Occidentalis Faith

The **Westerner Faith**, known in the Occidentalis language as **Occidentalis Fidei**, and commonly known in the modern era as the **Occidentalis Faith**, was the dominant faith of the continent of Occidens from 1AC to 450AC. Like its eastern counterpart, the Anatoliki Pisti, the Occidentalis Faith centred around the obedience to the words of the Philosopher-Kings appointed by the All, and the worship of the All itself.

## Etymology

The faith has generally been referred to as the 'Westerner Faith' (Occidentalis: Occidentalis Fidei), coming from the fact that the faith was solely organised on the continent of Occidens (which itself meant West). Members of the faith were collectively referred to as the 'Westerner faithful' (Occidentalis: Occidentalis fidelis) or alternatively 'Western faithful' (Occidentalis: Occidentis fidelis), while individual members were simply referred to as 'faithful' (Occidentalis: fidelis).

The Occidentalis Faith played a significant role in shaping the governance and societal structure of the region. The close alignment of religious beliefs with political authority meant that the Philosopher-Kings were not only spiritual leaders but also political figures who held considerable influence over the daily lives of the populace. The Occidentalis Faith had a substantial influence on the art and architecture of Occidens. Temples, shrines, and grand structures were erected in honour of the All and the Philosopher-Kings. These structures often featured intricate designs, sculptures, and paintings that celebrated the faith's central figures and teachings.

## Belief

### Creeds

The central creed of the Occidentalis Faith was the belief in the All, the supreme divine being that held authority over the world and all its affairs. This belief underscored the faith's monotheistic foundation and provided a basis for the moral and ethical principles that adherents were expected to follow. Another key creed emphasided obedience to the Philosopher-Kings, who were believed to be divinely appointed rulers. Adherents were required to recognise and submit to the authority of these leaders, as they were seen as intermediaries between the mortal realm and the divine. The creed centred on the belief in the words and teachings of the Philosopher-Kings highlighted the importance of their guidance. Their wisdom and guidance were considered essential for the moral and spiritual well-being of the community.

While mainstream branches adhered to the three core creeds, these foundational beliefs were central to maintaining uniformity and unity within the Occidentalis Faith across different regions. They served as the backbone of the faith's teachings and provided a consistent framework for adherents to follow. Branch-specific creeds could offer local variations while still aligning with the broader tenets of the Occidentalis Faith. These additional creeds reflected the unique historical, cultural, and political contexts of specific regions. Such as the role of the Sancta Conventus, where the subjects of Terra Sancta were required to abide by the Sancta Conventus' word in addition to the already established creeds.

Despite the potential introduction of additional creeds, the foundational core beliefs about the All's authority, obedience to Philosopher-Kings, and adherence to their teachings remained constant across branches. These beliefs acted as a unifying thread connecting adherents of different branches and regions under the broader umbrella of the Occidentalis Faith.

### The All

Adherents of the Occidentalis Faith practiced obedience not only to the Philosopher-Kings but also to the All, the ultimate divine being. Worship, rituals, and sacrifices were conducted as expressions of devotion and submission to the divine will. The faith emphasised the importance of adhering to the moral and ethical guidelines set forth by the Philosopher-Kings and the All.

### Philosopher-Kings

One of the fundamental tenets of the Occidentalis Faith was the belief in the authority of the Philosopher-Kings. These rulers were considered divinely appointed by the All, the supreme deity of the faith, to guide the people and govern the realm. The words and actions of the Philosopher-Kings were regarded as sacred and were meant to be followed obediently. The Philosopher-Kings not only held political authority but were also revered as moral exemplars. Their actions and decisions were seen as reflecting divine wisdom and virtue, serving as models for the populace to emulate.

## Practices

### Communal worship

Services of worship typically follow a pattern or form known as liturgy

### Sacrament or ordinances

In Occidentalismus belief and practice, a *sacrament* is a rite, instituted by the All, that confers grace, constituting a sacred mystery. Views concerning both which rites are sacramental, and what it means for an act to be a sacrament, vary among Occidentalismus denominations and traditions.

The most conventional functional definition of a sacrament is that it is an outward sign, instituted by the All, that conveys an inward, spiritual grace through the All.

## Scriptures

The "Books of the Philosopher-King" are a collection of scriptures considered central to the Occidentalis Faith. These writings are believed to be inspired by the divine and are attributed to the wisdom and guidance of the Philosopher-Kings, who are regarded as intermediaries between the mortal realm and the divine realm. Among these scriptures are four central books that provide comprehensive guidance on various aspects of society, governance, moral conduct, and religious practice. These books serve as a roadmap for adherents on how to lead virtuous lives, create just and orderly societies, and establish governance systems that align with the divine will.

The concept of having central scriptures that guide the faithful is a common feature shared by the Occidentalis Faith and its eastern counterpart, the Anatoliki Pisti. Both faiths emphasising the importance of adhering to divine teachings, and their central scriptures provide a framework for living in accordance with the faith's principles. While the core teachings and principles share similarities, the specific content of the "Books of the Philosopher-King" reflected the unique beliefs, values, and cultural contexts of the Occidentalis Faith. Similarly, the Anatoliki Pisti's scriptures reflected the distinctiveness of its own faith tradition. The "Books of the Philosopher-King" play a pivotal role in shaping the religious, moral, and societal values of the Occidentalis Faith's adherents. They provide a reliable source of guidance for individuals, leaders, and communities, ensuring that the principles of the faith are upheld in all aspects of life. The central scriptures act as a unifying force within the faith, offering a common foundation of beliefs that connects adherents across regions and generations. They contribute to the shared identity of the faith community and help maintain its continuity.

The interpretation of these scriptures might evolve over time due to changing cultural, social, and historical contexts. Religious scholars and leaders play a crucial role in guiding the faithful's understanding of these writings and their application in contemporary situations. Adherents would turn to these scriptures for guidance on their daily lives, interactions, and decision-making processes. They provide a source of comfort, inspiration, and moral compass, helping individuals navigate the complexities of the world while remaining faithful to the teachings of the Philosopher-Kings.

Not too dissimilar from its eastern counterpart, the Anatoliki Pisti, the Occidentalis Faith mantains and believes in several scriptures collectively referred to as the 'Books of the Philosoper-King'. Among these writings are four central books detailing how society and government should be ran, and what is permitted and forbidden by the All. among other things.

### Book of Warad-Iliya

The 'Book of Warad-Iliya', also known as the 'Book of Society and Man', is the central societal book covering topics from agriculture to family structures and households.

Chapters:

* Introduction to Mankind
* Early Humanity
* Organised Civilisation
* Agriculture
* The Family
* The Household
* Language of Man
* Culture of Man

### Book of Ennugi

The 'Book of Ennugi', also known as the 'Book of War and Peace', is the central book surrounding war, peace, crime, justice, corruption, and good.

Chapters:

* Introduction to Conflict
* Consequences of War
* Blessings of Peace
* Crime and Criminals
* Fair Justice for Man
* Corruption in Man
* Goodness of Man

### Book of Gudea

The 'Book of Gudea', also known as the 'Book of Government and Philosophy', is the central book surrounding government, the Philosopher-Kings, and philosophy.

Chapters:

* Introduction to Government
* Structure of Government
* Monarchism and Republicanism
* Corruption from Power
* Philosopher-Kingdoms
* The Philosophy of Man
* National Governments
* Local Governments

### Book of Sargon

The 'Book of Sargon', also known as the 'Book of the Faith and the All', is the central book surrounding faith and religion, mysticism and magic, the story of creation, and the All.

Chapters:

* Introduction to the Divine
* Faith and Religion of the World
* Mysticism and Magic
* The Story of Creation
* Who the All is
* The Splitting of the All
* Deification
* Sanctification

## Temples and denominations

#### History

The split of the Terra Sancta branch of Occidentalismus from the mainstream Occidentalis Faith in 80AC had ideological, cultural, and regional factors contributing to it. Occidentalismus emphasised certain local beliefs, practices, or interpretations that distinguished it from the broader Occidentalis Faith. Terra Sancta's status as a philosopher kingdom with distinct political and cultural characteristics led to the emergence of a faith branch that resonated more closely with the values and aspirations of its people.

The deposition of Zarlagab by Enmerkar marked a significant turning point in Terra Sancta's history. It opened up opportunities for political and religious change, enabling the Sancta Conventus to gain influence. The chaos resulting from Enmerkar's actions provided an environment in which the newly established Sancta Conventus could begin shaping the national politics of Terra Sancta. As a newly formed authoritative body, it asserted its influence over religious and legislative affairs.

Following Enmerkar's death, the Sancta Conventus seized the opportunity to consolidate power further. By declaring itself the supreme religious and legislative authority of Terra Sancta, the Sancta Conventus effectively solidified its control over the nation's direction. Awil-Ishtar's reign further legitimised the Sancta Conventus' authority. The royal decree establishing the Sancta Conventus as the supreme authority on religious, legislative, and defensive matters demonstrated its influence in the governance structure.

Despite the Sancta Conventus' historical influence and status, Emmeduranki's dissolution of the Sancta Conventus without significant opposition indicated a waning of its authority. This was a result of Emmeduranki's consolidation of power, a shift in political dynamics, or a growing sentiment against the Sancta Conventus' role. The lack of resistance to the Sancta Conventus' dissolution highlighted a loss of the assembly's previous influence over the political landscape. The reasons for this lack of opposition could vary, including changing political priorities, internal divisions, or public sentiment.

The reestablishment of the Sancta Conventus by Messanepada came at a time when the assembly's authority and influence had significantly dissipated. The circumstances and political climate might have been less conducive to restoring the power it once held.