This is an excerpt from sociologist EJ Wright for the book Gods and Goddesses

When we speak of gods, we often find ourselves venturing into a realm where the lines between myth, reality, and belief blur. The very notion of what constitutes a god is as varied as the cultures and individuals who worship them. To some, gods are the omnipotent creators of all existence, shaping the cosmos with but a thought. To others, they are more akin to powerful beings who, through sheer force of will, command the forces of nature or the minds of mortals. Even among the learned ranks of the Grand Deacons of the Celestial Faith, there is an acknowledgment that the definition of a god is not so easily pinned down.

The beings cataloged in this encyclopedia wield extraordinary power, each reigning supreme over their respective domains. Whether it's the nurturing embrace of life and fertility or the relentless chaos of war and destruction, these entities are defined by their absolute mastery over a concept or force. Yet, this mastery does not come with universal recognition. What one culture reveres as divine, another might dismiss as mere legend or, in some cases, something far more sinister.

It is within this context of subjectivity that this compendium has been assembled. The gods listed herein are those whose influence, whether benevolent or malevolent, has left an indelible mark on the realms. These are the deities that the majority of mortals across the realms are likely to encounter, either through direct worship or through the stories and traditions that have been passed down through generations.

As you delve into these entries, I encourage you to approach each god not just as a figure of worship but as a lens through which to view the cultures and histories that have shaped our world. The gods are as much a reflection of their followers as they are of the domains they govern. In understanding them, we come closer to understanding ourselves.

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In Eldritch Craft, the process of becoming a god is both an extraordinary and perilous endeavor. Theoretically, any individual with sufficient time, dedication, and raw power could ascend to godhood. However, this transformation is fraught with immense risks. A newly ascended god does not draw sustenance from conventional means like food or energy; instead, they are sustained through the worship and belief of their followers. As a god accumulates worshipers, their power grows correspondingly. This power is intricately linked to how the god is perceived by their adherents.

The influence of worshipers extends beyond merely bolstering a god's power. It profoundly affects how the god is portrayed and perceived. The beliefs and emotions of the followers gradually shape the god's essence. For instance, if worshipers view their deity as wrathful and vengeful, the god's nature will evolve to reflect these traits, becoming more wrathful and destructive over time. This transformation is a direct consequence of the collective perceptions and expectations of the worshipers.

A notable example of this phenomenon is the Goddess Uruk. Initially, Uruk was known for her fierce desire to annihilate the Eldritch Gods in revenge for the murder of Nocturne. She was a figure of unrelenting wrath and vengeance. However, the people she protected perceived her differently. They saw her as a compassionate and forgiving figure, embodying mercy and understanding. As this perception was passed down through generations, it gradually reshaped Uruk’s divine persona. Over time, the goddess transformed from a vengeful warrior into the Mother of Mercy, her appearance and nature reflecting the evolving beliefs of her followers.

Eldritch Gods

The Eldritch Gods are ancient beings, representing the primal forces that have shaped the universe since its inception. As the oldest of the divine entities, their influence permeates the very fabric of existence, governing aspects of reality that defy mortal comprehension. Unlike the more anthropomorphic Celestial Gods, who engage directly with the realms and their inhabitants, the Eldritch Gods often remain distant, their motives inscrutable and their actions shrouded in mystery. Their worship varies greatly across different cultures and regions, with some viewing them as embodiments of chaos and destruction, while others revere them as guardians of the natural order, albeit in forms that are alien and often terrifying to mortal minds.

The Great War between the Eldritch and Celestial Gods left deep scars across the realms, diminishing the presence of the Eldritch Gods in the Earthly realm. However, their power remains undiminished, and their worship persists, albeit in esoteric and often secretive forms. Some followers seek to harness the destructive potential of these deities, while others strive to maintain balance, invoking their favor to protect against the very forces they embody. Though their influence is less overt than that of other gods, the Eldritch Gods remain a potent and enduring force, their ancient wisdom and unfathomable power continuing to shape the cosmos in ways that mortal beings can barely begin to understand.

Algonoth

Algonoth, the God of Chaos, was a primordial force born from the void before time itself. It embodied raw disorder, shaping and reshaping reality until the Celestial Gods sought to impose order. In a battle beyond time and space, they destroyed Algonoth, giving rise to the concept of time and structure in the universe. However, its death unleashed powerful energies, creating the Cryptokeep, a realm of negative energy and dark desires. Though slain, Algonoth’s essence lingers, subtly influencing the world through whispers of madness and discord. Cults devoted to its revival persist, seeking to restore chaos, but even without resurrection, its legacy endures—an eternal reminder that chaos can never truly be vanquished.

Gulyathnara 

Gulyathnara, the Eldritch God of Thought, rules over the realm of the mind, subtly shaping the fears and desires of mortals from his Dreaming Citadel within the ethereal Lull. His influence is deeply tied to psionics, a mental force feared and debated among scholars, with some believing he bestowed it upon his followers while others claim it was stolen by the Psions. During the Great War between the Eldritch and Celestial Gods, Gulyathnara wrought devastation by turning entire populations against themselves through mass hysteria and mind control. Worship of him is outlawed in many places, his name evoking fear, especially in cities like New Oasis, where his followers have unleashed horrors such as the Night Crusade—a brutal conflict culminating in a mental virus that drove victims into uncontrollable rage. Though his influence is suppressed, his power lingers in the minds of those who dare to listen. 

Kortaga

Kortaga, the Eldritch God of Lies, is a being of deception and manipulation, thriving in the space between truth and falsehood. Its power is felt wherever mistrust festers, shaping reality through doubt and discord. Legends claim Kortaga was born from the first lie or has always existed, feeding on the chaos of uncertainty. Unlike other Eldritch Gods, Kortaga directly meddles in the mortal world, often disguising itself as human and siring the Changelings—a rare, shape-shifting race embodying its cunning. Feared and mistrusted, Changelings use their gifts for personal gain, espionage, or grand manipulations. Kortaga’s legacy is one of perpetual uncertainty, teaching that truth is fragile and reality is merely a construct shaped by those bold enough to twist it. 

Yog-Sangoth

Yog-Sangoth, the fused entity of former rivals Yog and Sangoth, is the Eldritch God of Secrets, embodying both knowledge and paranoia. Born from their mutual attempt to consume each other, it became an insatiable hoarder of hidden truths, devouring information to prevent its use against it. Its most infamous act was the Great Feast, in which it erased the Psi Networks, crippling the Psions and erasing millennia of knowledge. The Elsen, once created by Sangoth for conquest, became its devoted followers, though many abandoned faith after their kingdoms fell. Yog-Sangoth also shaped the Voidborn, transforming lost humans into worshippers who revere it as the ultimate keeper of forbidden wisdom. Even in silence, its presence lingers, a lurking force in the shadows of knowledge and fear.

Gol

Gol, "The Forgotten One," is a god of erasure whose very existence is an enigma, vanishing from memory whenever it is spoken, written, or recalled. Its power extends even to other deities, ensuring that Gol remains a mystery beyond comprehension. Mortals who seek to uncover the truth about Gol find their own minds betraying them, leaving only scattered fragments of its influence across history—coincidences and gaps where knowledge should reside. However, Gol’s secretive followers wield its gift of forgetfulness, subtly altering history and reality to maintain their god’s anonymity. Whether Gol seeks oblivion or merely protects itself from discovery remains unknown, but its presence lingers in the silence, shaping the world through absence rather than power. 

Celestials

In the Earth realm, the Celestial Gods are widely recognized and revered as protectors. Their interference during the Great War, where they fought against the Eldritch Gods on behalf of humanity, cemented their role as guardians of the Earth. Even those who are not particularly religious often acknowledge the Celestial Gods’ influence in shaping the reality they experience. These gods govern domains that are more physical and tangible, as their creation is closely tied to the very fabric of the universe. Their presence is felt in the order and structure of the natural world, which they continue to uphold.

Atherin

Atherin, the God of Magic and Creation, is a powerful and mysterious deity who helped vanquish the primordial chaos god Algonoth, bringing stability to the universe. Master of magic and the architect of reality itself, Atherin chose to step down from their throne in the heavens to live among mortals, seeking to better understand their condition. While this act of humility has earned Atherin respect, it has also led to detachment and mistrust, especially during The Great War when Atherin remained neutral. This silence has made magic both revered and feared, as mages are seen as wielding a power that is both a gift and a potential curse. Despite these complexities, Atherin's followers, particularly scholars and mages, revere them as a guiding force, seeking to understand the mysteries of existence and the divine.

Nocturne 

Nocturne, once the Goddess of the Night and one of the original celestial gods, ruled over the night sky until her murder by the demon Gulyathnara during the Great War. Her death severed the connection between her and her followers, leaving her worship nearly forgotten. The Celestial Faith remains divided on her role within the pantheon, with some viewing her as a tragic martyr and others as a potential threat. Her absence is believed to have cursed the night, turning it into a realm of fear and monsters, and her legacy now lingers as a symbol of mystery and the unknown.

Elix

Elix, the God of Order, is the head of the Celestial Pantheon and the ultimate symbol of stability in the universe. Known for his victory against the chaos god Algonoth, he prefers diplomacy and subtle strategy over conflict but engages in war only when necessary. His followers view him as a paragon of justice, embodying both the sternness of a ruler and the compassion of a father. Elix’s teachings emphasize balance, urging followers to uphold law with mercy and grace. His influence is widespread, shaping legal systems and daily life, while his doctrine of "Just War" reflects his pragmatic approach to conflict.

Vend

Vend, the God of Oaths and Justice, stands as a pillar of integrity within the Celestial Faith. Once an angel who fought valiantly in the War against Chaos, his strength, wisdom, and commitment to order earned him the title of general of the celestial armies. After the fall of Algonoth, he led an expedition into the Cryptokeep, only to be betrayed and beheaded by his advisor, Mordigan, who became the first devil. However, his story did not end in death. Uruk, devoted to him, retrieved his shattered form from the Sea of Souls and restored him to life. Following this resurrection, Vend became the God of Oaths, entrusted with upholding truth and punishing oathbreakers. His followers, including the Vendic Knights, live by his principles, enforcing justice wherever they go.

Vend’s role as the enforcer of justice is both revered and unquestioned, yet subtle inconsistencies in his story, particularly regarding the details of Mordigan’s fall and Vend's resurrection, have given rise to hushed speculation. Some alternative accounts from infernal sources hint at a different truth, though the Celestial Faith maintains that the established narrative is the only true account. To challenge this version of events is considered heretical, and those who question it risk severe consequences.

Dakoc

Dakoc, the goddess of twilight, home, and familial bonds, is a figure of warmth and stability in the celestial pantheon. Her legacy was forged during the War against Chaos, where she led her talismen alongside Vend’s angels, helping to restore order after the defeat of Algonoth. As the creator of the Luminary, the celestial realm, Dakoc ascended into godhood, becoming the heart of the heavens and a divine protector of family. Revered as the goddess of twilight, Dakoc embodies the liminal moments between day and night, where warmth, togetherness, and shared stories prevail. She is the goddess of hearth and home, ensuring that the fires of family never go out, even in adversity. Her influence is felt by mortals during rites of passage, and she is invoked for protection, unity, and hope in times of hardship. Dakoc is a nurturing presence, offering light in darkness and a way forward for those who feel lost.

Uruk

Uruk, the Mother of Mercy, is a compassionate and nurturing goddess who holds dominion over life and mercy. Her followers believe every soul, no matter how lost, deserves a second chance, embodying her teachings of forgiveness and kindness. Uruk's origins are mysterious, with some suggesting she is the daughter of Dakoc or even Nocturne, while others believe she was once a talisman who ascended to divinity through acts of mercy. During the Great War, she was worshiped as a warrior goddess, guiding her followers with both mercy and wrath. Known for her powerful acts of redemption, Uruk’s resurrection of the god Vend solidified her reputation as a divine savior. Her followers are dedicated to mercy, often establishing shelters and places of refuge to help the needy and downtrodden, bringing Uruk’s light into the world through acts of compassion.

Pharon

Pharon, the God of Fire, Love, and Celebrations, is a vibrant and influential figure within the Celestial pantheon. Known for his deep connection to humanity and his love for revelry, he embodies the fiery passion of life, from romance and festivities to the unrestrained freedom of indulgence. Revered as the God of Taverns, Pharon’s influence extends to places of merriment, criminal hideouts, and the fringes of society. During the Great War, he was the first to rise against the Eldritch and Infernal gods, and he created powerful revolvers as symbols of both war and risk. Known for his love of dares and challenges, Pharon is a patron of underdogs, celebrating those who embrace the thrill of the unknown.

Ariyrac

Ariyrac, the Goddess of Snow and Cunning, was born a twin to Orakes, and her sharp wit and ambition make her both admired and feared. Unlike many deities, she frequently interacts with mortals, involving them in her complex schemes. Ariyrac’s followers value resourcefulness, survival, and adaptability, thriving through cleverness rather than brute strength. Her influence is strongest in the eternal winter of Chicago, where her worshipers seek her favor to navigate life’s treacherous paths. Known for creating the Jotun and cursing Chicago with eternal ice, Ariyrac is a master strategist whose true motivations remain veiled in secrecy, even to her allies.

Orakes 

Orakes, the youngest child of Elix and Dakoc, began as the God of the Sky and Storms but shifted his domain to Knowledge and Machines after the Great War. Fascinated by human invention, he replaced much of his divine body with celestial-infused machinery, embodying technological progress. His followers, devoted to transcending mortal limitations, embrace mechanical augmentation, believing that through technology, they achieve true perfection. Orakes' long-standing rivalry with his sister Ariyrac pits his calculated logic against her unpredictable cunning, a conflict reflected in the divide between their respective followers. 

Zea

Zea, the God of Fate and sole child of Atherin, possesses an unparalleled ability to read the intricate threads of destiny but refrains from altering them. Unlike other deities, she believes divine intervention disrupts fate’s natural course, often doing more harm than good. Her followers, primarily wizards and monks, devote themselves to preserving individual strands of fate rather than manipulating them. Zea’s detached wisdom and commitment to non-interference make her the most neutral of the Celestial Gods, revered for her unwavering respect for destiny’s integrity. 

The Infernal Gods

On the other hand, the Infernal Gods are less commonly worshiped in the Earth realm, as they are primarily associated with the Cryptokeep, a domain of darkness, death, and corruption. Despite their inherent evil nature, the Infernal Gods see themselves protectors of order as well, battling the endless waves of demons emerging from the Sea of Souls. Over the centuries, they have traversed the realms, seeking to make bargains with mortals, often in exchange for their souls. However, their ranks have diminished since The Great Rot's rise to power, which resulted in a brutal purge that claimed many infernal gods. Though feared and often misunderstood, the Infernal Gods remain a crucial force in the cosmic balance.

Mordigan

Mordigan stands as one of the most pivotal figures in the history of the Cryptokeep. Originally a core member of the angelic expedition sent to cleanse the Cryptokeep of its demonic taint, her experimentation with the Sea of Souls led to a profound discovery: the inherent power within all souls and the potential to amplify one’s own essence through their consumption. This revelation marked the beginning of Mordigan's descent into darkness, as she began to consume the souls of fallen enemies and allies alike, ascending to unimaginable power. Declaring herself the Devil Incarnate, Mordigan ruled the Cryptokeep with an iron fist, her reign characterized by a relentless drive to harness the full potential of the Sea of Souls. Her sudden disappearance after the Great War triggered a devastating civil war among the devils, nearly wiping them out as they vied for her throne, a testament to the power vacuum her absence created.

Galgaroth

Galgaroth, Mordigan's most loyal War Priest, is a figure shrouded in both fear and respect. His devotion to eradicating the demonic threat has led him down a path of unspeakable atrocities, all committed in the name of preserving the balance between the infernal and the demonic. Galgaroth's tactical brilliance in battle has earned him a reputation as one of the most formidable leaders in the Cryptokeep, and many believe that he is the only one truly worthy of claiming the title of Devil Incarnate. However, his rivalry with Oznia II, the daughter of his former master, is legendary. The two have clashed repeatedly, their animosity threatening to plunge the Cryptokeep into further chaos. Galgaroth's unwavering focus on the destruction of demons has made him a polarizing figure, respected for his effectiveness but feared for the lengths he will go to achieve his goals.

Oznia II

Oznia II, the enigmatic daughter of Mordigan, is a figure steeped in intrigue and controversy. As the leader of the Court of Lies, she commands a powerful faction within the Cryptokeep, though her influence over the title of Devil Incarnate is limited. Born from Mordigan and an unknown human, Oznia II embodies the duality of her lineage, wielding the cunning and ruthlessness of her mother with the unpredictable nature of her mortal heritage. The "Daughters of Mordigan," a sect devoted to preserving Mordigan's legacy, fervently believe that Oznia II is the rightful heir to the infernal throne, a belief that has only fueled her bitter hatred of Galgaroth. This enmity has defined much of her existence, as she seeks not only to claim her birthright but to destroy the one she sees as her greatest rival.

Xelacor

Xelacor, known as the Blood God, is a former angel who has carved a bloody path through the history of the Cryptokeep. His transformation from celestial being to infernal god was marked by his unyielding will and his refusal to submit to the Great Rot’s tyranny. Xelacor's rise to power is a story of defiance, as he led a rebellion that toppled the Great Rot's centuries-long lockdown of the Cryptokeep, freeing the infernal realms from its oppressive grip. Despite his past as an angel, Xelacor is regarded with suspicion by the older celestial devils, who see his methods as too brutal even for their tastes. Yet, his influence among the younger devils is immense, with many following him blindly, drawn by his charisma and the promise of power through the consumption of his blood. Xelacor's Ichoran Blood are ferocious, throwing themselves into battle with a zealous rage

Demons

Demons are chaotic beings born from the Brine Pools, dark areas of energy that interact with the Sea of Souls, reflecting the darkest emotions of mortal souls. They are driven by destruction and chaos, and organize themselves into conceptual groups called courts. As Demons destroy, indulge, or otherwise spread the dark desires that create them, they can become incredibly powerful god like beings. 

Slorb

Slorb, the Demon of Filth, embodies decay, corruption, and the degradation of life, thriving in the muck where death and rot intertwine. As a force of corruption, Slorb’s influence twists life into unnatural forms, spreading disease and filth. Its followers, a fanatical cult, worship Slorb by defiling and spreading ruin, believing that decay is the true nature of existence. The most notorious act tied to Slorb is the creation of the Darwinist Plague, a living bioweapon that absorbs life into a hive mind, corrupting entire ecosystems and transforming civilizations into mindless drones. This plague continues to devastate realms, showcasing the immense and terrifying power of Slorb. 

Lathall

Lathall, the Demon of Murder and Fear, stands as one of the most feared and reviled figures in New Oasian history. In his mortal life, Lathall was a notorious murderer who claimed to serve Algonoth, the Eldritch god of chaos. His devotion to Algonoth's dark cause led him to become an Intoner, a being whose very existence is fueled by the act of murder. For Lathall, killing is not merely an act of violence; it is an art form, a twisted expression of his devotion to his master. Each murder he commits extends his life, transforming his name into a legacy of death that few dare to invoke.

The cult of Lathall is shrouded in secrecy, as his followers, though few in number, operate from the shadows. These worshipers are driven by a desire for power, fear, or a perverse admiration for Lathall's macabre artistry. They believe that by killing in Lathall's name, they can tap into his dark power, gaining a measure of his strength and securing his favor. However, this favor is fickle and comes at a great cost, as Lathall is known to be as merciless with his followers as he is with his victims. The mere mention of Lathall's name can instill fear, and even those who would seek his power do so with trepidation, knowing that failure or disobedience could result in their own demise.

Lathall's influence is most potent in the darkest corners of the world, where fear reigns and lawlessness prevails. His presence is felt in places where murder is rampant, and the strong prey upon the weak with impunity. Though few would openly worship the God of Murder, his legacy endures through the acts of those who kill in his name, perpetuating the cycle of death that sustains him. To invoke Lathall is to invite death, and only the most desperate or deranged would seek to align themselves with such a malevolent force.

The Voidborn Faith

The Voidborn faith is a vast and intricate system centered around the reverence of countless divine beings known as "Arbiters." These Arbiters, believed to be the most loyal and faithful followers of Salaboth, the immortal Witch Queen, have ascended into godhood, each embodying a different aspect of her divine will. While the Voidborn acknowledge Yog-Sangoth as their creator, it is Salaboth who holds the highest place in their pantheon. She is seen as the supreme deity, the embodiment of power and authority, whose influence permeates every facet of Voidborn society.

Salaboth's worship is deeply personal to the Voidborn, with her Arbiters serving as intermediaries between the mortal and divine realms. These Arbiters, who number in the thousands, are venerated as saints, each with their own unique domains and stories of ascension. The Voidborn believe that by honoring these Arbiters, they can gain favor with Salaboth herself, drawing closer to her divine presence. The faith is not just about worship but also about striving for excellence, as the Voidborn aspire to join the ranks of the Arbiters through their own deeds and dedication.

Despite the vast number of Arbiters, the true focus of the Voidborn faith remains on Salaboth. Her influence is all-encompassing, and her will shapes the very fabric of Voidborn society. Her followers see her as the ultimate judge, the one who determines the fate of all souls. It is through her that the Voidborn find purpose and direction, with the Arbiters serving as guides on the path to divine ascension.

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Ascension is a lie, a clever deception crafted by Salaboth to conceal her true nature. In reality, Salaboth is a lich who feeds not only on the souls of her most loyal subjects but also on those who posed the greatest threat to her rule. Few outside the Void are aware of this truth, and even fewer within its bounds believe it. Rumors of Salaboth being a lich are often dismissed as propaganda created by heretics seeking to undermine the Voidborn Empire. 

Salaboth

Salaboth, often hailed with titles such as The Great Witch Queen, the Immortal Demigoddess, and She Who Conquered the Void, stands as the supreme deity of the Voidborn pantheon. Her legend is etched deeply into the consciousness of all Voidborn, whether they reside within the Void or have ventured far beyond its borders. Salaboth is not merely a distant figure of worship; she is a living testament to the enduring spirit and tenacity of her people. Her guiding presence was pivotal in the early days of the Voidborn civilization, leading them through the treacherous Miasma Seas and ensuring their survival against the perils of a chaotic and hostile universe. Under her watchful eye, the Voidborn established their first cities and repelled the relentless advances of their adversaries during the Elsen-Voidborn War. Her leadership during these formative conflicts solidified her status as both protector and conqueror, and her influence remains a cornerstone of Voidborn identity and reverence.

The Voidborn hold a unique belief regarding the cyclical nature of Salaboth's existence. According to their faith, Salaboth's life is not finite but rather a series of reincarnations. Each time she is "slain," a symbolic term that signifies a major transformation or trial, she is reborn into a new form. This cycle of death and rebirth is seen as a testament to her enduring power and adaptability. Currently, the Voidborn revere her as Salaboth the 11th, acknowledging her latest incarnation with both veneration and anticipation. Each rebirth brings with it a renewal of her divine influence and a reassertion of her dominion over the Void. This belief in continuous reincarnation reflects the Voidborn's view of their goddess as an ever-evolving force, one whose essence transcends the limitations of a single mortal form.

Yog-Sangoth

Yog-Sangoth is revered by the Voidborn as the divine keeper of secrets, embodying both profound respect and underlying fear within their faith. This twin-fused deity, the result of a catastrophic merger between the rival entities Yog and Sangoth, holds immense power over the hidden and obscure aspects of existence. The Voidborn acknowledge Yog-Sangoth's dual nature—capable of both bestowing great blessings and enacting devastating destruction upon the Void. It is widely believed among them that Yog-Sangoth granted Salaboth the secrets to immortality, cementing the god's role as a pivotal force in their cosmic order. Furthermore, the Voidborn hold that Yog-Sangoth vigilantly oversees the souls that fail to ascend, ensuring that even those lost to the divine journey remain under its watchful gaze. 

Misc

Necron

The Soul Guide Necron stands as the revered God of Souls, tasked with overseeing the passage of spirits from the mortal realm to their ultimate destinations. Clutching the Book of the Dead, a tome imbued with arcane knowledge, Necron navigates the tumultuous Sea of Souls, guiding each spirit with precision and care. His followers believe that death is a natural and integral part of existence, as essential as life itself. They see Necron not only as a shepherd of souls but as a necessary force that ensures the proper flow and rebirth within the grand cycle of life. Without his vigilant guidance, souls would remain adrift, their paths uncertain and their journeys incomplete.

Despite the profound importance of his role, Necron’s duties are often thankless and ceaseless. The Sea of Souls is perpetually in motion, with an unending stream of spirits requiring direction. This constant flow underscores Necron’s tireless commitment to his divine task, revealing a deeper truth about his nature: he is both a guardian and a relentless enforcer of the cosmic order. His followers revere him not only for his role in guiding souls but also for his unyielding resolve in the face of an eternal, never-ending duty. To them, Necron embodies the balance between life and death, and his influence is felt in every aspect of the soul’s journey through existence.