Om Nyama

Om Nyama is the name of the unique set of standards that define much of the internal politics and worldview of House Ndewane. 
Literally, it translates to 'pitch black' or 'THE black', though it is mostly used as in 'the right / good colour'. Nobles who do not adhere to or match up to those standards are generally seen as unfit to rule and are usually ostracized from all social functions, effectively barring them from any political advancement. 
Om Nyama encompasses physical as well as psychological traits and is as much a beauty standard as it is a philosophy of life. 
Very roughly condensed, the core demands of Om Nyama are as following, from the most basic 'entry level' demands to the highest held values: 
*Physical Perfection - the entry bar to even being looked at is nothing less than perfection. Flaws like a crooked nose, a round waist, body hair, unclean skin or a receeding hairline are the sign of inferior genetics, and true Ndewane don't have those.
*Physical Excellence - Physical fitness is expected of everyone in the house, and each member strives to remain as fit as they can. Many Ndewane are athletes and fighters at the very pinnacle of human capabilities, some even beyond. 
Much of these two first tenets is influenced by the teachings of the warrior princesses of Dahomey, both historically and current. 
*Physical Beauty - Flawless is good, but beautiful is better. This tenet has given birth to a unique style that, after a hundred generations, even genetically sets the Ndewane apart from mere humans. Standing well over two meters tall, with perfectly toned bodies, long limbs, pitch black skin that shines red or purple in the right light, with elongated heads and long earlobes, a true Ndewane is unmistakeable. Circular nostrils, black or golden eyes, long fingers - a million things make up perfect beauty, and each detail counts.
*Mental Excellence - With bodies that are flawlessly beautiful and healthy, those who want to truly set themselves apart must deliver more. Intelligence, alacrity and discipline are expected of those who want to rise in the ranks. Every knowledge and skill is valuable, and any member of the House worth their name is expected to at least have a sufficiently broad education to know what others are talking about. 
*Social Competence - Remaining calm and in control is a skill highly valued among the Ndewane, and those who show their hand lose their face in return. Leaders of men never show weakness, and any sign of insecurity, surprise or hesitation is a damning display of exactly that. 
*Professional Competence - Highest value is put on professional knowledge and skills. A calm, beautiful warrior will gain immense respect if they are able to argue molecular biology one moment and the finer points of pottery glazes the next. 
The opposite, 'ephukíle' is an epithet for all 'lesser' races. 
==Other Articles on Om Nyama==
Om Nyama
Category:Items
Category:House Ndewane