Actually, I think that, to some extent, it is similar to the kind of emulation that is done during heroquests; *someone* has to dress like the gods. Among the Heortlings, the gods are immanent and close to their worshippers. *That* is Ohorlanth in the sky, and right now he is blessing my crops with rain; he is blessing *me, personally*, with food and plenty. So, even though a worshipper is playing a game where the "king" is supposed to represent Orlanth would not presume to think he is in any way controlling the god.
I think a culture where the god(s) are thought to be distanced from their worshippers (such as the Rokari) would have restrictions saying that no one should presume to "play" a god. It would definitely get you penance.
In Carmania, it would get you killed.
Roland Volz
Powered by hypermail