The Religion of Orbulism

In the Brood of Angels Universe, Orbulism is a mystical religion centered around the worship of Orbulus, a magnificent orb of light with a deep, thunderous voice. Orbulus is seen as the supreme deity, embodying the essence of creation, wisdom, and the balance between light and darkness. The followers, known as Believers, primarily consist of women who engage in rituals, sacrifices, and worship at sacred shrines. They also venerate eerie, dark ghostly spirits, known as the Holy Messengers, who serve as intermediaries between Orbulus and humanity.

Core Beliefs

1. Orbulus as the Supreme Deity: Orbulus is the eternal source of light and wisdom. It is believed to exist beyond the physical realm, overseeing the universe and guiding its followers through its divine presence and voice.
2. Duality of Light and Darkness: Orbulism teaches the importance of balance between light and darkness. Light represents knowledge, life, and creation, while darkness symbolizes mystery, transformation, and the unknown. Both are essential for the harmony of the cosmos.
3. Holy Messengers: These ghostly spirits are revered as the emissaries of Orbulus. They convey the deity’s will, wrath, and deliver divine messages, and assist Believers in their spiritual journey. Their eerie and dark nature signifies their role in navigating the mysteries of existence.

Practices and Rituals

1. Sacrifices: Believers offer sacrifices to Orbulus to gain favor, seek guidance, and demonstrate their devotion. These sacrifices range from symbolic offerings like flowers, candles, and crafted items to more significant offerings during major ceremonies.
2. Worship at Shrines: Shrines dedicated to Orbulus are located in secluded, serene places, often surrounded by natural beauty. Believers gather at these shrines to meditate, chant hymns, and perform rituals under the moonlight, which is considered a sacred time for communion with Orbulus.
3. Praise and Invocation of Holy Messengers: Believers regularly invoke the Holy Messengers through chants, dances, rituals and possession. They seek their protection, wisdom, and assistance in interpreting the will of Orbulus.

Sacred Texts and Symbols

1. The Orb Scrolls: The sacred texts of Orbulism, known as the Orb Scrolls, contain the teachings of Orbulus, accounts of divine revelations, and guidelines for rituals and worship. These scrolls are written in an ancient script and are only interpreted by the High Priestesses.
2. Symbol of Orbulus: The primary symbol of Orbulism is a radiant orb surrounded by a halo of darkness, representing the unity of light and darkness. This symbol is often worn as an amulet by Believers and displayed prominently at shrines.

Hierarchy and Community

1. High Priestesses: The religious leaders of Orbulism are known as High Priestesses. They are responsible for interpreting the will of Orbulus, leading rituals, and maintaining the sacred texts and shrines. The selection of a High Priestess is believed to be guided by Orbulus itself, often through visions or signs.
2. Community of Believers: The community is tightly knit, with women taking active roles in maintaining the spiritual and social fabric of the group. Men can be part of the religion, but women hold the primary positions of religious authority.

Festivals and Celebrations

1. Festival of the Radiant Orb: This annual festival celebrates the appearance of Orbulus. Believers gather for a night-long vigil, offering sacrifices, chanting hymns, and participating in a grand procession under the full moon.
2. Night of the Holy Messengers: Held during the darkest night of the year, this festival honors the Holy Messengers. Believers perform rituals to invite these spirits into their bodies, seeking their guidance and blessings for the coming year.

Moral Code

1. Harmony and Balance: Believers are taught to strive for balance in all aspects of life, embracing both the light and darkness within and around them.
2. Reverence for the Unknown: The mysteries of existence and the unknown are to be respected and approached with humility and curiosity.
3. Devotion and Sacrifice: True devotion to Orbulus requires regular sacrifices, not just in ritual but also in acts of kindness, generosity, and selflessness within the community.