'Aari

## The 'Aari

The 'Aari are the spiritual custodians of the Nah'aarian faith, a belief system that revolves around the veneration of the sun goddess Nah'aar. They are responsible for upholding the sacred teachings of Nah'aar, guiding the faithful in their spiritual journeys, and overseeing the religious ceremonies that take place in the Dunessh of Nah'aar, the heart of the faith.

The 'Aari are more than mere clergy; they are regarded as spiritual leaders and intermediaries between the mortal realm and the celestial domain of Nah'aar. Their role extends beyond the walls of the Dunessh, encompassing the spiritual guidance of the entire Esh'krin community, both on Xeraxis and beyond.

##### Education and Training

Becoming an 'Aari is a path of dedication and rigorous training. Prospective 'Aari are selected from a young age based on their spiritual inclinations and devotion to the Nah'aarian faith. They undergo an extensive period of education, during which they study the sacred texts, learn the intricacies of ritual and ceremony, and deepen their understanding of the cosmos.

The pinnacle of an 'Aari's journey is the *Rite of Ascension*. This sacred ceremony marks their formal induction into the ranks of the spiritual leadership. It is held at the Great Reflective Pool within the Dunessh of Nah'aar and is attended by the local Esh'krin community. During the ceremony, the initiate is blessed by the Xer'she or Desh and receives the sacred vestments of the 'Aari, including a white robe and a meditative cowl.

##### The Daily Duties

The daily duties of an 'Aari are multifaceted. They are responsible for leading the prayer rituals at their local Dunessh, conducting ceremonies during celestial events, and offering spiritual guidance to the Esh'krin and other people. 'Aari often serve as counselors, helping individuals navigate the complexities of life, fostering inner peace, and promoting harmony within the community.

##### Hierarchy and Leadership

Within the Nah'aarian Brotherhood, there exists a hierarchical structure. At the local level, each tribe on Xeraxis has its own 'Aari who oversees the spiritual needs of the population. In larger cities, a higher-ranking 'Aari, known as a Xer'she, may hold authority over multiple congregations. At the apex of the hierarchy is the Y'sashaa, who is regarded as the spiritual leader of all Esh'krin and Sunbrothers. A special form of Xer'she is the Desh, who only work at the Dunessh of Nah'aar on Xeraxis. Same in rank, they do have a higher status in society because of their work in the most sacred temple of Nah'aar

##### Religious Festivals

The 'Aari play a central role in organizing and presiding over religious festivals that celebrate celestial events, such as solar eclipses or planetary alignments. These festivals draw pilgrims from across Xeraxis and other planets in the Nexarion solar system. The most significant of these gatherings is the Solar Convergence, a once-in-a-lifetime event during which all celestial bodies align, symbolizing the unity of the cosmos under Nah'aar's divine light.

##### Challenges and Responsibilities

The 'Aari face numerous challenges in their role as spiritual leaders. They must balance the preservation of tradition with the evolving needs of their community. In recent times, the Nah'aarian Brotherhood's expansion to other planets has added a new dimension to their responsibilities, requiring them to adapt the faith to accommodate different species and cultures.