The doctrine.

[DM-Chris]

Vashindi

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Origin: Vashindi was one of the first religions established after the Demon Culling War. It was taught by Visnu and its doctrine is recorded in the Elmbazoned Scrolls, held in the Grand Temple of Kamisama.

Core Philosophy: Vashindi teaches that the body is a vessel for divine energy, and the quality of one's life depends on how well this vessel is cared for. Through ritual stretching, martial exercises and meditation, one can improve and maintain the vitality of the vessel. The ultimate goal of practicing Vashindi is to achieve a state of supreme attunement with one's body, allowing disciplined control of every muscle, every nerve. While not taught formally, practitioners of Vashindi perpetuate the belief that perfection of self is possible, and if ever achieved, would allow a man to become a dragon.

Practicing Vashindi: The practice of Vashindi is very centered around the individual, and there are no daily, public ceremonies. Worshippers begin every morning with routine stretching, which is done entirely blind-folded to help turn one's mind inward, and focus on the attunement of the mind and body. Life in Visnaru society is rigorous and filled with physical labor, something worshippers of Vashindi look forward to as part of the toil which strengthens the body. There is very little in the way of prayer in Vashindi, but every day at noon, before lunch, a prayer is said with eyes closed, and faces turned to the sun. The sun plays an important role in Vashindi because it is taught to be the source of power and energy that flows within the body.

Vashindi Priesthood: Unlike the Disciples of Visnu, Vashindi priests do not spend most of their training practicing martial arts. Rather, they focus on harnessing the divine energy of the sun, channeled through their dragon deity Visnu. They use this divine magic to strengthen their bodies and to invoke a little luck into combat. They are also valued as great healers, capable of curing both the soul and the body.
Also unlike the Disciples of Visnu, there is no age limit or requirement to become a Vashindi priest. When old enough, younger acolytes are encouraged to live at the Grand Temple and study, but there is no set age for this, and is left for the parents to decide. Vashindi does not restrict its priesthood by race either, but new acolytes must be willing to live in Kamisama and integrate with society.
When the eldest priests at the temple decide an acolyte is ready, they are granted a crimson sash with gold embroidery, marking their status as a priest. Until then, acolytes are expected to be obedient and respectful to priests. Fully ordained priests are all peers, regardless of the duration in service, and there is no hierarchy. Vashindi priests are free to travel as they please, but most stay in Kamisama to provide healing and protection.

Relations: Vashindi is not looked down upon by other cultures that the Visnaru are on friendly terms with. It inspires a lot of intrigue amongst the Aedar, whom comprise the most numerous foreign worshippers. While monotheistic in nature, Vashindi does not restrict itself to only praising Visnu. There is a prayer that exists to give thanks to Meraga when it rains, for example. While it does not attempt to be secretive or discriminate against membership in the priesthood, Vashindi is considered private to the Visnaru and there never have been, nor will there ever be Vashindi missionaries.

Domains: Law, Healing, Luck, Sun, Strength