Orc Religions

Orc religion was brought with the migrating hordes as they fled eastwards, pushed by centaurs and other threats from their homelands. Kept mostly intact, religion gave the Orcs some semblance of unification, helping to bind clans and families together. As the Orcs have spread and separated, however, their religion has changed and shifted. While at its root is relies on balance, the nature of the gods have changed somewhat. Some, such as the Sekani, have taken on some of the ancient Comati deities alongside Tabati and Api. Others like the Kayung have created an entirely new pantheon, isolated and distant in their rocky coastal homes. Nonetheless, the main Orc factions hold to their traditional religion, and follow the customs and rituals that have been handed down through generations.

Religion

Orc religion is based around two figures, Api and Tabati, representing the physical and metaphysical worlds respectively. Api is male and Tabati female, representing the dualistic aspect of Orc society and the need for each role to be strongly defined. The sun and moon are their personifications, with rituals to each taking place during their respective cycles. Orc religion is characterized by usage of hallucinogenic plants, fermented in honey or alcohol to produce various effects. These hallucinations are thought to be visions granted by the gods, and are sacred in nature. Orc shamans are usually female in service to Tabati, with Api governing the warriors of the various bands.

Tabati

Tabati is the counterpart to Api, reigning in his aggression and providing him with wisdom and guidance. She governs the mystical and spiritual worlds. Consider the embodiment of femininity, her shamans are granted great respect among the Orcs. She is depicted as an old crone, with a third eye peering from beneath a deep cowl. Her domain is the night, and she rules over women’s roles in Orc society. Her symbol is a red crescent moon.

Api

Api is the main god of most Orcs, governing the physical world. A violent and destructive god, he prizes power and strength over other qualities. He rules most aspects of Orc tribal life, being seen as the pinnacle of an Orc chieftain. He seeks out individual power, glorifying great deeds and accomplishments. Represented as a one-eyed Orc warrior, his aggression is kept in check by Tabati. Feared throughout the human realms, he is most notably the enemy of the Dwarf kingdoms. His symbol is a red eye.