all that is good and evil in Cosmoria ultimately returns to its parts. Since any particle can become either good or evil, they are ultimately without meaning and thus not divine. Because Ibardists believe the physical is ultimately worthless, there is an emphasis on one's soul. Only a good soul can be taken with someone as they perish after all. Ibaradist morality is based on the proposed properties of the universe and, by living a moral life, one can achieve divinity. |
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Possessing seemingly divine powers, Titania affirmed the teachings of this small group while adding thousands of addenda, expanding on them greatly. Vast numbers converted to the new religion as Titania's charismatic presentation of cosmology, coupled with its consistency in explaining reality, drew many new converts. The religion would become immensely popular as Titania became one of the three rulers of the [[Triumvirate Civilization]], the other two leaders canonizing the religion in official state accounts of history and science. |
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===Morality=== |
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Similar in belief to both Aeternalism and the [[Cabal of the Amaranth Truth]], Ibaradism was a bridge between the Triumvirate and its neighbors in [[Sedrua]] and the [[Commonwealth of Aggregate Aylathiya]]. However, as Titania continued to expand on the religion, the gap between it and its sister traditions expanded. This coupled with a move towards monotheism and further syncretism with other religions such as the [[Un'oit]] tradition would keep the nations at odds with one another. |
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The dominant view of morality is based on a system of virtue ethics. The achievement of personal virtue is seen as the highest good. Following the collapse of Empyros, a movement emphasizing '''''Siuos''','' meaning "good-spirited-ness," dominated Ibaradist discourse. Ibaradists concluded that holding onto the things of the material universe, which is believed to be fleeting and meaningless, is ultimately harmful. Through meditation and, in many cases, psychological restructuring, Ibaradists seek to achieve ''Siuos'' by abandoning their attachments. When attachment is removed, harmful actions such as murder, theft, lying, etc. are necessarily removed as these things are said to stem from desires for material gain. This moral system applies to the gods as well. Deities and religions that preach chaotic, selfish, or materialist points of view are said to be foolish and a product of the hopeless condition of mortals. The principal "evil" deity, Kokos, is believed to be the ultimate embodiment of these negative traits. |
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==Cosmology== |
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The fall of the Triumvirate in 1 CE as its three leaders went their separate ways caused Titania to found a new nation [[Florenta]] in which she would rule. In this time, the religion remained remarkably stagnant as Titania standardized practice across her territory. Disaster struck when, in 13,684 CE, the [[Neo-Terranism|Neo-Terran Party]] killed Titania and left Florenta in chaos. What emerged from the remains was [[Empyros]], a fascist theocracy. As the priesthood spiraled into fanaticism, Empyros began a purge of religious orders across [[Martial Space]]. They believed that it was up to them to return the universe to its natural state. This culminated in the [[Great Empyreal Crusade]] as hoards of religious radicals swept across Aylathiya. |
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Ibaradists adopt a similar view to the Aeternalists in that they believe intelligence cannot arise from non-intelligence. The solution to this proposed paradox is that the Cosmos itself must be intelligent. They go one step further to claim that the forces of creation must also be intelligent. They believe an uninterrupted chain of intelligence must exist between the origin of the universe and its inhabitants. The Cosmos is generally divided into a great deal of intelligent actors with their own personalities, motivations, and beliefs. Most believe that their interactions and character are metaphorical but a large number prefer a literal interpretation of Titania's writings. |
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===Deities === |
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In protest of the war, the [[Church of the Fae Queen]] (CFQ) formed as vast numbers fell away. The fall and defascization of Empyros after the [[Great Empyreal Crusade]] resulted in the execution of the vast majority of its priest class. Classical Ibaradism soon became replaced by modern Ibaradism afterwards as the CFQ rushed to fill in the vacuum left behind by the state church. After the conflict, new branches formed as vast numbers of refugees fled to other galaxies. [[Florathel]] would see shifts in its largest religion, [[Marwanism]], as Ibaradists began influencing its theology. Additionally, [[Martial Civil Religion]] would emerge heavily influenced by the teachings of Titania. Currently, the CFQ remains the most influential Ibaradist church. |
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The highest beings within the Cosmos, who reside in the realm known as "The Empyrean" are the gods. Gods are considered to embody parts of nature, making them neither good nor evil. Their names typically end in "-os," but in the Atlin language, made up of both sound and flashing light, a magenta flare is added to the words to modify their names. Without the divine modifier, each god's name represents a different force of nature. |
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==Morality== |
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The dominant view of morality is based on a system of virtue ethics with the achievement of personal virtue seen as the highest good. Following the collapse of Empyros, a movement emphasizing '''''Siuos''','' meaning "good-spirited-ness," became the standard view. Fundamentally, practitioners value finding inner peace by embracing nature. To the Ibaradist, nature is neither good or bad but just is. Good and bad only exists within minds as impressions of what nature has done. |
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Given this view, Ibaradists came to the conclusion that holding onto the things of the material universe, which is believed to be fleeting and meaningless, is ultimately harmful. Through meditation and, in many cases, psychological restructuring, Ibaradists seek to achieve ''Siuos'' by abandoning the universe. When attachment is removed, harmful actions such as murder, theft, lying, etc. are necessarily removed as these things are said to stem from desires for material gain. This moral system applies to the gods as well. Deities and religions that preach chaotic, selfish, or materialist points of view are said to be foolish and a product of the hopeless condition of mortals. The principle "evil" deity, Kokos, is believed to be the ultimate embodiment of these negative traits. |
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Ibaradists believe that acting with accordance to nature makes the universe more orderly. Intelligent life is special in that it can decide how it behaves. This means that intelligent life is the only part of the universe that can embrace chaos. Once ''Siuos'' is achieved, it is said that the universe becomes more orderly and one achieves perfect inner peace. Once inner peace is achieved, most believe that the soul becomes light enough to escape the universe, itself finally in sync with nature. |
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== Types of Heavenly Beings== |
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===Deities === |
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The highest beings within the Cosmos, who reside in the realm known as "The Empyrean" are the gods. Gods are considered to embody parts of nature, making them neither good nor evil. The Church of the Fae Queen's official stance is that "gods are metaphors for nature." Even so, roughly a third of Ibaradists believe the beings to physically exist. Whether they are theists who believe the gods to be literal or pantheists who believe that the gods are nature itself, Ibaradists effectively worship nature and strive to fit into "the grand machine." |
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===Aeons=== |
===Aeons=== |
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The higher realms of the cosmos are populated by "aeons," which are spiritual beings not unlike the lesser gods or angels of other mythoi. The Aeons were free to do as they liked with their fabulous powers and many of the gods worshiped across the universe are believed to be Aeons. Those that accept their place in nature are said to follow Ibarados while those that are evil are generally seen as slaves to their |
The higher realms of the cosmos are populated by "aeons," which are spiritual beings not unlike the lesser gods or angels of other mythoi. The Aeons were free to do as they liked with their fabulous powers and many of the gods worshiped across the universe are believed to be Aeons. Those that accept their place in nature are said to follow Ibarados while those that are evil are generally seen as slaves to their whims or desires. The names of Aeons usually end in "-ot." Aeons are created beings while gods are spontaneously generating beings. Even so, they represent power far beyond anything that exists within Cosmoria. |
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Almost all Aeons are the descendants of the gods Argentos and Katyos, with a small number coming from Ibarados. These beings are thought to have formed randomly throughout time and mostly within the higher realms. Some Ibaradists believe that aeons can and have formed in the material universe. Lacking a physical form, these beings are generally depicted as their most common "avatars" or "possessions." Theistic Ibaradists believe in Aeons while the pantheists only pay heed to the gods themselves. |
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Almost all Aeons are the descendants of the gods Argentos and Lunalunos, with a small number coming from Ibarados. These beings are thought to have formed randomly throughout time and mostly within the higher realms. Some Ibaradists believe that aeons can and have formed in the material universe. Lacking a physical form, these beings are generally depicted as their most common "avatars" or "possessions." Theistic Ibaradists believe in Aeons while the pantheists only pay heed to the gods themselves. |
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===Automat === |
===Automat === |
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Beings of infinite |
Beings of infinite regression, whose complexity cannot ever hoped to be modeled, are called Automat. While often believed to be made of gear and axle, they are by no means reproducible technology. Only the gods could create beings such as these, whose graceful and infinitely complex movements and motives exist as a testimony to their power. Mortals who approach these beings invariably turn away as humbled, just viewing this power alone enough to cause anyone to praise them as gods. To an Ibaradist, however, worshiping even these magnificent beings is heretical, for yet more magnificent entities exist. |
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With terrifying might of their own, Automat are beings who are just barely capable of existing within Cosmoria. Examples include [[The Administrator]] and beings such as the [[Cerulean Kings]], all of which are nigh incomprehensible aberrations resting upon the fabric of reality. Automat are improper to worship and are considered to be beings of chaos whose existence is a product of the corruption of Kokos. Names for these beings have the most diversity as they universally have existing names. A growing number of Ibaradists have canonized the [[Sinister#The High Warlock|High Warlock]] as an Automat. |
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With terrifying might of their own, Automat are beings who are just barely capable of existing within Cosmoria. Examples include [[The Administrator]], [[Delyatu]] and beings such as the [[Cerulean Kings]], all of which are nigh incomprehensible aberrations resting upon the fabric of reality. Automat are improper to worship and are considered to be beings of chaos whose existence is a product of the corruption of Kokos. Names for these beings have the most diversity as they universally have existing names. A growing number of Ibaradists have canonized the [[Sinister#The High Warlock|High Warlock]] as an Automat. |
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===Fae === |
===Fae === |
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Fae are only one step above mortals and are said to be the most numerous spiritual beings. Beings such as [[ |
Fae are only one step above mortals and are said to be the most numerous spiritual beings. Beings such as [[Sydiah]] and the other Angels in Aeternalism, [[Mars]], and [[Sydiah's Architects]] are all considered Fae. Titania is believed to be the Queen of the Fae as well as the most beautiful object within the universe when viewed from the outside. The Fae are rebellious and usually do not align themselves with the teachings of their queen. |
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Fae are generally considered servants of Argentos or Kokos who use their power and influence to misguide the people of the cosmos simply out of spite for Ibarados. Given their general behavior throughout history, one could reasonably come to this conclusion, especially given the endless conflicts that these beings caused. They are said to often war with the Automat and sometimes even Aeons; their hubris causing them to seek power well beyond their means. |
Fae are generally considered servants of Argentos or Kokos who use their power and influence to misguide the people of the cosmos simply out of spite for Ibarados. Given their general behavior throughout history, one could reasonably come to this conclusion, especially given the endless conflicts that these beings caused. They are said to often war with the Automat and sometimes even Aeons; their hubris causing them to seek power well beyond their means. |
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==Classical Deities == |
==Classical Deities == |
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===Kyuos (Providence)=== |
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A minority of Ibaradists have a literal interpretation of the wide range of deities, meaning that they believe that the various stories of gods across the cosmos are literal occurrences rather than metaphors. [[Classical Ibaradists]] interpret these myths to be metaphorical emanations of Ibarados (or Kokos) whose interactions can only be conveyed by story while modern Ibaradists believe that these stories are foolish inventions by mortals to explain nature. |
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At the apex of reality, exists the totality of the divinity of nature. The will of nature manifests as Kyuos, an ultimately powerful creative force that flows through all of reality. Intelligent, rational, satisfied, and inherently good, Kyuos is the only omnipotent force to exist in Ibaradism. Many called it "Providence," "God," or "[[Amaranth]]." Regardless of the name, it serves the same purpose. |
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===Ibarados=== |
===Ibarados=== |
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"Nature demanded form, and thus Ibarados was formed," a simple sentence represents a complex idea. It is believed that Kyuos, which was at one point only infinite potential energy, had no means to enable this potential. The first manifestation of the potential was Ibarados, who would ultimately be able to tap into this energy to order the universe as she saw fit. As a divine being, her desires were fully aligned with those of Kyuos, meaning that she had perfect Sious or enlightenment. |
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Due to the innate qualities of reality, Ibarados is said to have spontaneously formed. Before Ibarados existed the [[Void of Totality]], a philosophical nothing in which nothing existed save for the capacity for things to exist. The moment Ibarados emerged, this perfect nothing was forever destroyed, her energy creating the modern [[Cosmos#Void of Creation|Void of Creation]]. While the difference between the Void of Totality and Void of Creation are few, the transition between the two marked a turning point in reality. As Ibarados' mere existence allowed for energy to exist in its modern form. With the building blocks for reality, Ibarados spoke the first thoughts to have ever existed:<br> |
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<center><font size="5"> "Do" </font></center> |
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<br>This one word is said to have created things such as '''[[Amaranth]]''', [[Ambrosia#Imagindarium|'''Imagindarium''']], and '''[[Ambrosia]]'''. Ibaradists believe that the stories of Ambrosia and its heroes, as described in the [[Via Aylathiya#Notable Anomalous Phenomena & Objects|Amaranth Echoes]] and believed as canon by the Aeternalists, were true events initiated by the goddess Ibarados. This primordial reality, called '''Ambros''', was devoid of free will and represented Ibarados' first attempt at creation. After Ambros ran its course, Ibarados decided to create beings like herself, with free will.<br> |
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<center><font size="5"> "Be" </font></center> |
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<br>The next word spoken caused the quantum field to emerge, creating [[Cosmoria]]. The goddess molded the fields from chaotic phenomena into the orderly fields seen today. Most of them were higher dimensional processes that could create spiritual and idealized objects and planes. The minority were three-dimensional and useless for creating perfect realities and were thus left in their chaotic form. |
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Ibarados is the creator goddess of the entirety of reality save for |
Ibarados is the creator goddess of the entirety of reality save for Cosmoria. Ibarados is not usually worshiped, but effigies of her are common in churches throughout Cosmoria. As Ibaradism has become increasingly popular among Humans and other bipedal predatory species, Ibarados is most often depicted as a Humanoid bathed in light. Upon her head rests two lenses, granting her omniscience, while her hair or clothes are portrayed as [[Amaranth]]-colored. To other species, Ibarados is depicted in forms closer to them or as amalgamations of other species. The vibrant Amaranth and her twin lenses remain constant across depictions. |
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Ibarados' Atlin name means "Divine Origin." |
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Ibarados is described to be immovable, invisible, intangible, immaculate, and virtually ineffable. While Ibarados is commonly personified as female, the goddess is often believed to be hermaphroditic or entirely above the concept of sex or gender altogether. While never stated directly, Ibarados is characterized as behaving with mercy, love, and pity whenever dealing with lesser beings; however, she also does not tolerate any form of arrogance whatsoever. |
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As Ibaradism has become increasingly popular among Humans and other bipedal predatory species, Ibarados is most often depicted as a Humanoid bathed in light. Upon her head rests two lenses, granting her omniscience, while her hair or clothes are portrayed as [[Ambrosia#Amaranth|Amaranth]]-colored. To other species, Ibarados is depicted in forms closer to them or as amalgamations of other species. The vibrant Amaranth and her twin lenses remain constant across depictions. |
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===Kokos=== |
===Kokos=== |
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Where Ibarados is described as beyond comprehension |
Where Ibarados is described as beyond comprehension, '''Kokos''' is a simple being. Kokos is often thought of as taking on the forms of platonic solids, most commonly cubes, spheres, or pyramids. Kokos is often considered to be the source of all evil, while others consider it to be the accidental creator of evil in its lust for power and status. Many believe that certain teachings and religions are created or manipulated by Kokos to maximize their influence. Kokos is the only daughter of Ibarados and creator of the physical universe. |
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Kokos' Atlin name means "Divine Chaos." |
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===Argentos (Silver)=== |
===Argentos (Silver)=== |
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'''Argentos''' is a concept directly based on the very real being known as [[Silver Azurade]]. In these belief systems, Argentos is believed to be a chaos god responsible for the fall of Kokos. Based on a figure within the [[ |
'''Argentos''' is a concept directly based on the very real being known as [[Silver Azurade]]. In these belief systems, Argentos is believed to be a chaos god responsible for the fall of Kokos. Based on a figure within the [[Alecisism|Alecisist]] pantheon, Ibaradists came to despise the religion for its worship of the being. Since those within the Theocracy will deny that their deity is much like the Ibaradist descriptions, Silver and Argentos are considered different beings. Silver Azurade is said to be a minute emanation of the actual Argentos, explaining Silver's rejection of Ibaradist belief. |
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Argentos is believed to be the cohort ruler of reality, second only to Ibarados. Argentos |
Argentos is believed to be the cohort ruler of reality, second only to Ibarados. In the order of nature, not only creation must exist but its antithesis must as well. Argentos is depicted as an orb within which lies a thunderstorm. The orb is encased within a cube of blindingly white material. Around this orb are much smaller structures orbiting the being in unpredictable paths. The structures are nearly countless and absorb light rather than emit it. One of the structures has a humanoid form and is said to be the Silver Azurade as described in the Alecisism. |
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Argentos' Atlin name means "Divine Destruction." |
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Argentos is depicted as an orb within which lies a thunderstorm. The orb is encased within a cube of blindingly white material. Around this orb are much smaller structures orbiting the being in unpredictable paths. The structures are nearly countless and absorb light rather than emit it. One of the structures has a humanoid form and is said to be the Silver Azurade as described in the Theocracy. |
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===Katyos=== |
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Katyos is the third god (or goddess) within the hierarchy and is associated with technology. The being is exclusively depicted as a Human, without gender, who wears similar lenses to Ibarados. Katyos spends their time operating an ancient device with a myriad of buttons across its surface. When pressed, the button will cause an arm to strike a parchment, leaving behind a mark on it. This mark, while called a "letter", is a two-dimensional fractal whose exact nature depicts all of reality at its current moment. Continually typing away at this machine, Katyos records the events of the entire Cosmos, documenting the glorious works of Ibarados. Katyos is the most talented of the gods in the creation of Automat. Many believe that Katyos was responsible for the creation of the majority of Automat, including those within Cosmoria. |
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Katyos' Atlin name means "Divine Creativity." |
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Lunalunos is the most talented of the gods in the creation of Automat. Many believe that Lunalunos was responsible for the creation of the majority of Automat, including those within Cosmoria. Many associated Lunalunos with the [[Cybersphere]]. |
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===Sophrosynos=== |
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==Creation Narrative== |
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Sophrosynos is a genderless deity associated with justice. One of the "virtues," Sophrosynos enforces the conservation of mass, energy, and form across the cosmos. No one can release energy from Kyuos save for Ibarados due to Sophrosynos' enforcement. Consequently, this deity regularly interferes with the plans of Argentos, and the creations of Katyos are often purpose-built to get around this limitation. They are usually depicted as a flaming arachnoid holding innumerable scales, and a large book containing within it the laws of physics. |
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=== Creation of Heaven=== |
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Heaven, known as The Empyrean, was one of the first of Ibarados' creations. Shortly after, she began creating the rest of the cosmos. Alone and free to mold them however she pleased, Ibarados created a vast array of realms, each unique from the last. In many of the myths, Ibarados views these realms as what are essentially decorations, ranging in size from the size of an atom to light years across. |
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Sophrosynos' Atlin name means "Divine Justice." |
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While Ibarados was busy creating the cosmos, she grew lonely, not a single other being existed to keep her company. Reality itself, in response to this loneliness, would cause the spontaneous generation of the being known as Argentos. Argentos, gendered as male, became Ibarados' consort and kept her company. Argentos, however, grew bored with The Empyrean. Unlike Ibarados who enjoyed perfection, Argentos grew to enjoy chaos. Argentos would often leave The Empyrean for years at a time to try his hand at creation. First he created simple spirits that could do little more than stay in place. With time, Argentos' skill would increase, allowing for him to create all manner of beings, called '''Automat'''. These were the first sapient beings in creation beyond Ibarados and Argentos. |
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===Diolunos=== |
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Diolunos is a genderless deity associated with courage. Another of the virtues, Diolunos is one of Ibarados' enforcers. To interfere with free will is to tread directly upon Diolunos' domain. The deity is fearless and usually battles against those who interfere with the souls of mortals. Despite being fairly weak, Diolunos' intense bravery intimidates many of the gods. Diolunos are usually depicted as a suit of armor worn by a multifarious collection of bones and shells from many different species. |
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Diolunos' Atlin name means "Divine Freedom." |
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===Epi'illyos=== |
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Epi'illyos is a genderless deity associated with clarity of mind. Epi'illyos is one of the virtues and is the twin of Ekprokos. Capable of fully appreciating the beauty of the universe, Epi'illyos constantly works to maintain the universe in whatever form it is currently, in many ways representing inertia. While the passage of time and the destruction of all things is sad for Epi'illyos, the constant renewal is a source of great joy. Epi'illyos is usually depicted as a blind humanoid who, nevertheless, has a full appreciation for the beauty inherent to the universe. |
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Epi'illyos' Atlin name means "Divine Appreciation." |
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===Ekprokos=== |
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Ekprokos is a genderless deity and the last of the virtues. Associated with fiery passion, Ekprokos is the younger twin of Epi'illyos, the concepts they represent being directly related to one another. Ekprokos represents the selfless love that a truly enlightened person would possess. Ekprokos is believed to have protected Kokos from full corruption for a long time, only failing as Epi'illyos attempted to destroy time itself and address the ensuing pandemonium. |
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Ekprokos' Atlin name means "Divine Service." |
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==Narratives== |
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===Creation Narrative=== |
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<center><font size="5"> "Do" </font></center> |
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<br>This one word is said to have created things such as [[Ambrosia#Imagindarium|'''Imagindarium''']], and '''[[Ambrosia]]'''. Ibaradists believe that the stories of Ambrosia and its heroes, as described in the [[Aylathiya#Ambrosian_Remnants]] and believed as canon by the Aeternalists, were true events initiated by the goddess Ibarados. This primordial reality, called '''Ambros''', was devoid of free will and represented Ibarados' first attempt at creation. After Ambros ran its course, Ibarados decided to create beings like herself, with free will.<br> |
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<center><font size="5"> "Be" </font></center> |
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<br>The next word spoken caused the empty reality left over from Ambros to become abounding in tremendous amounts of energy. This is the energy that she would mold into the cosmos. For the time being, however, it was utterly formless. To gaze upon the infinite sea of energy would be to gaze upon everything and nothing at once. |
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Heaven, known as The Empyrean, was one of the first of Ibarados' creations. Shortly after, she began creating the rest of the cosmos. Alone and free to shape them however she pleased, Ibarados created a vast array of realms, each unique from the last. In many of the myths, Ibarados views these realms as what are essentially decorations, ranging in size from the size of an atom to light-years across. |
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While Ibarados was busy creating the cosmos, she grew lonely, not a single other being existed to keep her company. Reality itself, in response to this loneliness, would cause the spontaneous generation of the being known as Argentos. Argentos, gendered as male, became Ibarados' consort and kept her company. Argentos, however, grew bored with The Empyrean. Unlike Ibarados who enjoyed perfection, Argentos grew to enjoy chaos. Argentos would often leave The Empyrean for years at a time to try his hand at creation. First, he created simple spirits that could do little more than stay in place. With time, Argentos' skill would increase, allowing for him to create all manner of beings, called '''Automat'''. These were the first sapient beings in creation beyond Ibarados and Argentos. |
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Automat are not pure spirits like the gods; they behave much like physical matter does by a set of rules. They are often characterized to be made up of cogs and metal that contain a spirit within. Soon after their creation, they began spreading out across the cosmos. Ibarados, blind to the existence of these beings, continued creating the Cosmos on her own. Argentos, after creating the Automat, began fashioning for himself a companion that would keep him company on his excursions. |
Automat are not pure spirits like the gods; they behave much like physical matter does by a set of rules. They are often characterized to be made up of cogs and metal that contain a spirit within. Soon after their creation, they began spreading out across the cosmos. Ibarados, blind to the existence of these beings, continued creating the Cosmos on her own. Argentos, after creating the Automat, began fashioning for himself a companion that would keep him company on his excursions. |
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This companion would be the first aeon and would be named " |
This companion would be the first aeon and would be named "Katyos." Katyos is described as "dazzlingly beautiful" but does not have a gender ascribed to them. Argentos was satisfied with Katyos who would keep him company as he experimented with the cosmos. Argentos and Katyos are believed to be the pinnacle of creation. Despite Katyos being a created being instead of a spontaneously generated one, they are still treated as a god because Kyuos granted it divinity at a later point. |
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===The Creation of the Material Universe=== |
===The Creation of the Material Universe=== |
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After some amount of time, Ibarados took a break from creating the cosmos, having completed |
After some amount of time, Ibarados took a break from creating the cosmos, having completed much of it. Ibarados looked across her creation, failing to see it in much detail. Her vision was limited to what was immediately in her presence, causing most of what happened in creation to go unnoticed. |
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Sometime later, Ibarados saw, in little detail, the large number of lesser creatures fluttering across the expanse and decided that she wanted to try her hand at creating lesser beings. At this moment, Ibarados created chemistry, and, using this complicated process, she created the first forms of life. She found Katyos and Argentos to show them her creation. When she got close enough to see the Automat, made with gears, she grew frustrated. Using chemistry, she was unable to make beings as majestic as them. Ibarados soon gave up, casting the life form out of heaven. |
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This life form would sit in place for |
This life form would sit in place for a great deal of time, gradually forming into a spherical shape. Eventually, the life form became perfectly spherical and gained a sort of mind. It returned to heaven to inquire about its origins. Ibarados looked at the sphere and saw that it had developed a spirit. She gave it a body like an Automat's before returning to creating heaven, doing little to interact with it otherwise. Katyos, however, took interest in the sphere. They began telling the sphere about all matters such as the origin of things and heaven. The sphere would soon be called "Kokos." |
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Kokos would grow to hate Ibarados for making her imperfect |
Kokos would grow to hate Ibarados for making her imperfect. While all the other beings were capable of elegantly moving through space and time, Kokos' inefficient body required constant maintenance. Kokos, alienated from her "mother," began listening to the teachings of Argentos. Argentos believed it was best to live according to one's desires, eventually inspiring Kokos to defy the will of Ibarados by descending into what would become Cosmoria. Kokos began manipulating the remaining Cosmic Primordia to form the material universe. After receiving no punishment or even acknowledgment from Ibarados, Kokos continued creating just as her mother had. As a being made of chemical reactions, Kokos influenced the material universe to have chemistry, especially as the spirit-based forms of higher reality were impossible in the material universe. |
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===Ibarados' Response === |
===Ibarados' Response === |
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It would soon come to pass, |
It would soon come to pass, 40,000 years before the common era, that Ibarados would finally complete the work of the Cosmos. Upon finishing, the goddess would once more return to heaven to rest. Ibarados' rest was short as it was interrupted by thoughts of her only child. Ibarados, remembering her daughter, decided to look to see what she had done and how she had been. It was then that Ibarados discovered the physical universe, chief among Kokos' creations as well as one of the more common locations for leisure among the Automat. Ibarados, herself much more powerful than any of the beings who entered it, nearly destroyed it. Her immense power caused a series of great calamities, believed to have destabilized Cosmoria greatly. |
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Moreover, Ibarados was unable to see into the material universe due to its physical form. Ibarados grew perplexed with her daughter's creation. To her it was fragile and invisible, making learning even the smallest thing about it impossible. Ibarados summoned |
Moreover, Ibarados was unable to see into the material universe due to its physical form. Ibarados grew perplexed with her daughter's creation. To her it was fragile and invisible, making learning even the smallest thing about it impossible. Ibarados summoned Katyos, asking the god to tell her what was happening in Kokos' domain. Katyos relayed a story of uncountably many individuals suffering; lesser beings that were not perfect like the Automat or spiritual like the Aeons. |
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Ibarados wept, unable to intervene. Looking through her creation, she could find no way to interact with the physical universe, no way to reduce her power enough to venture within. Eventually, she would find that |
Ibarados wept, unable to intervene. Looking through her creation, she could find no way to interact with the physical universe, no way to reduce her power enough to venture within. Eventually, she would find that Katyos held great skill in the creation of Automat. In exchange for giving Katyos great power, Katyos would craft a pair of lenses allowing Ibarados to see not only into Cosmoria but across all of her creation. Her lenses were themselves a two-spirited Automat named "Meganot." Equipped with these spiritual lenses, Ibarados was finally able to witness the horrors that Kokos had made. Immediately, Ibarados cursed Kokos by locking her into the physical universe. Even so, the untold numbers of suffering beings caused Ibarados to gather the remainder of her power to create Titania. Titania's task was to counter the false religions of Cosmoria and relay to the people a means by which they could free themselves from them. Titania's soul would enter through the universe using [[Sydiah]], a sort of divine inspiration prompting Sydiah to create Titania's physical form. |
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===Turbulence=== |
===Turbulence=== |
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Kokos, separated from the goodness of heaven, began desperately trying to reenter. Argentos, in his selfishness, abandoned his faithful pupil out of fear that Ibarados would lock him in the material universe as well. With no other beings to talk to, Kokos would in the universe, with nothing more to do but maintain her creation. For this reason, many associated Kokos with [[Azurade]]. |
Kokos, separated from the goodness of heaven, began desperately trying to reenter. Argentos, in his selfishness, abandoned his faithful pupil out of fear that Ibarados would lock him in the material universe as well. With no other beings to talk to, Kokos would be in the universe, with nothing more to do but maintain her creation. For this reason, many associated Kokos with [[Azurade]]. |
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After Ibarados began to rest once more. Other aeons would move into the material universe from time to time, marveling at its unique properties compared to the other realms of the cosmos. These newer aeons were mostly descended from Argentos and |
After Ibarados began to rest once more. Other aeons would move into the material universe from time to time, marveling at its unique properties compared to the other realms of the cosmos. These newer aeons were mostly descended from Argentos and Katyos who themselves would, from time to time, also visit the material universe. The mortals would begin fighting wars over whichever aeon or automat they worshiped, distressing most of the aeons as they just wanted to help the mortals. Aeons are said to have been heavily involved in the universe for at least 7 million years, but this greatly increased around the formation of [[Sedrua]] and the [[Triumvirate Civilization]], who Ibaradists believe were ruled by aeons either coming from heaven or the Lux Aeterna, Kokos' forsaken realm. |
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== History == |
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As the Atlins entered the galactic stage, not as willing participants but as subjects to the [[Orcubor]] government, they found themselves within a hostile universe. As was normal in Martial Space, the Atlins were exposed to all manner of beings whose very nature defied empiricism. [[The Ekrosian Guardians]], [[The Administrator]], and [[Sydiah's Architects]] represented society-upending forces. While many fled to the old religions, such as the worship of the stars or ancestors, many turned to these new beings for worship. [[Aeternalism]] quickly spread amongst the Atlins while the Orcubor stuck to a strictly monotheistic religion simply called '''Holo's Call'''. |
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In this environment, where only religion could provide not only answers but a sense of security, a new movement began. Chased off-world for spreading "slanderous lies" against the [[Angels]] of Aeternalism, a small group of worshipers would begin worshiping the obscure goddess Ibarados in about 6065. They concluded that even the Angels ultimately had no control over reality, making the worship of them pointless. To this group, Ibarados was the universe itself, the ultimate power of nature. Titania discovered the group and converted in 6071 CE. |
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Possessing seemingly divine powers, Titania affirmed the teachings of this small group while adding thousands of addenda, expanding on them greatly. Vast numbers converted to the new religion as Titania's charismatic presentation of cosmology, coupled with its consistency in explaining reality, drew many new converts. The religion would become immensely popular as Titania used her position as one of the three rulers of the [[Triumvirate Civilization]] to increase its spread. So influential was the religion that it became the state religion of the Triumvirate in 6321 CE. |
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Ibaradism, based on but distinct from Aeternalism, was an eternal wedge between the Triumvirate and [[Sedrua]]. Titania was viewed as one of the most dangerous heretics in Sedrua. As Titania continued to expand on the religion, the gap between it and its sister traditions only expanded. This coupled with a move towards monotheism and further syncretism with other religions such as the [[Un'oit]] tradition would keep the nations at odds with one another. |
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The fall of the Triumvirate in 8058 CE as its three leaders went their separate ways caused Titania to found a new nation [[Florenta]] in which she would rule. During this time, the religion remained remarkably stagnant as Titania standardized practice across her territory. Disaster struck when, in 8528 CE, [[Gran Rubedo]] killed Titania and left Florenta in chaos. What emerged from the remains was [[Empyros]], a fascist theocracy. As the priesthood spiraled into fanaticism, Empyros began a purge of religious orders across [[Martial Space]]. They believed that it was up to them to return the universe to its natural state. This culminated in the [[Great Empyreal Crusade]] as hoards of religious radicals swept across Aylathiya. |
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In protest of the war, the [[Church of the Fae Queen]] (CFQ) formed as vast numbers fell away. The fall and occupation of Empyros resulted in the execution of the vast majority of its priest class. Classical Ibaradism soon became replaced by modern Ibaradism as the CFQ rushed to replace the state church. After the conflict, new branches formed as vast numbers of refugees fled to other galaxies. [[Martial Civil Religion]] would emerge heavily influenced by the teachings of Titania. Currently, the CFQ remains the most influential Ibaradist church, but dozens of smaller sects exist throughout Cosmoria. |
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== Eschatology == |
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The end of the universe as well as the end of an individual's life are covered under the study of Ibaradist eschatology. The major issues are the end of the physical world, the afterlife, the validity of other religious practices, and the new universe that would replace the old one. |
The end of the universe as well as the end of an individual's life are covered under the study of Ibaradist eschatology. The major issues are the end of the physical world, the afterlife, the validity of other religious practices, and the new universe that would replace the old one. |
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A relative constant is the belief that the physical universe will not last forever. Whether due to heat death, divine |
A relative constant is the belief that the physical universe will not last forever. Whether due to heat death, divine judgment, or an apocalypse, the material universe is believed to come to an end. Once destroyed, Kokos is said to be killed, and all of her followers with her. Those who sought the truth will be cleansed of their material forms and will be free to reside in the spiritual cosmos. A small sect believes that Kokos will create a new universe after learning of her mistakes, a universe where nature and humans are indistinguishable, a paradise by any Ibaradist's definition. |
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== Variants == |
== Variants == |
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Ibaradism, being so large as it is, can be divided into five main denominations, Classical, Modernist, Dualism, Kamist, and Deism. Numerous schisms shook the religion after the death of Titania, creating a vast array of different churches. The five groups each have large organizations representing their faiths. Most of these organizations are united under the Church of the Fae Queen, one of the largest interdenominational religious |
Ibaradism, being so large as it is, can be divided into five main denominations, Classical, Modernist, Dualism, Kamist, and Deism. Numerous schisms shook the religion after the death of Titania, creating a vast array of different churches. The five groups each have large organizations representing their faiths. Most of these organizations are united under the Church of the Fae Queen, one of the largest interdenominational religious organizations in Cosmoria and the only one with sovereignty over large tracts of space. |
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=== Classical Ibaradism === |
=== Classical Ibaradism === |
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=== Modernism === |
=== Modernism === |
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Modernists are the dominant branch and the branch endorsed by the Church of the Fae Queen. With a metaphorical view of the stories, the Modernists are pantheists in that they believe that nature itself is divine. Rather than place their faith in a being to protect them, they find solace in accepting the sheer futility of existence. |
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=== Dualist Ibaradism === |
=== Dualist Ibaradism === |
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Dualist Ibaradism paints Kokos and Ibarados as equal and opposite forces on reality. They believe that Kokos represents pure evil and Ibarados pure good. Generally taking a liberal but literal view |
Dualist Ibaradism paints Kokos and Ibarados as equal and opposite forces on reality. They believe that Kokos represents pure evil and Ibarados pure good. Generally taking a liberal but literal view of Titania's writings, Dualists tend to incorporate writings made by [[Ma'eau]] and [[The Administrator]], Titania's two co-rulers. |
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=== Kamism === |
=== Kamism === |
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Kamism is an omnist faction of Ibaradism, accepting all deities as equally divine emanations of Ibarados, |
Kamism is an omnist faction of Ibaradism, accepting all deities as equally divine emanations of Ibarados, whom this sect does not distinguish from Kyuos. With a great deal of influence from Aeternalism, the Lux Aeterna is considered a deity and the [[High Warlock]] is considered an Automat created by the Lux Aeterna. This sect is quick to accept new beings into the pantheon. Kamists believe that personal virtue will allow one to live in paradise upon death. |
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=== Kyoism === |
=== Kyoism === |
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Kyoism is the belief in intelligent design, the word derived from the Ibaradist word for reality, |
Kyoism is the belief in intelligent design but an otherwise uninvolved deity, the word derived from the Ibaradist word for reality, Kyuos. The least religious of the sects, Kyoism is accepted widely across society, especially in Martial Space, as a means to explain phenomena beyond the scope of science. |
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== Influence on Culture == |
== Influence on Culture == |
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Ibaradism's over |
Ibaradism's over 4000-year history has been hugely impactful on the broader history of Cosmoria. Ibaradist ideas have been greatly influential in the areas of art, architecture, literature, philosophy, and even science. Since its spread from Karaos, it has become the default religious view of Martial Space. Compared to many of the religions outside of Martial Space, the average self-identifying Martial atheist will engage more with religion daily. |
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The default view of much of the society in and around Martial Space is that "natural" means inherently good. In contrast, "artificial" often has the connotation of defying the will of the universe in some way. The words are so loaded that "organic" and "synthetic" have come to replace them in scientific discussions. |
The default view of much of the society in and around Martial Space is that "natural" means inherently good. In contrast, "artificial" often has the connotation of defying the will of the universe in some way. The words are so loaded that "organic" and "synthetic" have come to replace them in scientific discussions. |
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== Syncretism == |
== Syncretism == |
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=== Related Religions === |
=== Related Religions === |
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Proto-Ibaradism, more widely known as '''Holo's Call''', was a religion concerned with the fatalist view that the universe was managed by an uncaring deity, Holos. They believed that joy could be found in accepting Holo's will, or Call, by living a "natural life." Created amongst the |
Proto-Ibaradism, more widely known as '''Holo's Call''', was a religion concerned with the fatalist view that the universe was managed by an uncaring deity, Holos. They believed that joy could be found in accepting Holo's will, or Call, by living a "natural life." Created amongst the Orcubor, the themes of this religion bear a striking resemblance to early Ibaradism and the current iteration of the religion. |
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[[Aeternalism]] and [[Alecisism]] have both contributed to Ibaradism in that the figures in both religions have been adopted. Not much in the way of themes have been preserved between the religions, however. |
[[Aeternalism]] and [[Alecisism]] have both contributed to Ibaradism in that the figures in both religions have been adopted. Not much in the way of themes have been preserved between the religions, however. |
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=== Effect on Other Religions === |
=== Effect on Other Religions === |
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[[Martial Civil Religion]], the worship of the Martial State, emperor, or [[Mars]] broadly, has also heavily syncretized with Ibaradism. The practitioners of this religion identify Mars as a messianic figure that will deliver this universe from "chaos," the conception of which is based heavily on the idea of Kokos. Most believers say that [[Hal Drusus]] was the first prophet and Titania the second. The Martial Faith holds that nature itself demands that Mars should rule it, making the worship or following of Mars an inherent good. |
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[[Marwanism]] has been greatly affected by Ibaradism, going so far as to accept Ibarados not as a creator deity but as a regional god for the region of Martial Space.. |
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[[Martial Civil Religion]], the worship of the Martial State, emperor, or [[Mars]] broadly, has also heavily syncretized with Ibaradism. The practitioners of this religion identify Mars as a messianic figure that will deliver this universe from "chaos," the conception of which is based heavily on the idea of Kokos. Most believers say that Titania was the first prophet and Mars the second. The Martial Faith holds that nature itself demands that Mars should rule it, making the worship or following of Mars an inherent good. |
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The Un'oit Religion was entirely subsumed into Ibaradism following their conquest of [[Hathia]]. Its figures were substituted for the Ibaradist deities. |
The Un'oit Religion was entirely subsumed into Ibaradism following their conquest of [[Hathia]]. Its figures were substituted for the Ibaradist deities. |
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== Criticisms == |
== Criticisms == |
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Alecisists are the most vocal critics of Ibaradism, believing it to falsely portray its religious figures. Additionally, many criticize it for being a religion of "submission," as the core tenant of embracing what is natural necessitates abandoning |
Alecisists are the most vocal critics of Ibaradism, believing it to falsely portray its religious figures. Additionally, many criticize it for being a religion of "submission," as the core tenant of embracing what is natural necessitates abandoning one's desires. While Ibaradist scholars have often pushed back against these claims, it remains true that Ibaradism's interpretation of religious figures and history is less than accurate. |
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Many philosophers of the atheist persuasion believe Ibaradism to have contributed greatly to the stagnation of Martial Space following the collapse of the Triumvirate. They cite a devotion to building temples and meditation over actually acting on the physical universe as the main |
Many philosophers of the atheist persuasion believe Ibaradism to have contributed greatly to the stagnation of Martial Space following the collapse of the Triumvirate. They cite a devotion to building temples and meditation over actually acting on the physical universe as the main setback. Martial Civil Religion seeks to correct this, only to posit what is often described as a "totalitarian devotion to the state," less than desirable for the more libertarian-minded. |
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== Titanium Paladins == |
== Titanium Paladins == |
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A Titanium Paladin is a [[Paladin]] that draws power from their devotion |
A Titanium Paladin is a [[Paladin]] that draws power from their devotion to Ibaradism. One of the oldest orders of Paladin, the Titanium Paladins were a universally feared group during the early part of the common era. Abilities ranged from simple durability increases to flight for the less experienced and the summoning of what were called "Automat Avatars" for the most advanced. |
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The Automat Avatars, appearing less like physical beings and more like the concept of gears or machinery, were powerful engines of destruction capable of effortlessly destroying large cities. From the [[Administriviae]] to the [[Ekrosian Guardians]], similar beings have had a large impact on the history of Martial Space. With the mass execution of the priest class and the destruction of entire worlds, the ability to summon these "machines" has been lost. To this day, still-existing orders have been looking for ways to summon them. |
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The Automat Avatars, appearing less like physical beings and more like the concept of gears or machinery, were powerful engines of destruction capable of effortlessly destroying large cities. From the destruction of the [[Svartálfar]] to the [[Ekrosian Guardians]], similar beings have had a large impact on the history of Martial Space. With the mass execution of the priest class and the total destruction of entire worlds, the ability to summon these "machines" has been lost. To this day, still-existing orders have been looking for ways to summon them. |
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[[Category:Religions]] |
[[Category:Religions]] |
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[[Category: |
[[Category:Martial Space]] |
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[[Category: |
[[Category:Scope: Cosmoria - Aylathiya]] |
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[[Category:Author: Duodecillionaire]] |
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Latest revision as of 01:09, October 13, 2025
Ibaradism
3.98 Trillion
6071 CE
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Ibaradism is a decentralized monolatric Atlin religion most heavily influenced by Titania Herschel. With 3.98 trillion practitioners, Ibaradism is one of the largest religions in the universe. Ibaradists make up the majority of the population in many regions, particularly the Al Phos region. The core belief of this religion is in the inherent divinity of nature, but a belief in that Cosmoria is a blight on the divine Cosmos.
Ibaradists believe that personal spiritual knowledge or enlightenment is the only way to free oneself from the "mortal coil," which is generally thought of as a meaningless state of existence. By achieving enlightenment, Ibaradists believe their minds will be free enough upon death to escape reincarnation. The religion remains diverse in its many variants and individual interpretations of cosmology, prophecy, justification, and ritualism. The variants generally hold in common a distinction between the supreme beings, of which Ibarados is a part, and the illusions of power achieved by civilizations upon reaching a certain technological level.
Classical Ibaradism began in 6071 in the Al Phos region of Eos as Titania started her ministry. It was first only practiced among a minority of the Atlins until it spread to Orcubor in the early 6100s CE. The religion remained remarkably uniform until the death of Titania in 8528 CE. The death of what Ibaradists believed to be an immortal prophetess caused wide-scale panic, culminating in the founding of Empyros, a fascist theocracy dedicated to cleansing the universe of infidels. Eventually, Empyros would collapse and the modern Ibaradist religion would form.
Beliefs
Ibaradism descends from Aeternalism, an ancient religion created by Sydiah that believes in the inherent divinity of nature. The divinity of nature is similarly a foundational belief in Ibaradism but with several caveats.
Divinity
The core belief of all religions descending from Aeternalism is the inherent divinity of nature. While this would normally make the religion pantheist, Ibaradists reject the notion that divinity exists within Cosmoria altogether. The soul, however, is viewed as non-physical and capable of possessing the same goodness and beauty as nature.
The basis for this belief is rooted in the futility of the physical universe. All that is physical is set to expire; all that is good and evil in Cosmoria ultimately returns to its parts. Since any particle can become either good or evil, they are ultimately without meaning and thus not divine. Because Ibardists believe the physical is ultimately worthless, there is an emphasis on one's soul. Only a good soul can be taken with someone as they perish after all. Ibaradist morality is based on the proposed properties of the universe and, by living a moral life, one can achieve divinity.
Morality
The dominant view of morality is based on a system of virtue ethics. The achievement of personal virtue is seen as the highest good. Following the collapse of Empyros, a movement emphasizing Siuos, meaning "good-spirited-ness," dominated Ibaradist discourse. Ibaradists concluded that holding onto the things of the material universe, which is believed to be fleeting and meaningless, is ultimately harmful. Through meditation and, in many cases, psychological restructuring, Ibaradists seek to achieve Siuos by abandoning their attachments. When attachment is removed, harmful actions such as murder, theft, lying, etc. are necessarily removed as these things are said to stem from desires for material gain. This moral system applies to the gods as well. Deities and religions that preach chaotic, selfish, or materialist points of view are said to be foolish and a product of the hopeless condition of mortals. The principal "evil" deity, Kokos, is believed to be the ultimate embodiment of these negative traits.
Cosmology
Ibaradists adopt a similar view to the Aeternalists in that they believe intelligence cannot arise from non-intelligence. The solution to this proposed paradox is that the Cosmos itself must be intelligent. They go one step further to claim that the forces of creation must also be intelligent. They believe an uninterrupted chain of intelligence must exist between the origin of the universe and its inhabitants. The Cosmos is generally divided into a great deal of intelligent actors with their own personalities, motivations, and beliefs. Most believe that their interactions and character are metaphorical but a large number prefer a literal interpretation of Titania's writings.
Deities
The highest beings within the Cosmos, who reside in the realm known as "The Empyrean" are the gods. Gods are considered to embody parts of nature, making them neither good nor evil. Their names typically end in "-os," but in the Atlin language, made up of both sound and flashing light, a magenta flare is added to the words to modify their names. Without the divine modifier, each god's name represents a different force of nature.
Aeons
The higher realms of the cosmos are populated by "aeons," which are spiritual beings not unlike the lesser gods or angels of other mythoi. The Aeons were free to do as they liked with their fabulous powers and many of the gods worshiped across the universe are believed to be Aeons. Those that accept their place in nature are said to follow Ibarados while those that are evil are generally seen as slaves to their whims or desires. The names of Aeons usually end in "-ot." Aeons are created beings while gods are spontaneously generating beings. Even so, they represent power far beyond anything that exists within Cosmoria.
Almost all Aeons are the descendants of the gods Argentos and Katyos, with a small number coming from Ibarados. These beings are thought to have formed randomly throughout time and mostly within the higher realms. Some Ibaradists believe that aeons can and have formed in the material universe. Lacking a physical form, these beings are generally depicted as their most common "avatars" or "possessions." Theistic Ibaradists believe in Aeons while the pantheists only pay heed to the gods themselves.
Automat
Beings of infinite regression, whose complexity cannot ever hoped to be modeled, are called Automat. While often believed to be made of gear and axle, they are by no means reproducible technology. Only the gods could create beings such as these, whose graceful and infinitely complex movements and motives exist as a testimony to their power. Mortals who approach these beings invariably turn away as humbled, just viewing this power alone enough to cause anyone to praise them as gods. To an Ibaradist, however, worshiping even these magnificent beings is heretical, for yet more magnificent entities exist.
With terrifying might of their own, Automat are beings who are just barely capable of existing within Cosmoria. Examples include The Administrator and beings such as the Cerulean Kings, all of which are nigh incomprehensible aberrations resting upon the fabric of reality. Automat are improper to worship and are considered to be beings of chaos whose existence is a product of the corruption of Kokos. Names for these beings have the most diversity as they universally have existing names. A growing number of Ibaradists have canonized the High Warlock as an Automat.
Fae
Fae are only one step above mortals and are said to be the most numerous spiritual beings. Beings such as Sydiah and the other Angels in Aeternalism, Mars, and Sydiah's Architects are all considered Fae. Titania is believed to be the Queen of the Fae as well as the most beautiful object within the universe when viewed from the outside. The Fae are rebellious and usually do not align themselves with the teachings of their queen.
Fae are generally considered servants of Argentos or Kokos who use their power and influence to misguide the people of the cosmos simply out of spite for Ibarados. Given their general behavior throughout history, one could reasonably come to this conclusion, especially given the endless conflicts that these beings caused. They are said to often war with the Automat and sometimes even Aeons; their hubris causing them to seek power well beyond their means.
Classical Deities
Kyuos (Providence)
At the apex of reality, exists the totality of the divinity of nature. The will of nature manifests as Kyuos, an ultimately powerful creative force that flows through all of reality. Intelligent, rational, satisfied, and inherently good, Kyuos is the only omnipotent force to exist in Ibaradism. Many called it "Providence," "God," or "Amaranth." Regardless of the name, it serves the same purpose.
Ibarados
"Nature demanded form, and thus Ibarados was formed," a simple sentence represents a complex idea. It is believed that Kyuos, which was at one point only infinite potential energy, had no means to enable this potential. The first manifestation of the potential was Ibarados, who would ultimately be able to tap into this energy to order the universe as she saw fit. As a divine being, her desires were fully aligned with those of Kyuos, meaning that she had perfect Sious or enlightenment.
Ibarados is the creator goddess of the entirety of reality save for Cosmoria. Ibarados is not usually worshiped, but effigies of her are common in churches throughout Cosmoria. As Ibaradism has become increasingly popular among Humans and other bipedal predatory species, Ibarados is most often depicted as a Humanoid bathed in light. Upon her head rests two lenses, granting her omniscience, while her hair or clothes are portrayed as Amaranth-colored. To other species, Ibarados is depicted in forms closer to them or as amalgamations of other species. The vibrant Amaranth and her twin lenses remain constant across depictions.
Ibarados' Atlin name means "Divine Origin."
Kokos
Where Ibarados is described as beyond comprehension, Kokos is a simple being. Kokos is often thought of as taking on the forms of platonic solids, most commonly cubes, spheres, or pyramids. Kokos is often considered to be the source of all evil, while others consider it to be the accidental creator of evil in its lust for power and status. Many believe that certain teachings and religions are created or manipulated by Kokos to maximize their influence. Kokos is the only daughter of Ibarados and creator of the physical universe.
Kokos' Atlin name means "Divine Chaos."
Argentos (Silver)
Argentos is a concept directly based on the very real being known as Silver Azurade. In these belief systems, Argentos is believed to be a chaos god responsible for the fall of Kokos. Based on a figure within the Alecisist pantheon, Ibaradists came to despise the religion for its worship of the being. Since those within the Theocracy will deny that their deity is much like the Ibaradist descriptions, Silver and Argentos are considered different beings. Silver Azurade is said to be a minute emanation of the actual Argentos, explaining Silver's rejection of Ibaradist belief.
Argentos is believed to be the cohort ruler of reality, second only to Ibarados. In the order of nature, not only creation must exist but its antithesis must as well. Argentos is depicted as an orb within which lies a thunderstorm. The orb is encased within a cube of blindingly white material. Around this orb are much smaller structures orbiting the being in unpredictable paths. The structures are nearly countless and absorb light rather than emit it. One of the structures has a humanoid form and is said to be the Silver Azurade as described in the Alecisism.
Argentos' Atlin name means "Divine Destruction."
Katyos
Katyos is the third god (or goddess) within the hierarchy and is associated with technology. The being is exclusively depicted as a Human, without gender, who wears similar lenses to Ibarados. Katyos spends their time operating an ancient device with a myriad of buttons across its surface. When pressed, the button will cause an arm to strike a parchment, leaving behind a mark on it. This mark, while called a "letter", is a two-dimensional fractal whose exact nature depicts all of reality at its current moment. Continually typing away at this machine, Katyos records the events of the entire Cosmos, documenting the glorious works of Ibarados. Katyos is the most talented of the gods in the creation of Automat. Many believe that Katyos was responsible for the creation of the majority of Automat, including those within Cosmoria.
Katyos' Atlin name means "Divine Creativity."
Sophrosynos
Sophrosynos is a genderless deity associated with justice. One of the "virtues," Sophrosynos enforces the conservation of mass, energy, and form across the cosmos. No one can release energy from Kyuos save for Ibarados due to Sophrosynos' enforcement. Consequently, this deity regularly interferes with the plans of Argentos, and the creations of Katyos are often purpose-built to get around this limitation. They are usually depicted as a flaming arachnoid holding innumerable scales, and a large book containing within it the laws of physics.
Sophrosynos' Atlin name means "Divine Justice."
Diolunos
Diolunos is a genderless deity associated with courage. Another of the virtues, Diolunos is one of Ibarados' enforcers. To interfere with free will is to tread directly upon Diolunos' domain. The deity is fearless and usually battles against those who interfere with the souls of mortals. Despite being fairly weak, Diolunos' intense bravery intimidates many of the gods. Diolunos are usually depicted as a suit of armor worn by a multifarious collection of bones and shells from many different species.
Diolunos' Atlin name means "Divine Freedom."
Epi'illyos
Epi'illyos is a genderless deity associated with clarity of mind. Epi'illyos is one of the virtues and is the twin of Ekprokos. Capable of fully appreciating the beauty of the universe, Epi'illyos constantly works to maintain the universe in whatever form it is currently, in many ways representing inertia. While the passage of time and the destruction of all things is sad for Epi'illyos, the constant renewal is a source of great joy. Epi'illyos is usually depicted as a blind humanoid who, nevertheless, has a full appreciation for the beauty inherent to the universe.
Epi'illyos' Atlin name means "Divine Appreciation."
Ekprokos
Ekprokos is a genderless deity and the last of the virtues. Associated with fiery passion, Ekprokos is the younger twin of Epi'illyos, the concepts they represent being directly related to one another. Ekprokos represents the selfless love that a truly enlightened person would possess. Ekprokos is believed to have protected Kokos from full corruption for a long time, only failing as Epi'illyos attempted to destroy time itself and address the ensuing pandemonium.
Ekprokos' Atlin name means "Divine Service."
Narratives
Creation Narrative
This one word is said to have created things such as Imagindarium, and Ambrosia. Ibaradists believe that the stories of Ambrosia and its heroes, as described in the Aylathiya#Ambrosian_Remnants and believed as canon by the Aeternalists, were true events initiated by the goddess Ibarados. This primordial reality, called Ambros, was devoid of free will and represented Ibarados' first attempt at creation. After Ambros ran its course, Ibarados decided to create beings like herself, with free will.
The next word spoken caused the empty reality left over from Ambros to become abounding in tremendous amounts of energy. This is the energy that she would mold into the cosmos. For the time being, however, it was utterly formless. To gaze upon the infinite sea of energy would be to gaze upon everything and nothing at once.
Heaven, known as The Empyrean, was one of the first of Ibarados' creations. Shortly after, she began creating the rest of the cosmos. Alone and free to shape them however she pleased, Ibarados created a vast array of realms, each unique from the last. In many of the myths, Ibarados views these realms as what are essentially decorations, ranging in size from the size of an atom to light-years across.
While Ibarados was busy creating the cosmos, she grew lonely, not a single other being existed to keep her company. Reality itself, in response to this loneliness, would cause the spontaneous generation of the being known as Argentos. Argentos, gendered as male, became Ibarados' consort and kept her company. Argentos, however, grew bored with The Empyrean. Unlike Ibarados who enjoyed perfection, Argentos grew to enjoy chaos. Argentos would often leave The Empyrean for years at a time to try his hand at creation. First, he created simple spirits that could do little more than stay in place. With time, Argentos' skill would increase, allowing for him to create all manner of beings, called Automat. These were the first sapient beings in creation beyond Ibarados and Argentos.
Automat are not pure spirits like the gods; they behave much like physical matter does by a set of rules. They are often characterized to be made up of cogs and metal that contain a spirit within. Soon after their creation, they began spreading out across the cosmos. Ibarados, blind to the existence of these beings, continued creating the Cosmos on her own. Argentos, after creating the Automat, began fashioning for himself a companion that would keep him company on his excursions.
This companion would be the first aeon and would be named "Katyos." Katyos is described as "dazzlingly beautiful" but does not have a gender ascribed to them. Argentos was satisfied with Katyos who would keep him company as he experimented with the cosmos. Argentos and Katyos are believed to be the pinnacle of creation. Despite Katyos being a created being instead of a spontaneously generated one, they are still treated as a god because Kyuos granted it divinity at a later point.
The Creation of the Material Universe
After some amount of time, Ibarados took a break from creating the cosmos, having completed much of it. Ibarados looked across her creation, failing to see it in much detail. Her vision was limited to what was immediately in her presence, causing most of what happened in creation to go unnoticed.
Sometime later, Ibarados saw, in little detail, the large number of lesser creatures fluttering across the expanse and decided that she wanted to try her hand at creating lesser beings. At this moment, Ibarados created chemistry, and, using this complicated process, she created the first forms of life. She found Katyos and Argentos to show them her creation. When she got close enough to see the Automat, made with gears, she grew frustrated. Using chemistry, she was unable to make beings as majestic as them. Ibarados soon gave up, casting the life form out of heaven.
This life form would sit in place for a great deal of time, gradually forming into a spherical shape. Eventually, the life form became perfectly spherical and gained a sort of mind. It returned to heaven to inquire about its origins. Ibarados looked at the sphere and saw that it had developed a spirit. She gave it a body like an Automat's before returning to creating heaven, doing little to interact with it otherwise. Katyos, however, took interest in the sphere. They began telling the sphere about all matters such as the origin of things and heaven. The sphere would soon be called "Kokos."
Kokos would grow to hate Ibarados for making her imperfect. While all the other beings were capable of elegantly moving through space and time, Kokos' inefficient body required constant maintenance. Kokos, alienated from her "mother," began listening to the teachings of Argentos. Argentos believed it was best to live according to one's desires, eventually inspiring Kokos to defy the will of Ibarados by descending into what would become Cosmoria. Kokos began manipulating the remaining Cosmic Primordia to form the material universe. After receiving no punishment or even acknowledgment from Ibarados, Kokos continued creating just as her mother had. As a being made of chemical reactions, Kokos influenced the material universe to have chemistry, especially as the spirit-based forms of higher reality were impossible in the material universe.
Ibarados' Response
It would soon come to pass, 40,000 years before the common era, that Ibarados would finally complete the work of the Cosmos. Upon finishing, the goddess would once more return to heaven to rest. Ibarados' rest was short as it was interrupted by thoughts of her only child. Ibarados, remembering her daughter, decided to look to see what she had done and how she had been. It was then that Ibarados discovered the physical universe, chief among Kokos' creations as well as one of the more common locations for leisure among the Automat. Ibarados, herself much more powerful than any of the beings who entered it, nearly destroyed it. Her immense power caused a series of great calamities, believed to have destabilized Cosmoria greatly.
Moreover, Ibarados was unable to see into the material universe due to its physical form. Ibarados grew perplexed with her daughter's creation. To her it was fragile and invisible, making learning even the smallest thing about it impossible. Ibarados summoned Katyos, asking the god to tell her what was happening in Kokos' domain. Katyos relayed a story of uncountably many individuals suffering; lesser beings that were not perfect like the Automat or spiritual like the Aeons.
Ibarados wept, unable to intervene. Looking through her creation, she could find no way to interact with the physical universe, no way to reduce her power enough to venture within. Eventually, she would find that Katyos held great skill in the creation of Automat. In exchange for giving Katyos great power, Katyos would craft a pair of lenses allowing Ibarados to see not only into Cosmoria but across all of her creation. Her lenses were themselves a two-spirited Automat named "Meganot." Equipped with these spiritual lenses, Ibarados was finally able to witness the horrors that Kokos had made. Immediately, Ibarados cursed Kokos by locking her into the physical universe. Even so, the untold numbers of suffering beings caused Ibarados to gather the remainder of her power to create Titania. Titania's task was to counter the false religions of Cosmoria and relay to the people a means by which they could free themselves from them. Titania's soul would enter through the universe using Sydiah, a sort of divine inspiration prompting Sydiah to create Titania's physical form.
Turbulence
Kokos, separated from the goodness of heaven, began desperately trying to reenter. Argentos, in his selfishness, abandoned his faithful pupil out of fear that Ibarados would lock him in the material universe as well. With no other beings to talk to, Kokos would be in the universe, with nothing more to do but maintain her creation. For this reason, many associated Kokos with Azurade.
After Ibarados began to rest once more. Other aeons would move into the material universe from time to time, marveling at its unique properties compared to the other realms of the cosmos. These newer aeons were mostly descended from Argentos and Katyos who themselves would, from time to time, also visit the material universe. The mortals would begin fighting wars over whichever aeon or automat they worshiped, distressing most of the aeons as they just wanted to help the mortals. Aeons are said to have been heavily involved in the universe for at least 7 million years, but this greatly increased around the formation of Sedrua and the Triumvirate Civilization, who Ibaradists believe were ruled by aeons either coming from heaven or the Lux Aeterna, Kokos' forsaken realm.
History
As the Atlins entered the galactic stage, not as willing participants but as subjects to the Orcubor government, they found themselves within a hostile universe. As was normal in Martial Space, the Atlins were exposed to all manner of beings whose very nature defied empiricism. The Ekrosian Guardians, The Administrator, and Sydiah's Architects represented society-upending forces. While many fled to the old religions, such as the worship of the stars or ancestors, many turned to these new beings for worship. Aeternalism quickly spread amongst the Atlins while the Orcubor stuck to a strictly monotheistic religion simply called Holo's Call.
In this environment, where only religion could provide not only answers but a sense of security, a new movement began. Chased off-world for spreading "slanderous lies" against the Angels of Aeternalism, a small group of worshipers would begin worshiping the obscure goddess Ibarados in about 6065. They concluded that even the Angels ultimately had no control over reality, making the worship of them pointless. To this group, Ibarados was the universe itself, the ultimate power of nature. Titania discovered the group and converted in 6071 CE.
Possessing seemingly divine powers, Titania affirmed the teachings of this small group while adding thousands of addenda, expanding on them greatly. Vast numbers converted to the new religion as Titania's charismatic presentation of cosmology, coupled with its consistency in explaining reality, drew many new converts. The religion would become immensely popular as Titania used her position as one of the three rulers of the Triumvirate Civilization to increase its spread. So influential was the religion that it became the state religion of the Triumvirate in 6321 CE.
Ibaradism, based on but distinct from Aeternalism, was an eternal wedge between the Triumvirate and Sedrua. Titania was viewed as one of the most dangerous heretics in Sedrua. As Titania continued to expand on the religion, the gap between it and its sister traditions only expanded. This coupled with a move towards monotheism and further syncretism with other religions such as the Un'oit tradition would keep the nations at odds with one another.
The fall of the Triumvirate in 8058 CE as its three leaders went their separate ways caused Titania to found a new nation Florenta in which she would rule. During this time, the religion remained remarkably stagnant as Titania standardized practice across her territory. Disaster struck when, in 8528 CE, Gran Rubedo killed Titania and left Florenta in chaos. What emerged from the remains was Empyros, a fascist theocracy. As the priesthood spiraled into fanaticism, Empyros began a purge of religious orders across Martial Space. They believed that it was up to them to return the universe to its natural state. This culminated in the Great Empyreal Crusade as hoards of religious radicals swept across Aylathiya.
In protest of the war, the Church of the Fae Queen (CFQ) formed as vast numbers fell away. The fall and occupation of Empyros resulted in the execution of the vast majority of its priest class. Classical Ibaradism soon became replaced by modern Ibaradism as the CFQ rushed to replace the state church. After the conflict, new branches formed as vast numbers of refugees fled to other galaxies. Martial Civil Religion would emerge heavily influenced by the teachings of Titania. Currently, the CFQ remains the most influential Ibaradist church, but dozens of smaller sects exist throughout Cosmoria.
Eschatology
The end of the universe as well as the end of an individual's life are covered under the study of Ibaradist eschatology. The major issues are the end of the physical world, the afterlife, the validity of other religious practices, and the new universe that would replace the old one.
A relative constant is the belief that the physical universe will not last forever. Whether due to heat death, divine judgment, or an apocalypse, the material universe is believed to come to an end. Once destroyed, Kokos is said to be killed, and all of her followers with her. Those who sought the truth will be cleansed of their material forms and will be free to reside in the spiritual cosmos. A small sect believes that Kokos will create a new universe after learning of her mistakes, a universe where nature and humans are indistinguishable, a paradise by any Ibaradist's definition.
Variants
Ibaradism, being so large as it is, can be divided into five main denominations, Classical, Modernist, Dualism, Kamist, and Deism. Numerous schisms shook the religion after the death of Titania, creating a vast array of different churches. The five groups each have large organizations representing their faiths. Most of these organizations are united under the Church of the Fae Queen, one of the largest interdenominational religious organizations in Cosmoria and the only one with sovereignty over large tracts of space.
Classical Ibaradism
Classical Ibaradism derives its teachings from the writings of Titania. This doctrine of only accepting Titania's writings is the main characteristic of Classical Ibaradism. The oldest of the five main branches, this sect claims that its beliefs are the most accurate. They tend to take a literal view of the writings and they regularly worship Ibarados in elaborate planet-spanning rituals and rites.
Modernism
Modernists are the dominant branch and the branch endorsed by the Church of the Fae Queen. With a metaphorical view of the stories, the Modernists are pantheists in that they believe that nature itself is divine. Rather than place their faith in a being to protect them, they find solace in accepting the sheer futility of existence.
Dualist Ibaradism
Dualist Ibaradism paints Kokos and Ibarados as equal and opposite forces on reality. They believe that Kokos represents pure evil and Ibarados pure good. Generally taking a liberal but literal view of Titania's writings, Dualists tend to incorporate writings made by Ma'eau and The Administrator, Titania's two co-rulers.
Kamism
Kamism is an omnist faction of Ibaradism, accepting all deities as equally divine emanations of Ibarados, whom this sect does not distinguish from Kyuos. With a great deal of influence from Aeternalism, the Lux Aeterna is considered a deity and the High Warlock is considered an Automat created by the Lux Aeterna. This sect is quick to accept new beings into the pantheon. Kamists believe that personal virtue will allow one to live in paradise upon death.
Kyoism
Kyoism is the belief in intelligent design but an otherwise uninvolved deity, the word derived from the Ibaradist word for reality, Kyuos. The least religious of the sects, Kyoism is accepted widely across society, especially in Martial Space, as a means to explain phenomena beyond the scope of science.
Influence on Culture
Ibaradism's over 4000-year history has been hugely impactful on the broader history of Cosmoria. Ibaradist ideas have been greatly influential in the areas of art, architecture, literature, philosophy, and even science. Since its spread from Karaos, it has become the default religious view of Martial Space. Compared to many of the religions outside of Martial Space, the average self-identifying Martial atheist will engage more with religion daily.
The default view of much of the society in and around Martial Space is that "natural" means inherently good. In contrast, "artificial" often has the connotation of defying the will of the universe in some way. The words are so loaded that "organic" and "synthetic" have come to replace them in scientific discussions.
Syncretism
Related Religions
Proto-Ibaradism, more widely known as Holo's Call, was a religion concerned with the fatalist view that the universe was managed by an uncaring deity, Holos. They believed that joy could be found in accepting Holo's will, or Call, by living a "natural life." Created amongst the Orcubor, the themes of this religion bear a striking resemblance to early Ibaradism and the current iteration of the religion.
Aeternalism and Alecisism have both contributed to Ibaradism in that the figures in both religions have been adopted. Not much in the way of themes have been preserved between the religions, however.
Effect on Other Religions
Martial Civil Religion, the worship of the Martial State, emperor, or Mars broadly, has also heavily syncretized with Ibaradism. The practitioners of this religion identify Mars as a messianic figure that will deliver this universe from "chaos," the conception of which is based heavily on the idea of Kokos. Most believers say that Hal Drusus was the first prophet and Titania the second. The Martial Faith holds that nature itself demands that Mars should rule it, making the worship or following of Mars an inherent good.
The Un'oit Religion was entirely subsumed into Ibaradism following their conquest of Hathia. Its figures were substituted for the Ibaradist deities.
Criticisms
Alecisists are the most vocal critics of Ibaradism, believing it to falsely portray its religious figures. Additionally, many criticize it for being a religion of "submission," as the core tenant of embracing what is natural necessitates abandoning one's desires. While Ibaradist scholars have often pushed back against these claims, it remains true that Ibaradism's interpretation of religious figures and history is less than accurate.
Many philosophers of the atheist persuasion believe Ibaradism to have contributed greatly to the stagnation of Martial Space following the collapse of the Triumvirate. They cite a devotion to building temples and meditation over actually acting on the physical universe as the main setback. Martial Civil Religion seeks to correct this, only to posit what is often described as a "totalitarian devotion to the state," less than desirable for the more libertarian-minded.
Titanium Paladins
A Titanium Paladin is a Paladin that draws power from their devotion to Ibaradism. One of the oldest orders of Paladin, the Titanium Paladins were a universally feared group during the early part of the common era. Abilities ranged from simple durability increases to flight for the less experienced and the summoning of what were called "Automat Avatars" for the most advanced.
The Automat Avatars, appearing less like physical beings and more like the concept of gears or machinery, were powerful engines of destruction capable of effortlessly destroying large cities. From the Administriviae to the Ekrosian Guardians, similar beings have had a large impact on the history of Martial Space. With the mass execution of the priest class and the destruction of entire worlds, the ability to summon these "machines" has been lost. To this day, still-existing orders have been looking for ways to summon them.