#shazzaran

[nicoandmara]

Vladari Afterlife Beliefs

The Vladari believe that after death, one’s spirit travels to either one of two places: Paradise or the Underworld.

Paradise is the eternal home of those who did good in their lives. If one follows the principles of C’loxi (roughly equivalent to the Hindu concept of ahimsa -- more on that here), is kind to those around them, acts for the good of their family and community, and does not commit any acts that are considered taboo, they will go to Paradise. This realm, which is where the Vladari deities reside, is said to be covered in vivid green forests and oceans of clear sparkling water. There is also an endless, plentiful supply of food. Finally, one will meet one’s previously deceased family members and ancestors in Paradise.

The Underworld is said to be a dark realm, and the destination of those who have seriously violated Vladari cultural norms or taboos. Mostly, this is the destination of murderers, those who regularly ingest blood or meat, or in general anyone who has made it a regular point in their lives to be cruel to others. There is no “lake of fire” or similar in the Underworld -- most texts do not describe it or simply refer to it as a land of shadows where barely anything grows.

[nicoandmara]

Vladari Funerary Customs

Vladari opt to either be buried or cremated upon their deaths. In prior generations, most opted to be buried. In later generations -- from about 4500 C.E. and onward -- cremation became more customary in the tribe.

Those who opt for burial are wrapped in a simple shroud and then lowered into the ground. As for those who are cremated, their bodies are laid on a funeral pyre which is then set ablaze. A family member -- usually a parent or sibling -- lights the pyre.

Burial of bodies and the scattering of cremated ashes takes place in each village’s Grove of the Ancestors, which is usually a couple of miles outside the village. Each family has its particular designated section in the grove, to ensure that their remains are near those of their immediate ancestors.

All burials and cremations must take place no later than sundown of the same day that the person dies.

[nicoandmara]

Vladari Coming of Age Ceremonies

Vladari are considered adults at age sixteen. Shortly before a Vladari youth's sixteenth birthday, they are undertake a vision quest. Once they return, they prepare for the ceremony by selecting a special outfit and meditating on the vision they received on their quest. On the morning of their sixteenth birthday, they are brought before the elders of the village, the village chief, and the K'loharamna (holy person) while the whole village watches. The youth is asked a series of questions to which they must answer publicly. Once all the questions have been answered, the K'loharamna blesses them and declares that they have attained adult status. The ceremony is followed by a celebration of feasting and dancing to which the entire village is invited.