The World Of Khoras - Religion - Gods of Aggradar

Bromat

"Only in suffering is true strength revealed."

Description

Formerly a deity of the Kytohan Empire, Bromat has been adopted by the Magrakians as their chief god. The nature of Bromat and his teachings have been greatly influenced by the nature of the Magrakian people and now Bromat is entirely a Magrakian deity. The worship of Bromat is generally limited to the Magrakians, but due to their travel and trade, shrines to Bromat can be found throughout the west wherever there are magrakians.

Bromat is depicted as an immensely obese magrakian male dressed in flamboyant clothing and much jewelry. He is a jolly man who only sees the good in life. Music plays constantly about him and fine food appears with the wave of his hand. This ability is used frequently as Bromat is blessed with an unending appetite. He feasts on more than just food though. It is said that Bromat hungers for and devours the souls of the lazy.

Religion

In the tales told by the priests, Bromat happily does any work required and expects hard work from the faithful. Bromat tests his followers constantly be putting obstacles and problems in their way. A worshiper of Bromat is expected to tackle each challenge with joy in their heart. For the faithful of Bromat, every day is a trial and Bromat is watching

There is a definite similarity between Olgrom and Bromat. There is some overlap in the nature of these two religions and it is very likely that these two faith systems have influenced each other over the centuries.

The Clergy

There are no ranks and title within the church. All members are "priests". Seniority decides who has authority in any given situation. Likewise, there is no distinction in dress or insignia. The garb of a Bromat priest is an plain and functional. Typically this involves simple gray robes trimmed in black, deep hoods and high leather boots. They each wear a simple leather satchel at their side.

Often senior members will give junior members various tasks or chores simply to test their endurance. Such tests may be practical (such as polishing the temple floors) or ridiculous (carrying a stone about at all times). Discipline usually involves repetitive chores or chants.

The priests of Bromat tend to the needs of the community through many means: they tend to the sick (although they often do not outright heal them with magic), they counsel the troubled, the prayer and hold mass and they lead by example. Bromat churches hold council with all members to debate theology, teach, share ideas and discuss important events of the day. All priests, regardless of seniority, attend and have an equal chance to speak. Often, these meetings will be open to the public.

	First of all, they are blessed with a physical endurance even beyond that of their race. Bromat priests virtually shrug off pain and fatigue. It is said that Bromat grants them this strength.
	Bromat priests undergo deep meditation for days at a time. This is just another example of the infamous magrakian patience. Priests of Bromat are able to use this training in a variety of ways. They can slow the heart rate and breathing to simulate death. They can go for weeks without food or water. They can, in effect, hibernate.
	Probably the most astounding feat is something called stoneskin. Only the most senior priests are able to perform this miracle. With proper meditation and preparation, they are able to transfer themselves into a living stone statue. It is a very effective way to enter combat.

Bromat temples are circular and built around a central circular amphitheatre with a stone statue of Bromat in the center. A typical Bromat temple in an average sized town will have 10-20 priests. The temple at Okslad has 150.

This page last updated Wednesday, December 24, 2008. Copyright 1990-2009 David M. Roomes.

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