The Nature and Dynamics of the Seldarine

The Seldarine is a pantheon characterized by its diversity and autonomy. Each deity within this celestial assembly acts independently, yet they are bound together by love, curiosity, and friendship. This inherent unity allows them to collaborate seamlessly on tasks or respond to external threats. Corellon Larethian, as the head of the Seldarine, encourages this freedom of action, requiring no deity to perform specific duties. Instead, the gods of the Seldarine gather naturally, responding to the needs and challenges that arise.

Sages and scholars often describe intricate romantic relationships among the Seldarine deities, reflecting their fluid and androgynous nature. Despite a greater number of male deities in most depictions, every member of the pantheon can manifest as either male or female. This androgyny symbolizes the deep-rooted gender equality prevalent in Elven societies.

Membership and Relationships

Formal membership within the Seldarine is bestowed by Corellon Larethian. However, there are notable informal members who belong to other pantheons but are honored with the same respect. For instance, Moranthis of the Dragonwright and Thoth of the Church of Light and Dark, while not formal members, are accorded high regard within Elven worship practices.

The Seldarine maintains strong connections with the deities of the Seelie Court and other sylvan beings. Elven worshippers often extend their prayers to these faerie powers when venerating the Seldarine. This practice fosters a culture of tolerance and respect among the faiths that honor the Seldarine, as well as those of closely allied religions. The Seelie Court is broadly recognized to include a multitude of faerie entities, such as sprites, pixies, dryads, unicorns, and more. While these beings have close ties with the Elves, they are not formally included in the Seldarine.

Divine Intervention and Influence

The gods of the Seldarine are deeply involved in the collective existence of their worshippers, though they rarely interfere directly in the personal affairs of individuals or small groups. Like the Elves themselves, the Seldarine adopt a long-term perspective, engaging in direct intervention only after significant deliberation. Noteworthy instances of their intervention include:

• The Creation and Settlement of Arethane: Shaping a new land for Elven habitation.
• The Descent of the Drow: The transformation of Elves into the subterranean Drow.
• The Summoning to the Elven Court of Kael: Gathering Elven representatives for crucial decisions.
• The Founding of Miryth Dragkor: Establishing a realm with guiding principles.
• The Creation of the Moon-Swords: Crafting legendary weapons of great power.
• The Defense of Arethane During the War of the Mists: Protecting their realm from external threats.
• The Resurfacing of Atlan`ysse: Bringing a lost Elven city back to prominence.

Origins and Mythology

Elven mythology recounts that "The People" originated from the divine blood shed by Corellon Larethian in his battles with Gruumsh, mingled with the tears of Angharradh. Most of the Seldarine harbor a deep-seated enmity towards the goblinkin pantheons, including those of ores, goblins, hobgoblins, bugbears, kobolds, and urds. Some legends suggest that the first Elves were created fully formed in Corellon's image, woven from the elements of sunbeams, moonbeams, forests, clouds, seas, and shadows.

These myths are reflected in the Seldarine's ability to assume grand, natural forms. For instance:

• Rillifane Rallathil might appear as a colossal oak tree.
• Deep Sashelas could manifest as a giant wave of sea water.
• Aerdrie Faenya may take the shape of a drifting white cloud.
• Corellon Larethian might reveal himself as an azure crescent moon or a brilliant star.

The Connection Between Elves, Magic, and Nature

Elven theology profoundly emphasizes the interconnectedness of "The People" with magic and the natural world. Elven faiths often blur the lines between the Elves and their environment, reflecting the belief that the Seldarine are intrinsic Spirits of Arvannaith. Many Elves hold the belief in reincarnation, envisioning themselves returning as animals, plants, faerie folk, or even Elves. Furthermore, Elves are seen as integral parts of the Weave, the magical fabric that permeates and binds the world.

The diverse nature of the Elven pantheon mirrors the varied subraces of Elves, each closely associated with specific deities of the Seldarine. This intricate connection highlights the rich and multifaceted nature of Elven spirituality and the profound relationship they share with their gods.