Theodoros was not the son of Aratos II, but the son of Taurion, a pretender to the throne who died during the fighting.
Taurion died during the fighting.
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Theodoros was not the son of Aratos II, but the son of Taurion, a pretender to the throne who died during the fighting.
Taurion died during the fighting.
Well that makes more sense, but who will rule Taurica now?
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Gorgippos II (798 AD – 800 AD)
Gorgippos II (798 AD – 800 AD)
After the death of Theodoros I in 798 AD, Gorgippos Hyrcanis, who had been wielding power as regent for years, seized this tragic opportunity to finally assume full control. With no surviving male heirs of the Alexadris dynasty to claim the throne, Gorgippos declared himself Emperor of Taurica, thus ending the reign of the Alexadris family and ushering in a new era in the empire's history. Gorgippos Hyrcanis, who had long manipulated the empire's politics and effectively ruled in the name of young and weak emperors, now usurped full power, proclaiming himself the new ruler by crowning himself in the empire's capital, Pantikapaion, as Gorgippos II. This act was seen by many as the culmination of his ambitions.
Gorgippos II was a man of great ambition but also exceptional patience. His path to power was long and fraught with challenges, but his political skills, strategy, and ability to manipulate those around him eventually led him to his goal.
Gorgippos began his career at the imperial court during the reign of Aratos II and Tauriskos III, earning trust and position as a master of spies. His skills in intelligence, diplomacy, and court intrigues made him one of the most powerful men at court. He often operated in the shadows, directing events from behind the scenes and skillfully navigating the various factions within the empire. As regent, he had enormous influence over the young emperors, whose reigns he effectively controlled. He used his experience and network of influence to consolidate his power while maintaining the appearance of loyalty to the Alexadris dynasty.
Despite his ambition, Gorgippos II was capable of great calm and patience. He did not rush to seize the throne; instead, he meticulously built his power base and strengthened his position. He was a man who understood that time was his greatest ally. He knew how to wait for the right moment, and his ability to foresee and manipulate events was crucial to his success. His reign was therefore a reflection of both ambition and determination, as well as cold calculation and strategy. Gorgippos II understood that true power lay not only in brute force but in the ability to control information and people.
The ascension of Gorgippos II to the throne marked the beginning of a new dynasty, which would face many challenges. He had to deal with the task of rebuilding the empire after years of plague, rebellion, and internal strife. His ability to manage the state and maintain control over the nobility was crucial for the survival and stabilization of the empire in the coming years.
(Coat of Arms of the New Ruling Dynasty, Hyrcanis)
The Hyrcanis dynasty is one of the oldest and most influential families in the Tauric Empire. Its origins date back to the reign of Alexardos I Alexadris, the founder of the Alexadris dynasty, who ruled the Tauric Empire from 450 AD. The history of the Hyrcanis family is closely linked to the history of the empire and its rulers, as well as to the process of accumulating power that ultimately led to their taking the throne.
The founder of the Hyrcanis family was Satyros, the illegitimate son of Alexardos I Alexadris, who was granted the Duchy of Hyrcania by his father for his loyal service. This coastal province, located on the eastern fringes of the empire, became the first hereditary territory of the family. Although initially marginalized due to his origins, Satyros demonstrated remarkable governance skills, earning respect among both the nobility and at the imperial court.
Over the centuries, the Hyrcanis family faithfully served the Alexadris dynasty. Members of the family held key positions in administration, the military, and the imperial court. Their loyalty was rewarded with additional land grants and titles, systematically increasing their influence. A pivotal moment in the family's history was the civil war during the reign of Theophilos II, during which the Hyrcanis played a key role in maintaining the Alexadris dynasty's power.
For their services, the Hyrcanis family was granted the lands of the Duchy of Hypania and the title of Grand Dukes of Hypania. This was a sign not only of their growing power but also of their proximity to the imperial throne. From this moment on, the Hyrcanis family became one of the most powerful in the empire, controlling strategically important territories and immense wealth.
As time passed, the Hyrcanis family not only strengthened their position in the state but also gradually increased their political ambitions. Their power was built on a strong military base, extensive possessions, and a wide network of alliances. For centuries, the Hyrcanis were guardians of order in the empire but also masters of court intrigue, which allowed them to navigate the complex politics of the empire effectively.
Gorgippos II's power, though theoretically encompassing the entire Tauric Empire, in reality, did not extend beyond the territories he directly controlled. The great noble families, who had served under the empire's banner for centuries, took advantage of the weakening central authority and declared their independence. In practice, each of these families proclaimed themselves rulers of their own territories, plunging the Tauric Empire into a period of final disintegration and chaos.
The most important duchies, such as Scythia, Scythia Minor, Sarmatia, Borysthenia, Oaursa, and other regions on the empire's fringes, effectively declared their independence. The rulers of these territories, often with a long history of autonomy and significant influence, no longer saw any reason to submit to the weak central authority. Instead, they focused on building their independent states, capable of surviving in the new, more chaotic political order.
Despite his efforts to maintain the empire as a whole, Gorgippos II was, in essence, the last emperor of this period who attempted to wield any real power over the former territories of the Tauric Empire. The disintegration of the Tauric Empire had long-lasting consequences for the region. After centuries of dominance and unity, Eastern Europe was divided into many small, competing states. Each had its own interests, alliances, and enemies, leading to further fragmentation and weakening of the region.
In 799 AD, alarming news reached Pantikapaion about the resurgence of the caliphate. The resurgence of the Islamic caliphate under Abdallah ibn Ahmad of the Zafrid dynasty, known as the Zafrid Caliphate, was a significant event in the history of the Islamic world. After a period of fragmentation and internal conflict, Muslims on the Arabian Peninsula managed to reunite under new leadership, which revived the idea of jihad and the expansion of Islam.
After years of internal wars, political fragmentation, and weakening influence in the region, the mid-eighth century saw the rise of the Zafrid dynasty, which ruled part of the Arabian Peninsula. Abdallah ibn Ahmad, a charismatic and determined leader, took power over his people and began to realize his plan to unite all Muslims on the Arabian Peninsula.
However, his ambitions went beyond mere territorial unification. Inspired by the ideas of the caliphate and the duty to spread Islam, Abdallah ibn Ahmad declared himself the new caliph, dating back to the tradition of the first caliphs after the death of the Prophet Muhammad. In a short time, he managed to unite the scattered tribes and emirates of the Arabian Peninsula, creating a powerful state ready to embark on a new wave of jihad.
Under Abdallah ibn Ahmad's leadership, the Zafrid Caliphate became a military and spiritual power. The caliph promoted the idea of renewing jihad to spread Islam beyond the Arabian Peninsula. Thanks to his determination and strategic alliances, the caliphate began to expand into neighboring territories, conquering new lands and bringing Islam to regions that had previously been beyond its influence. The resurgence of the caliphate under Abdallah ibn Ahmad had a profound impact on the Islamic world. The unification of Arabia under a single caliphate sparked a new wave of Islamic expansion.
At the end of 799 AD, Gorgippos II died at the age of 70. The throne passed to his son, Hyrcanos I. Gorgippos II, who had held power with an iron hand for years, left behind a state devastated by internal conflicts, plagues, and rebellious nobles. His death in 799 AD effectively marked the end of the empire, which had ceased to exist as a united political structure.
With the accession of Hyrcanos I, the Tauric Empire entered the so-called "Period of Warring States." This was a time when local rulers, former vassals of the empire, effectively became independent rulers who no longer recognized the central authority of the imperial throne. In practice, the Tauric Empire ceased to exist as a unified state.
Taurica 800 AD
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Info: With this chapter we have finished part of AAR on fallen angel mod. Now I am writing a series of special chapters.
1 - Religions of the world - 800 AD
2 - 3 part state of the world - 800 AD
3 - Great families of the Tauric Empire of the Warring States Period.
After them we will move on to regular chapters concerning the periods 800 - 909 AD. I do not know if I will finish this part before the paradox dlc is released. Either way there will probably be some break.
1 - Religions of the world - 800 AD
2 - 3 part state of the world - 800 AD
3 - Great families of the Tauric Empire of the Warring States Period.
After them we will move on to regular chapters concerning the periods 800 - 909 AD. I do not know if I will finish this part before the paradox dlc is released. Either way there will probably be some break.
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Wow that's gonna be great!
How do you plan to manage the conversion from Fallen Eagle to normal CK3? As a megacampaign enthusiast, this would really interest me.
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The irony of Gorgippos finally officially taking power for himself, only to die two years later because he's an old sloth. Hopefully Hyrcanos is competent enough to navigate this new reality.
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What is Kingdom(?) of Vain? Is this a statement about the leader? It sounds like it could be a Carly Simon song. Thanks
Who will Hyrcanos attack first as he attempts to rebuild the Empire? My guess is Aorsia.
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Such a deep fall.
History repeats itself as the saying goes.
I forgot to write that this is a combination of a mod created from save of impertor and Rajas of Asia mod. A lot of work on the console and creating in the history files of the title basically only for the Byzantine Empire = Tauric Empire.
A state of indigenous Balts that spread and dominated the Baltic Sea coast.
Gorgippos was the oldest man to occupy the throne of the empire so far. As for Hyrcanos, it will be presented maybe in two weeks.
Aorsia is the weakest in all respects and the easiest to conquer, so this is 100% true here.
In fact, it is the kingdom of Smol but I didn't like the name so I changed it to the name of the Daugava river which in the Terra-Indomita mod is called Vain.
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Religions of the World in 800 AD
Religions of the World in 800 AD
Omonarchism was the state religion of the Tauric Empire, developed from the earlier beliefs and traditions of the empire, with influences from both ancient and local practices. This religion played a central role in the political, social, and spiritual life of the empire, combining elements of monotheism with a strong cult of the emperor as a divine ruler. It was founded in 573 AD through the reforms of Emperor Onomarchos III "The Anointed," from whom the faith took its name. By 800 AD, this faith had spread throughout most of Eastern Europe, with its deepest roots in the divided Tauric Empire.
Omonarchism is based on the belief in one God, the creator of the universe, who is impersonal and genderless, regarded as the highest spiritual being. In later centuries, this deity began to be referred to as "Omono." All power and authority were believed to come from this deity, and all reality was considered its creation. Tauric emperors, considered the "son of Omono," were viewed as divine representatives on Earth. Omonarchism taught that imperial authority was of divine origin and that each emperor was chosen by Omono to rule over the people.
The cult of motherhood playe a crucial role in Omonarchism, emphasizing the divine aspect of femininity as the source of life, wisdom, and compassion. In this belief system, Gaia is worshiped as the patron of motherhood, embodying both the nurturing aspects of nature and the creative power of the universe. She is regarded as the caretaker and provider for all living beings, with rituals often focusing on honoring her through acts of care, creation, and protection of life. The motherhood cult also highlights the role of women in society, viewing them as spiritual leaders and guardians. In Omonarchism, as well as in Great Tauric culture, the role of women is considered equal to that of men.
Omonarchism has strong Gnostic elements, particularly in the idea that the material world is flawed or corrupt, and that true knowledge (gnosis) is the path to salvation. Followers believe that the physical world is a lower, imperfect reflection of a higher spiritual reality. Onoma is seen as the key to unlocking this higher reality, revealing hidden truths about the cosmos and oneself. Gnosis in Omonarchism is achieved through meditation, rituals, and the study of sacred texts, which contain encoded divine wisdom.
The priests of Omonarchism, known as Omonarchi, formed a complex hierarchy led by the Grand High Priest, who served as the emperor's chief advisor on spiritual matters. Priests were responsible for conducting rituals, interpreting sacred scriptures, and teaching the people. In 800 AD, the role of the Grand High Priest was held by Pythodelus.
Omonarchism incorporated elements of Christianity, blending them with its own practices and beliefs. This syncretism is evident in the reverence for figures such as Jesus Christ, who is viewed as a manifestation or incarnation of Onoma. However, unlike traditional Christianity, Omonarchism may reinterpret key Christian doctrines, such as the nature of sin, redemption, and the afterlife, in ways that align with its Gnostic and mystical views.
In Omonarchism, there are several key places of worship that play a central role in the spiritual and religious life of the followers. These sacred cities were not only religious centers but also political hubs where important rituals, ceremonies, and assemblies were held:
Pantikapaion: This city boasted an impressive temple dedicated to Omono, attracting pilgrims from across the empire. It hosted annual grand religious festivals, including ceremonies honoring the imperial ancestors, crucial for state unity.
Theodosia: Located on the southern coast of Crimea, this city was known for its monumental temple where emperors were crowned. Theodosia was also home to one of the chief priests of Omonarchism, who had significant influence on the spiritual life of the empire.
Chersonesus: Situated on the western coast of Crimea, this city was not only an important port but also one of the holiest cities in Omonarchism. It was the seat of the Grand High Priest, the highest spiritual leader of Omonarchism, who had direct contact with the emperor.
Borysthenia: Located on the Dnieper River, this strategically important city played a key role in promoting and strengthening the influence of Omonarchism.
Christianity in 800 AD was the most widespread monotheistic religion on the European continent, encompassing various forms and traditions that had evolved over time and spread across different regions. The origins of Christianity are associated with the birth and ministry of Jesus Christ, who was born around 33 BC in Palestine, then a province of the Ptolemaic Empire. The story of Jesus' birth, teachings, death, and resurrection forms the foundation of Christianity, which over the course of a few centuries became one of the world's largest religions.
During the first three centuries, Christianity spread rapidly across the Middle East. The teachings of Christ found fertile ground, as the regions of the Middle East were often embroiled in conflicts, with death being a common occurrence. Christianity grew dynamically, gaining more and more followers among all social strata. By the 3rd century, this faith began to dominate in Egypt, the Middle East, Anatolia, and Greece. In 332 AD, Emperor Volumnius IV Cornelius Scipio converted to the Christian faith after the miraculous healing of his only son and heir. The emperor issued the Roman Edict, guaranteeing religious freedom for Christians and effectively establishing Christianity as the official religion of the Roman Empire.
Main Branches of Christianity in 800 AD:
Roman Catholicism was the dominant form of Christianity in Western Europe in 800 AD. This religion spanned from the Iberian Peninsula through Gaul and Germania to Venedi. The roots of this branch of Christianity trace back to the Roman Empire during the reign of Emperor Volumnius IV Cornelius Scipio, who converted to Christianity and established it as the official religion of the Roman Empire in 322 AD. The central figure in this tradition became the Patriarch of Rome, who eventually came to be known as the Pope, residing in Rome. Roman Christianity spread within the Empire’s borders until the mid-5th century, when the Roman Empire declined due to barbarian invasions, losing much of its territory outside Italy.
A renaissance for this denomination came with the conquests of the Alemannic Kingdom. These Germanic barbarians, within 150 years from 450 AD, managed to conquer the lands of Gaul and part of the Iberian Peninsula. In the late 6th century AD, the ruler of this kingdom invaded the weakened Kingdom of Suevi, which had attacked and ultimately ended the Roman Empire nearly 80 years earlier. King Rathar II, after capturing Rome, in agreement with the then-reigning Patriarch Anastasius, crowned himself Emperor, making himself the successor of the Roman Empire. From that moment in 598 AD, Roman Christianity began transforming into a unified Roman Catholic Church, which the rulers of the Alemannic Empire used to unify their territories. In 800 AD, Pope Anastasius III resides in Rome, extending his authority over the city and its immediate surroundings, with Roman Catholicism being the most widespread religion in Western Europe.
In 800 AD, the Coptic Church was the dominant form of Christianity in Egypt and Nubia, reaching far into the southern parts of Africa. It emerged as a result of Christianity being adopted as the official religion in the Egyptian Empire of the Ptolemies in the mid-4th century AD. From the mid-4th century AD, over the following centuries, the early Egyptian Church evolved, leading to a schism with the Nestorian Church, which gained popularity in the Near East. The rulers of the Egyptian Empire, first the Ptolemies and later subsequent dynasties, used the Coptic Church to unify their lands. The Patriarch and head of the Coptic Church in 800 AD is Andragors I, who titles himself as the Pope of Alexandria. The Patriarchs of Alexandria, who since the establishment of the church by the last representatives of the Ptolemaic dynasty, titled themselves as Patriarchs of Alexandria, which became the religious and spiritual center of the Coptic Church. With the rise of the Patriarch of Rome, the Patriarchs of Alexandria also elevated themselves, serving as the spiritual leaders of the great empire.
Near Eastern Church (Nestorianism): Nestorianism, a branch of Christianity that emerged from Christological disputes, was widespread in the Near East. The name derives from Nestorius, the Patriarch of Antioch, who was condemned by the Patriarch of Alexandria in 531 AD for his teachings about the nature of Christ. It was in 531 AD that the schism between the Coptic Church and the Near Eastern Church occurred, leading to the establishment of the separate Nestorian Church. Nestorianism became the dominant form of Christianity in Mesopotamia, Palestine, and Assyria. The Nestorian Church of the East operated independently of Rome and Alexandria.
The Apostolic Church, with its roots tracing back to apostolic times, had its center in the Anatolia. Its official establishment was facilitated by the Tauric Empire, whose Emperor Molon I allowed the creation of an official church structure in the territories occupied by the Tauric Empire in Anatolia in the 4th century AD. This church, also known as the Anatolian Church, became the state religion in the kingdoms that emerged after the mid-4th century AD crisis, with Gangra and Ibora being the first kingdoms where this church officially operated. The liturgy is conducted in Greek, and the Apostolic Church has strong Monophysite traditions, similar to the Coptic Church. By 800 AD, the Apostolic Church had extended its influence throughout Anatolia, where it originated and had the deepest roots.
The Macedonian Church, associated with the tradition of Christianity in the Balkans, had its center in Thessaloniki. It was established as a separate church structure and hierarchy by the rulers of the revived Macedonian Empire in the late 6th century AD. This church is an important cultural and religious center in the areas of Greece, Cyprus, and Crete. The Macedonian Church has its own liturgy and theological tradition.
Manichaeism, alongside Christianity and Onomarchism, was the third-largest religion by the number of followers in 800 AD. A syncretic religious movement, it originated in the 4th century AD and combined elements of Christianity, Zoroastrianism, Buddhism, and Gnosticism. Its founder was the prophet Mani (316-376 AD), who was born in Mesopotamia, then part of the Gobryasid Empire in Persia. Mani claimed to be the last in a series of prophets, which included Zoroaster, Buddha, and Jesus.
Manichaeism quickly spread to both the East and the West, covering areas from the Roman Empire to China. Its popularity stemmed from its universalist nature and the intellectual appeal of its doctrine. Over time, this religion became the dominant faith in Persia, where by the late 5th century, the rulers of the Gobryasid dynasty established it as the official religion of their empire, replacing Zoroastrianism. The primary reason was the struggle against the influences of Christianity, which at that time extended its reach as far as the Indus.
Islam is one of the three great monotheistic religions, which arose in the 7th century AD on the Arabian Peninsula. Its founder was the prophet Muhammad, who, according to Islamic tradition, received revelations from God (Allah) through the archangel Jibril (Gabriel). In 623 AD, Muhammad united most of the Arabian Peninsula under his spiritual and political leadership, establishing the first Islamic caliphate. In 624 AD, the Prophet began jihad against infidels outside the Arabian Peninsula, leading to conflicts with the Persian and Tauric Empires. In 627 AD, the Prophet was assassinated by unknown assailants.
For 30 years, battles over Muhammad’s succession raged among his companions. The first caliphate was shattered in 693 AD after the defeat of Muslim forces at the Battle of Zirkuh, fought on March 22, 693 AD. By the end of the 9th century, after years of internal wars, political fragmentation, and weakening influence in the region, the rise of the Zafrid dynasty, ruling part of the Arabian Peninsula, occurred in the mid-9th century. Abdallah ibn Ahmad proclaimed himself the new caliph, harking back to the tradition of the first caliphs after Muhammad’s death. In a short time, he succeeded in uniting the scattered tribes and emirates of the Arabian Peninsula, restoring the Islamic caliphate, ready to embark on a new wave of jihad.
Baltic Paganism (Vidilism):
Vidilism refers to the religious beliefs and practices of the Baltic peoples inhabiting the areas around the Baltic Sea. This religion was deeply rooted in nature, the cycles of the seasons, and the agricultural communities that practiced it. Nature played a central role in Baltic paganism. It was believed that gods and spirits inhabited various elements of nature, such as trees, rivers, lakes, mountains, and forests. Sacred groves (alki, miškai) were places of worship where rituals, prayers, and sacrifices were conducted. The Balts avoided building temples, preferring to conduct ceremonies in natural places of power.
Due to contacts between the Tauric Empire and the Baltic peoples, by the end of the 7th century AD, Baltic beliefs were reformed and systematized into a unified reformed faith. This occurred in the powerful Kingdom of Aestuia, which at one point controlled the entire Baltic coast, extending its rule from the Elbe in the west to the lands of Estonia in the east. In 800 AD, Vidilism was the religion practiced and mandated in Baltic countries such as the Kingdom of Venedia, the Aestuian Empire, and Vepsia.
Saami Paganism (Noaidevouhta):
Noaidevouhta refers to the traditional religious beliefs and practices of the indigenous Saami people of northern Europe, primarily in the region of Lapland. This religion was deeply connected to nature, animism, and shamanism. The Saami, as a people inhabiting the harsh Arctic and subarctic regions, developed a unique belief system that reflected their close relationship with nature and the cycles of life in the far north. The Saami regularly made offerings to spirits and gods to gain their favor. These offerings included food, drinks, and animals. Important were also rites of passage, such as those associated with birth, maturity, marriage, and death, which aimed to maintain harmony between the spiritual and physical worlds.
During the 7th and 8th centuries AD, as the Saami tribes unified under the banner of the unified Saami-Finnish Kingdom, their religion and beliefs underwent a transformation from a disparate belief system into a systematic and reformed religion that became a true faith. Noaidevouhta as a religion is present only in the Saami-Finnish Kingdom.
Scandinavian Paganism (Asatru):
Asatru is a set of religious beliefs and practices observed by the peoples of Scandinavia. This religion was inseparably connected with the culture of the Varangians. Scandinavian paganism is a polytheistic religion. The most important gods belonged to two main groups: the Æsir and the Vanir. A key element of the religion is the concept of Ragnarok—the foretold apocalyptic battle in which the Æsir gods would fight against giants and other enemies. Ragnarok was believed to end the current order of the world, bringing death to many gods but also the rebirth of the world and the beginning of a new era. Blot were sacrifices made to the gods to gain their favor. These offerings could include food, drinks, animals, and in some cases, even humans.
Asatru, as a Scandinavian religion, underwent codification and reform of its beliefs by the Norwegian rulers who were the first to create a unified state structure at the end of the 7th century AD. The reformed version of this religion is present in the territories of the Kingdom of Norway.
Brythonic Druidism:
A religious and spiritual tradition practiced by the Celtic communities inhabiting Britain since ancient times. It is a form of Druidism that, like other versions of this religion, combined elements of nature, mysticism, rituals, and animistic beliefs. Druidism was deeply rooted in Celtic society, with druids playing many key roles in the community. In 800 AD, this religion was widespread among the Brythonic kingdoms of Pritanai and Levobrinta.
Gaelic Druidism:
Gaelic Druidism is a variant of Druidism practiced in the northern British Isles and Ireland, especially among the Picts and Gaels. As in other forms of Druidism, Gaelic Druidism has strong ties to nature. Trees, especially oaks, were particularly revered, as were sacred groves, which were places of rituals and spiritual gatherings. The Gaelic spiritual tradition also held an important place for stone circles, mounds, springs, and rivers. These were considered places of power where nature spirits were particularly present. They were seen as gateways to the spirit world and could be used to communicate with ancestors and deities. In 800 AD, this religion was widespread among the Celtic kingdoms of Ivernia, Pictoland, and Bremenium.
Siberian Paganism (Turumism):
Turumism is the reformed religion of the Ugric-Finnic peoples. In the beliefs of these peoples, Num-Torum is regarded as one of the most important and highest deities, often identified as the god of the sky, sun, and light. His name is often translated as "Sky God" or "Lord of the Sky," emphasizing his role as the creator and protector of the world. The cult of Num-Torum is closely connected with nature and included rituals aimed at obtaining his blessing and protection. Offerings were made in places considered sacred, such as hills, groves, or rivers.
The most important rituals associated with Num-Torum included animal sacrifices, prayers, and festivals that commemorated his role as the protector of humanity. These beliefs and religion were codified and reformed as a result of the unification of Ugric-Finnic tribes, first in the unified Kingdom of Ob and later in the Siberian Empire. This religion exists and is practiced exclusively in the Ugric-Finnic Siberian Empire in 800 AD.
Phoenician Paganism:
Phoenician paganism, which is the dominant religion in Carthage, has its roots in the religious beliefs and practices of the ancient Phoenicians. The Phoenicians, known as excellent sailors and merchants, brought their religious traditions to their colonies, including Carthage. The Carthaginians, although they developed their own unique cultural characteristics, retained many elements of Phoenician religion, adapting them to their needs and conditions. Sacrifices are a central element of Carthaginian religious worship. Both animal and plant sacrifices were made, but the most controversial were child sacrifices (known as molk). Children, mainly firstborns, were offered to Baal Hammon in times of crisis or when special favor from the gods was required. Such practices are considered especially sacred and necessary to ensure the survival and prosperity of the city.
Tengriism:
Tengriism is the religion and belief system practiced by the Turkic-Mongol peoples and some Central Asian tribes, who worship the sky as the supreme deity, referred to as "Tengri." Tengriism is not a religion in the conventional sense but rather a collection of beliefs, practices, and worldviews that deeply influence the social, political, and spiritual lives of these peoples.
Buddhism - Major Traditions in 800 AD:
Mahayana Buddhism: Mahayana Buddhism, literally translated as the "Great Way" or "Great Vehicle," is one of the two main branches of Buddhism, alongside Theravada. It originated in India and developed around the 1st century AD as a reform movement within existing Buddhism. Mahayana emphasizes compassion, universal salvation, and the pursuit of becoming a Bodhisattva—a being who, out of love and compassion, strives for enlightenment but delays entering Nirvana to help others achieve liberation. By 800 AD, Mahayana is widespread in Bactria and the Himalayan countries.
Theravada Buddhism: Theravada Buddhism, which literally means "Teaching of the Elders" or "Path of the Elders," is one of the oldest and most conservative branches of Buddhism, directly tracing its roots to the teachings of the Buddha Siddhartha Gautama. It is considered the most orthodox form of Buddhism, preserving many of the original teachings and practices that were written down in the Pali Canon (Tipitaka). This branch gained popularity and spread within the Taraxano Empire, whose rulers adopted it as the primary form of Buddhism, contributing to its free propagation within their empire.
Vajrayana Buddhism: Vajrayana Buddhism, also known as the "Diamond Path" or "Path of the Vajra," is one of the three main branches of Buddhism, alongside Theravada and Mahayana. It is a form of Buddhism that evolved from Mahayana, incorporating unique tantric and esoteric practices. This form of Buddhism was adopted as the main and most important form of this philosophical movement in the Goshwami Empire.
Hinduism:
Vishnuism (or Vaishnavism): Vishnuism is one of the main branches of Hinduism, focusing on the worship of the god Vishnu and his avatars, such as Krishna and Rama. It is one of the oldest religious traditions in India and has a significant influence on the culture, philosophy, and spirituality of the region. Vishnuism is diverse and encompasses many different sects and schools, but they are united by a common belief in Vishnu as the supreme form of God. This form of Hinduism is most popular in the southern part of the Indian subcontinent
Yasenism:
Yasenism is a philosophical-religious movement that emerged from the teachings of the prophet Yasen, who lived in the mid-6th century AD in the Tayuan Empire, a Hellenistic state spanning the regions of Tibet and Fergana. Yasenism combines elements of Hellenistic beliefs with Eastern teachings, particularly Buddhism and Hinduism, creating a syncretic religion that gained popularity throughout the empire.
Yasen was born around 530 AD into a family of to tocharo-hellenic orgin in one of the cities of the Tayuan Empire. His youth was marked by a deep interest in both traditional Greek beliefs and Eastern philosophies, which permeated the empire from neighboring regions. In his travels through Tibet and Fergana, Yasen delved into the teachings of Buddhism and Hinduism, particularly fascinated by the concepts of reincarnation, spiritual rebirth, and karma.
Religious Syncretism:
Yasenism blends elements of Hellenistic religions, such as the worship of the Olympian gods and belief in destiny, with concepts of reincarnation and spiritual rebirth borrowed from Buddhism and Hinduism. According to Yasenism, the soul is eternal and undergoes continuous migration, passing from one body to another until it reaches a state of spiritual perfection. The central idea of Yasenism is the journey of the soul, which can reincarnate not only into newly born individuals but also into already existing ones. It is believed that the soul can manifest in several bodies simultaneously, which is a unique aspect of this religion. The soul follows a path of spiritual development, gaining knowledge and experience through successive incarnations. The ultimate goal is to reach a state called "Clarity," a state of enlightenment similar to Nirvana in Buddhism. Astrology plays a key role in Yasenism. It is believed that the positions of stars and planets influence the fate of souls, determining their path of spiritual development. Yasenians often consult astrologers to understand their spiritual destiny and predict future incarnations. Although Yasenism does not completely reject traditional Greek gods, it focuses on the worship of the prophet Yasen, who is considered the first soul to reach the state of Clarity. Yasen is revered as a teacher who showed humanity the way to spiritual enlightenment. Each incarnation is seen as an opportunity for spiritual rebirth and closeness to the state of Clarity. Spiritual practices, such as meditation, prayer, and offerings, are important for progress on this path.
Spread of Yasenism: After Yasen's death in the late 6th century AD, his teachings quickly gained popularity in the Tayuan Empire. With the support of the empire's rulers, Yasenism spread across vast areas of Tibet and Fergana. Over time, this religion began to influence local beliefs and traditions, creating a complex spiritual mosaic in the region.
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What is the religion in North-Eastern Japan? I can see that Shintoism is in the South-West.
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For some reason, didn't click before the last chapter that the world map covers the entire old world bar southern Africa. That's amazing.
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