When the blanket is complete, it is presented to the Elder in a ceremony under the moon Dhanai when it is next at its fullest. The process for completing the blanket begins with the Elder themselves - they weave the first threads.Īs it is then passed from family to family they add their own distinctive contribution - this usually reflects the colors and emblems of each family, and interestingly they incorporate some hair from each family member. This is specifically made for a new Elder so that when they die the blanket is used as a shroud shielding them from any evil spirit that covets their soul - for the Elders do not have the protection of the gods upon their death. It is the Spirit Shroud - a woven woolen blanket that is added to by each family in the settlement. There is one object that symbolizes this bond the most. This forms a bond around each of them that no evil spirit can break. This strength comes from the harmony they have with each other and enacted through community work and cooperation. However, they do not simply rely on their gods to protect them, for they have a great sense of their own spiritual strength, and believe that as a community they can ward off any evil spirit. Their greatest fear is that a spirit will occupy or steal their soul. It is said that the Elders not joining with the gods upon their death is their sacrifice for leading the communities of the Adhani - the price they pay for old age.Īs well as believing in their gods, the Adhani also fear the evil spirits that lurk in their land. They die in their settlement and are laid to rest in a sacred burial ground. Their last few days are spent in celebration with their friends and the Calling itself takes place on their Final Birth Day. The Elder is the only member of the community that can ever die of old age.Įvery other person will be Called to join their god as they approach the end of their productive life. Each settlement of the Adhani people, in the cold northern reaches of Acaria, is led by an Elder.
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