theism, resurection

From: Jean.DURUPT_at_st.com
Date: Thu, 30 Apr 1998 18:01:12 +0200


Hi all

+theism

The main difference between Glorantha and the RW is the proven existence of otherworld beings. A Gloranthan scientist can measure a ghost for example.

Many otherworld beings can be worshiped, that is, a Gloranthan character can tie his soul to a spirit and use this link to do magic. The spirit does not need his worshipers to exist. He needs them to break the barrier between Glorantha and the otherworld. In a sense a worship ceremony is a summoning ritual.

The difference between the Malkioni and the theists is not a difference of world views, but a difference in morality. For example, it is morally wrong for a Rokari to worship the Prince of Storms (Orlanth) or any other spirits.
It is morally wrong for a Sartarite to worship the sun(Yelm). The Gloranthans don't deny the existence of other powers, they just say that it is morally wrong to worship and even contact them.

For the Malkioni, the theists gods don't walk the world anymore thanks to Zzabur. When he saved the world, he created a barrier between the otherworld and Glorantha. They object to theistic worship, not because the gods eat their worshipers' souls (after all they could not reach Solace), but because the gods tricked the pagans into summoning them (and if they succeed the world is in danger of being destroyed)

+resurrection

In Glorantha, a worshiper of Death can kill his ennemies at 100 paces with a 3 points spell (ie sever spirit)
A sorceror can create a basilisk who has the same power.

It is normal that Chalana Arroy gives resurect as a 3 points spell, it allows to mend the link between the body and the soul (the opposite of sever spirit).
In RQIII, this spell is very useful for victims of sever spirit. It is less useful for victims of accidents (or combats), since the body has to be healed before the ritual is done. It is next to useless for victims of diseases. The body must be purged of disease, the characteristics must be restored to a positive value before the ritual is attempted.
Resurection is useless for victims of old age.

+The scurvy in Glorantha

I don't think that the scurvy is a disease in Glorantha.

Humans are tied to the earth element. When they sail far from the coast, they are cut off from the earth, it is normal that they begin to wither and die. Eating fresh earth food helps to ward against this ailment.

Peace

        Jean


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