Divinity of Mankind (Philosophy)

This is not a god, but a philosophy, and one so compelling that it generates magical energy which priests of the philosophy can tap like a true god's priests are granted energies by the god.

This philosophy states that mankind (specifically, the human race, including half-elves reared among humans, but excluding dwarves, elves, gnomes, halflings) is nearly a divine being, and should do as much as he can to achieve perfection # physical, mental, and emotional perfection, always and in all ways. The philosophy encourages men to strive for the physical ideal and to learn as much as possible of the world.

So that's the idea that the priests promote. They cooperate in all sorts of educational, artistic, and competitive enterprises, seek to counsel people in every aspect of living their lives, and provide sanctuaries for people to meditate on the priesthood's teachings.

The priests of this philosophy are on good terms with the priests of Ancestors, Arts, Competition, Crafts, Literature/Poetry, Metalwork, Music/Dance, Good, Love, Race (Human), Strength, and Wisdom. The priests of this philosophy dislike the priests of Evil.

Alignment: The philosophy is true neutral. Priests may be lawful good or lawful neutral. The flock may be of any Good or Neutral alignment.

Minimum Ability Scores: Wisdom 12, Strength 12. Wisdom or Strength 16 means +5% experience; Wisdom and Strength 16 means +10% experience.

Races Allowed: Half-elves, humans.

Nonweapon and Weapon Proficiencies: Nonweapon Proficiencies Required: Reading/Writing. Nonweapon Proficiencies Recommended: Religion. Weapon Proficiencies Required: None. Nonweapon Proficiency Group Crossovers: Priest, General.

Duties of the Priest: Guidance, Marriage. Encouragement of the flock (and of mankind in general) always to improve itself spiritually and physically.

Weapon and Armor Restrictions: Weapons Permitted: Dagger/dirk, knife, stiletto, swords (all). Armor Permitted: All armor, all shields. Oriental Campaigns: Also katana, wakizashi. All together, these constitute Good combat abilities.

Other Limitations: None.

Spheres of Influence: Major Access to All, Charm, Healing. Minor Access to Combat, Creation, Divination, Protection. This priesthood has two extra minor accesses and so will not have especially strong Granted Powers.

Powers: Soothing Word (as per the Designing Faiths chapter).

Followers and Strongholds: The followers are received at 8th level, and consist of one third-level priest and seven first-level priests of the same order, one third-level paladin and seven first-level paladins, and one third-level and seven first-level bards. The priest may take the following on adventures: Two priests, two paladins, and two bards of his choice. The priesthood will pay for half of the cost of stronghold construction at 8th level. The stronghold must include large discussion rooms or halls, where priests and those interested in debating the subject may convene and discuss their philosophy, and meditation chambers where visitors may meditate in peace.

Possible Symbols: Human silhouette.

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