Ascensionism

## History

Ascensionism is the umbrella term for a vast number of faiths, schools, cults and sects that descend from the teachings of the Skysage Ghan. One of the oldest religions on **Imeris**, Ascensionism is not one single idea but a vast group of ideas that dominated Caeli thought before the rise of its most formalized derivative, Akarism.

Ascensionism began as the Teachings of Ghan, a number of ancient legends credited to the mythic Skysage. These stories were carried by the Caeli from the deserts and savannahs of Faisah to the peninsula of Penhira, where the Caeli settled and began to build their first civilizations. These teachings were primarily centered around the stars and the sky, containing stories about the origins of the constellations, as well as a number of moral and ethical teachings. One of the central beliefs espoused in these legends is that of the Cosmic Order, the unknowing but interconnected series of functions within the universe that all are part of.

As time passed, the Caeli of Penhira built their cities and towns, though many if not all left large spaces within their cities for natural features alongside the grand spires that dominate Caeli architecture. This was because, while knowledge of the movements of the heavens might grant insights into the nature of the Cosmic Order, to loose sight of the ground will disconnect you from the whole.

## Variations

While the many sects of Ascensionism share some of their legacy in ancient Caeli philosophy, their traditions and beliefs vary wildly. Rather than derivatives of one common faith, these sects are often seperate faiths, but all of them are Ascensionist. Smaller sects tend to be named for the most prominent Sage in their teachings, its followers honouring the lineage of traditions the particular Sage followed and enshrined. Some notable Sects or Variations include:

* **Akarism** - While rarely counted among the sects of Ascensionism due to its distinct flavor after one thousand years, Akarism was technically an attempt to reform Ascensionism into a single faith. The fact this list exists shows they have failed at that.
* **Nadir Ascensionism** - The form of Ascensionism practiced by the wandering Nadir, which favors a closeness with the earth over anything else.
* **Udarism** - An Ascensionist faith which focuses on ancestor worship and the cleansing properties of water.
* **Zahiism** - A school of Ascensionism which purports that spiritual enlightenment requires people to understand their own bodies. Much of their beliefs focus on festivals and physical practices.

## Clergy

As Ascensionism is a decentralized religion, there is no unifying hierarchy or clergy. Devout Ascensionists who study the teachings of Ghan and those that followed him are known as Sages. These Sages are the backbone of Ascensionist teachings, and usually serve as a part of an Ascensionist community, educating successors and guiding their people. This style of governance could even build up to their urban centers, with councils of Sages or Enlightened Sage Kings ruling over Ascensionist cities or principalities. Some sages choose not to educate disciples, preferring isolation and solitude.

## Terminology

* **Sage** - Common Term for an Ascenionist Holy Person. Not necessarily a preacher.