Paolu is the religion of the Mani people. It is a prominent religion in the Isles. Paolu was created when the original Azure Princess went on a quest seeking heaven. It is said she visited every mountain peak in An’mani to find it. On her arduous journey, she wrote hundreds of sacred texts which the Kona Monastery was specifically built to preserve.
In the process of mass-producing these texts, monks gradually formed a mature system of ideology. The Mani use Paolu to enhance one’s own magical abilities, and philosophies about science, psychology, and the human race are preached by monks who follow Paolu. Paolu is a philosophy and approach to understanding the world and humans' place in it. It has no central deity.
Paolu’s main tenets are:
Balance: Find balance in all things. For every force, there is an equal and opposing force.
Perspective: Nothing is inherently good or evil.
Mindfulness: Practice mindfulness.
Chi: Every living thing is connected by one invisible, otherworldly force.
Paolu Temples
Paolu temples are public structures that welcome the poor, uneducated, and downtrodden. Built by the free labor of monks, they are often old, humble, and practical structures. Each one is built according to wind-water geomancy; that is, the concept of harmonizing individuals with their surrounding environment. For example, all Paolu temple entrances face east because that is the direction where the sun rises. To followers of Paolu, it indicates a bright future.
Paolu Monks
Paolu monks are ascetics. They eschew most belongings and practice humble arts of cooking, cleaning, farming, building, and writing. Their goal is to spread knowledge and help people on their spiritual journey through life. Paolu monks may be male or female, marry, drink, or do anything that a regular citizen might. They are Paolu because they make an effort to educate and assist others. Paolu masters are wisemen and teachers. They may follow more esoteric teachings that are spiritual in nature.
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