The Order of the Elders/The Path

An Overview

The Path is the term used most frequently to described the journey through life when it is based, or measured by the adherence to the teachings of the Gods. The relations between the Order and other faiths generally lies upon how well each faith is believed to teach the Path. A individual who acts -- either knowingly, or unknowingly -- in accordance with the principles taught by the faith is said to be "walking the Path" or "following the Path". Those who do not, or have fallen into blasphemy or heresy are said to have "lost the Path" or "fallen off the Path". It is believed that the Path leads to Asgaard, the city of the Gods. As such, only those who follow the Path -- the road to the Gods -- will find the City in the afterlife.

Interpretations of the Path

The Order of the Elders has many interpretations of it's faith, even amongst it's own faithful, however this is encouraged and such debates are a source of much joy and discussion. The Order at it's core believes in improving the Self; the mind, body, and soul of an individual. To do this one must challenge themselves in life, find ones strength and more importantly -- weaknesses and overcome them; attain to levels of self-enlightenment through recognition of failures and inabilities and to seek within yourself and the Gods the resources to defeat ones own weaknesses.

To do this one follows the Path of Enlightenment, known as the Path, though many refer to this process as following the light. For one follows the Gods and seeks their help to engage in enlightenment. The Path of Enlightenment is also referred to as the Path of Thor, for Thor is the patron God of Travelers and it is seen that those who walk the Path travel within themselves and through the world. Thus they may seek out Thor to aid them in this journey, for the roads we walk in life are watched over by Thor, and thus we should seek his blessings and aid if we find ourselves unsure of which path to travel down.

Many followers seek the blessings of Father Odin, for he aids people who pray and seek for guidance. Those who seek wisdom, knowledge, understanding of the world; they all aspire to the tenets of Odin. Indeed Patience and Wisdom are the most often sought virtues, but many find themselves praying for long hours, or studying the ancient texts for days to achieve the insights he grants. It is those who are confused, confounded, or lost in their journeys who tend to seek out Odin's wisdom when they find their own resources to be stretched. His guiding hand is felt by all of the faithful, for what he teaches is the key to Enlightenment.

As we seek Enlightenment we shall encounter great difficulties in our lives -- this is a test of resolve and strength. These are the challenges that Hildr teaches us to embrace. Her strength, resilience, and endurance on the battlefield are not only for those who fight another man or beast -- but are lessons, virtues even that aid one in overcoming the struggles in life. Thus those who encounter difficulties and troubles in their lives often seek Hildr out for strength and aid in defeating their adversary, whether that is an armed combatant or the endurance to continue on despite great loss or ill fortune.