Tear of the Prophets
Sacred orbs created by the Prophets that induce visions.
These orbs are central to the Bajoran religion, as they induce visions known as Orb Experiences in those who encounter them. The orbs are considered a direct link to the Prophets and are venerated as holy artifacts.
Quick Facts
- Creator
- The Prophets
- Alternate name
- Orbs
- Effect
- Induce visions (Orb Experiences)
Facts from the source article.
Prophets
The Prophets, also called the wormhole aliens by non-Bajorans, exist within the wormhole connecting the Alpha and Gamma Quadrants, which Bajorans call the Celestial Temple. They experience time differently, as shown in their first encounter with Benjamin Sisko. Though they often claim disinterest in the physical world, they have repeatedly intervened on behalf of Bajor. The Prophets created the Orbs, or Tears of the Prophets, which induce visions in people.
Practices
Religious practices within the Bajoran faith are not fully documented. Regular services are held to teach the Will of the Prophets. Meditation and prayer, whether in groups or privately, are common but not strictly required. A small orthodox minority disapproves of scientific interpretations of the wormhole and the beliefs of other species, but this view has limited support. Traditional Bajoran funeral rites can last over three hours, during which women cry out their grief in a manner similar to Irish keening. Prior to the Cardassian occupation, Bajoran society was stratified by a caste system called d'jara, which was abandoned during the occupation so all could fight in the Resistance. An attempt to reinstate the d'jara system in 2372 jeopardized Bajor's Federation membership application, as caste-based discrimination violates the Federation Charter. Non-canon sources mention a form of excommunication called being declared attainted, which bars a person from attending services, entering a temple, or studying sacred texts.
Hierarchy
The Bajoran religious hierarchy includes several titles. A Prylar is roughly equivalent to a Christian monk. A Ranjen is a rank between Prylar and the next level, responsible for various tasks. A Mylar is a priest or minister. A Vedek is comparable to a cardinal or bishop, and Vedeks form the Vedek Assembly, which handles spiritual issues for the Bajoran people. The Kai, equivalent to a pope or patriarch, is the spiritual leader, elected by the Vedek Assembly from among its members. The Kai holds great influence over the Bajoran government despite having no official power. After Kai Opaka departed, Kai Winn was elected and served until her demise. All ranks are open to both men and women, and clerics may marry and have children. The central figure of the faith is the Emissary, believed to be sent by the Prophets to aid Bajor. Benjamin Sisko, a human Starfleet officer, became the Emissary after making first contact with the Prophets. The Emissary nominally holds more religious and secular power than the Kai or First Minister; even Kai Winn sought guidance from the Emissary, and Akorem Laan briefly reinstated the d'jara caste system when he claimed the title.
Pagh Wraiths
The Pagh Wraiths, also spelled Pah Wraiths, are the enemies of the Prophets. Bajoran texts say they once lived in the Celestial Temple with the Prophets but were expelled and banished to the Fire Caves on Bajor. They are considered false Prophets, analogous to demons, while the Prophets are like angels or gods. Kosst Amojan, meaning The Evil One, was a Prophet who attempted to seize control and was forced out, along with other Pagh Wraiths, similar to fallen angels in Christianity. The Pagh Wraiths have tried to escape the Fire Caves and retake the Celestial Temple, but none succeeded. A minority on Bajor worships them as true Prophets, though they are shunned as heretics. The cult gained popularity after the wormhole closed, as many Bajorans felt abandoned. Dukat formed his own Pagh Wraith cult on Empok Nor. Like the Prophets, the Pagh Wraiths can induce visions, appearing as familiar figures. They seek revenge and can possess corporeal beings; Keiko O'Brien was briefly possessed in an attempt to destroy the Prophets, but Miles O'Brien directed an energy charge at her, destroying the spirit. In another incident, a Pagh Wraith and a Prophet fought on Deep Space Nine, with the Prophet possessing Kira Nerys willingly and the Pagh Wraith possessing Jake Sisko unwillingly.
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