Greyhawk Faiths: Obad-Hai

“The forest does not apologize for its thorns, nor does the wolf regret its hunger. In the wild, all things are as they should be, honest and fierce" - by Jaroo Ashstaff

Obad-hai is the untamed soul of Oerth, the Horned King who commands respect for the wild in all its ferocity and splendour. He is a relentless force of nature that reminds all creatures—predators and prey alike—of their place within the great cycle of life. While he nurtures harmony with nature, he also embodies its raw and unyielding power, teaching his followers to embrace the wilderness not just as a sanctuary of beauty but as a crucible of survival, strength, and balance. To follow Obad-hai is to stand shoulder to shoulder with the primal forces of Oerth, not as their master, but as their humble steward and unyielding protector.

Origin

After Beory, the Oerth Mother, chose to turn away from Pelor and Nerull to focus on what truly mattered to her, she gave birth to her final offspring. From her essence emerged her son, Obad-Hai, who understood his purpose from the moment of his creation. He was to be the nurturer of all the fauna and flora that flourished within his mother's domain, extending his care even to creatures others might deem monstrous.

In some cultures, such as the Flan, there are stories that Obad-Hai is reborn every spring as a youthful Fey-like being, sprouting from the fruit of a sapling that grows from his own grave. By summer, he has matured into a strong young man, known as the Horned King, leading the Hunt against those who would defile Nature. As autumn arrives, he transforms into a weathered and wise elder. That is why he is known in many cultures as the Father of Summer, the Horned Hunter, or the guardian of the land.

Appearance

Note: The depiction varies wildly depending on which culture you belong to. What is listed below is one view.

Obad-Hai is depicted in various forms that represent the cycles of life and the changing seasons:

In his springtime aspect, he appears as a youthful, fey-like boy. He has an ethereal quality, with delicate, elven features and eyes that sparkle with the light of new growth and renewal. His hair is often depicted as a tousled mane of fresh green leaves or soft, budding flowers, and his skin has a verdant hue, reminiscent of new shoots breaking through the soil. He exudes a playful and innocent charm, often playing on the Shawm, a oboe-like woodwind musical instrument (one tube or double tube). He embodies the promise and vitality of spring.

During the summer, he transforms into a strong, vigorous young man, known as the Horned King. In this form, he is muscular and robust, with tanned bark skin that glows with the warmth of the sun. His hair is thick and wild, often depicted as a cascade of dark, curly locks intertwined with leaves and vines. He wears a 'crown of antlers', symbolizing his connection to the wild. He carries a heavy looking hornwood staff he calls the Shalmstaff. His eyes are sharp and fierce, reflecting his determination to protect the natural world against any who would seek to harm it.

As autumn progresses, he takes on the appearance of a weathered and wise old man. His skin becomes rough and lined, like the bark of an ancient tree, and his hair turns silver, resembling the frost-covered leaves of late autumn. He is dressed in brown or russet and looking very much like a hermit. His eyes are deep-set and wise, filled with the knowledge of countless seasons and the quiet strength of the forest enduring through time. He carries his hornwood staff made from a sturdy branch, now gnarled and twisted with age, symbolizing his deep connection to the earth and the cycle of life, death, and rebirth. On his belt still hangs the Shawm.

Although human cultures have the most depictions of him, he is also known among many nonhuman cultures and woodland creatures. Obviously, they depict him in their own ancestry and form.

Relations with other Faiths

He is wild, unpredictable, and only concerned with his own portfolio. It is why he hardly keeps relations with other deities.

Obad-Hai does, however, has a deep, respectful relationship with his mother Beory, the very embodiment of the natural world he seeks to protect. Their relationship is one of mutual respect and understanding, as they share the same overarching goal of maintaining the balance and sanctity of nature. Beory is often seen as the nurturing earth who gave birth to him, while he represents the dynamic forces within nature itself.

He has a respectful but somewhat distant relationship with Pelor. As the god of the sun, Pelor plays a crucial role in the cycles of nature, providing light and warmth that are essential for life. However, Obad-Hai’s focus on the neutrality and balance of nature means that he sometimes views Pelor’s emphasis on good and light as overly simplistic. They coexist peacefully, recognizing that both light and nature are essential to the world, but they do not work closely together.

His relationship with Nerull is complex and adversarial. Nerull, as the god of death and darkness, is often in conflict with the forces of life and nature that Obad-Hai represents. In the myth of the Summer Tree, Nerull slays Obad-Hai each winter, symbolizing the death of nature and the end of the growing season. However, this cycle also represents the natural order and the inevitability of death and rebirth, making their relationship one of necessary opposition rather than outright enmity. Nerull is however evil and murders Obad-hai's avatar for no other reason but because he can.

Other deities he sometimes interact with are:

- Wee Jas, Goddess of death, magic and laws, as they both respect the natural order and in some cultural myths she is involved in the cycle of life.

- Procan, God of the sea, whom he respects for his embodiment of the wild and uncontrollable elements of the natural world but is also carefully watched to ensure that his actions do not unduly harm the balance Obad-Hai strives to maintain.

- Velnius, God of the sky and weather, who he looks to for providing the necessary conditions for nature to thrive. Their relationship is cooperative, while Velnius can be unpredictable at times, bringing both gentle rains and fierce storms, Obad-Hai understands that this variability is part of the natural balance.

Note on Elhonna: Although some whisper there is rivalry between them, the difference is very minor and depends on how you view Elhonna. Some say that Elhonna only has female priests and Obad-Hai has only male. In my version of Greyhawk that is not the case, rather, Elhonna belongs to the elven and/or Fae (including gnome) cultures. This is my version.

Teachings

The god of nature and the wilderness teaches his faithful to live in harmony with nature in all its forms. To follow Obad-Hai is to understand and respect the natural world in its entirety, acknowledging both its beauty and its dangers. His followers are encouraged to embrace the wild, recognizing that nature is not just a place of peace and tranquillity but also one of fierceness and survival.

- He teaches that one should live in harmony with nature, respecting its variety and its cycles. His followers are to observe the natural world closely and learn from its rhythms. They understand that every creature and plant has its place and purpose, and that disrupting this balance can lead to dire consequences. Those who live in unity with nature, honouring its laws and cycles, will find themselves protected by it. However, those who destroy or harm nature's balance deserve swift retribution, meted out in an appropriate manner.

- His followers are taught that nature is to be respected in all its aspects, whether beautiful or harsh. The wilds can be ugly, dangerous, or terrifying, but these aspects are just as important as those that are pleasant and serene. His faithful know that every storm, every predator, and every barren stretch of land plays a role in the grand tapestry of life. They learn to respect these elements for what they are, understanding that the challenges presented by the wild are as much a part of nature as its gentler aspects.

- He teaches that death is a natural part of life, necessary to maintain balance. His followers are not opposed to hunting or harvesting, but they are taught to do so in a way that preserves the natural order. Hunters are instructed to take only what they need and to focus on the weak, the old, the young, or the sickly, rather than targeting strong, healthy animals for trophies. Wasteful slaughter and needless destruction are abhorred, especially if they threaten the survival of a species or disrupt the ecosystem.

The faithful should be Guardians and Protectors of the Wild.

- Hunters, gatherers, loggers, shepherds, and peasants who live close to the land and understand its value see forests, rivers, and fields as sacred, and they see it as their duty to defend these places from overexploitation and destruction. They allow for sustainable use of natural resources but are vigilant against any abuse that threatens the balance of nature.

- His followers are not inherently opposed to civilization or progress, but they strive to ensure that human activities do not destroy the wilderness. They recognize that both nature and civilization have their places and work to prevent them from coming into destructive conflict. A ranger might guide a caravan safely through treacherous terrain, or a druid might help a village prepare for a harsh winter, balancing the needs of people with the preservation of the natural world.

Symbol

Most folk know that the holy symbol of the faithful is an oak leaf and an acorn. It is, however, more complex and the symbol has seen many transformations over the millennia. The following aspects can be recognised as holy symbols:

One of his most common symbols is the oaken leaf, often depicted as a single, stylized oak leaf. This symbol represents strength, endurance, and the continuity of life through the seasons. The oak tree is revered for its longevity and resilience, qualities that align with his teachings about the enduring and cyclical nature of the wild. The leaf is usually worn as a pendant or carved into wooden amulets.

The mature looking face made of leaves or surrounded by foliage is another symbol of his. It symbolizes his presence in all growing things and his connection to the verdant and untamed aspects of nature. This symbol is often carved into wooden idols or fashioned as a mask, used in rituals and ceremonies that honour the changing seasons and the life forces within nature.

The stag’s antlers are a symbol associated with Obad-Hai’s aspect as the Horned King, representing his role as a protector of the wilderness. The antlers signify strength, natural authority, and the untamed power of the wild. They are often depicted on amulets, worn as headpieces in ceremonies, or used in carvings and sculptures. This symbol emphasizes Obad-Hai’s connection to wild animals and his protective nature over all living creatures.

The acorn is a symbol of potential, growth, and the continuity of life, symbolising the seed from which great things grow. It reflects the idea that all life starts from a small beginning and grows according to nature’s cycles. His followers might carry acorns as talismans or use them in rituals to bless new endeavours, signify rebirth, or honour the deity’s role in the natural world.

Finally, a tree has always been an ancient symbol to the faith, often called the Summer Tree and directly connecting to the myths surrounding his death and rebirth. It represents the cycle of life, death, and renewal that the god undergoes annually. This symbol is often depicted as a large tree with deep roots and expansive branches. This symbol is central to the rituals performed at the changing of the seasons, particularly during the spring and autumn equinoxes.

Each of these symbols serves to remind the followers of the natural cycles he represents and the importance of living in harmony with the world around them.

Places of worship

His shrines and temples are typically found in natural settings, reflecting the god's deep connection to nature and the wilderness. They are often simple structures made from wood and have a sober, functional interior and can be found in rustic locations, often in small villages on the fringes of civilization where the wilderness meets human habitation.

There are more elaborate temples as well, built high in the trees, or located in ancient oak groves that have been carefully tended over centuries and typically hidden deep within forests, far from the eyes of men, and are protected by numerous guardian animals and other denizens of the wild who watch over them and observe visitors from a distance.

Worship of Obad-Hai, however, always takes place outdoors, rather than within temples. Followers of the Faith gather in places of natural significance, such as megalithic circles, sacred groves, or any location that holds a connection to the earth. Since the faith claims no sacred books or scrolls, these places preserve wisdom for future generations in the form of carved runes into stones or bark, leaving behind whispers of knowledge for those who seek to understand the mysteries of nature.

Services

Services to the shalm are usually quick and simple, with a minimum of ritual, focusing on the natural cycles of the world rather than a rigid calendar. Gatherings often involve hymns and poems that celebrate all aspects of nature, beginning with references to birth or renewal and concluding with themes of death and completion, reflecting the cycles of life. Prayers are offered in the form of poetry and songs, some of which are only sung on specific days of the year to mark important seasonal changes, like the start of winter.

The atmosphere of a service is one of deep reverence and unity with the natural world, where followers quietly connect with the god and honour the balance and beauty of nature. Yet, this serene devotion is interwoven with a wild and untamed spirit that reflects Obad-Hai’s aspect as the Horned King. At times, the gathering may erupt into a spontaneous, energetic celebration, with worshippers dancing and chanting under the open sky, embodying the raw, primal energy of the wilderness. This duality captures the essence of Obad-Hai—both the gentle steward of life’s cycles and the fierce protector of the wild.

Afterlife

In the afterlife, those who were truly faithful will awaken in The Hidden Wood, a patchwork of thick woods, open glades, and rolling fields in the Outlands. These woods are the Eternal Wilds, a vast, ever-changing realm that embodies the untamed beauty and diversity of nature.

All four seasons exist simultaneously in balance within his realm and in the space of a quarter-mile, snowfields give way to forests draped in fall colour next to orchards heavy with fruit and newly ploughed fields. In this afterlife, spirits roam endless forests, vast grasslands, flowing rivers, and towering mountains, becoming one with the wilderness they revered in life. Here, they experience the cycles of nature in harmony, witnessing the eternal dance of birth, growth, death, and rebirth.

Anathema

- cause damage to natural settings

- kill animals for reasons other than self-defence or sustenance

- encourage imbalance in nature and allow abuse of natural resources

Beliefs

The Great Wheel:

His followers revere the natural cycle of life, death, and rebirth, reflected in the seasons, the turning of moons, and the stages of existence. Spring’s growth, summer’s abundance, autumn’s harvest, and winter’s dormancy mirror life’s inevitable progression. Druids and worshippers see their role as guardians of this eternal process, both in their actions and thoughts, constantly working to preserve the equilibrium of the natural world and respecting the interconnectedness of all life.

Symbolism:

Nature itself is the sacred scripture of Obad-hai. Instead of seeking guidance from a god’s servants directly, his followers interpret omens and divine will through the flight of birds, rippling waters, or the bloom of flowers. Sacred trees such as oaks and ashes symbolize strength and resilience, while mistletoe signifies the connection between the divine and earthly realms. These symbols reinforce the belief that wisdom lies in understanding and honoring the natural order without intermediaries.

Harmony with the Wilds:

To follow Obad-hai is to embrace all aspects of nature, from its serene beauty to its untamed ferocity. Every creature and plant plays a role in maintaining the delicate balance of the ecosystem. Storms, floods, and natural disasters are viewed as necessary parts of the cycle, not as calamities to be feared. His followers seek unity with the wild, striving to protect its balance while accepting its challenges and dangers.

Goals

Protect the balance of nature, endangered species, wildlife and holy places of the Green Faith. Followers of Obad-hai ensure that the delicate equilibrium of ecosystems is preserved, defending the wilderness from those who exploit or harm it recklessly.

Assist people to survive the perils of the wilderness and guide civilization to grow in harmony with nature. The faithful act as guides and protectors, teaching others how to navigate and respect the natural world. They encourage sustainable practices in farming, hunting, and settlement, fostering coexistence between civilization and the untamed wilds.

Destroy the forces that seek to upset the natural balance. Followers take swift action against those who defile or corrupt the wilderness, such as reckless loggers, poachers, and malevolent forces like undead or demons.

Aphorisms

1. “A weed is just a plant whose virtues are not understood.”

This aphorism suggests that all aspects of nature have inherent value and purpose, even if they are not immediately apparent to us. It encourages to seek deeper understanding of all living things, recognizing that what might seem undesirable or worthless may have its own unique role in the natural world. It teaches the importance of looking beyond appearances and appreciating the intrinsic worth of all forms of life.

2. “The creation of a thousand trees is a single acorn."

This saying emphasizes the potential for growth and the cycle of life that is central to nature. It highlights the power of small beginnings and the importance of nurturing the seeds of life. It reflects the god’s appreciation for the cycles of nature, where even the smallest and seemingly insignificant elements can lead to great and lasting things. It encourages patience, care, and respect for all stages of growth.

3. “Nature never deceives us; it is we who deceive ourselves.”

This aphorism underscores the idea that nature is always honest and operates according to its own rules and cycles, without malice or deception. It serves as a reminder that misunderstanding or underestimating the natural world often leads to problems. It encourages to observe and learn from nature as it is, without projecting your own desires or misconceptions onto it.

4. “A river cuts through rock with patience and persistence.”

This saying illustrates the power of persistence and the gradual but unstoppable force of nature. It would teach that natural processes may take time, but they are relentless and effective. It serves as a metaphor for the enduring strength found in patience and consistency. It encourages to adopt these qualities in your own lives, trusting in the steady course of nature’s flow.

Divine relics

There are a few notable divine relics associated with Obad-Hai in official Greyhawk canon, although they are not as numerous or well-known as relics tied to other deities. Here are some that are linked to Obad-Hai or strongly associated with his faith:

Staves of the Unyielding Oak

These are legendary magical items tied to the faith of Obad-Hai, often revered by druids, rangers, and other protectors of the natural world. These staves are crafted from sacred oak trees, imbued with powerful natural magic that reflects the enduring strength and resilience of the forest itself. Each staff is said to possess the spirit of an ancient tree, granting its wielder potent abilities related to growth, protection, and control over nature.

The staves are often used in rituals to preserve the natural balance.

Legends say that the Staves of the Unyielding Oak were created by the greatest druids in service to Obad-Hai, who sought to embody the unbreakable connection between themselves and the natural world. Over time, these staves have been passed down through generations of druids, with only the most worthy protectors of nature being entrusted with their power.

The Leaf-Armor of the Eternal Oak

It is a legendary suit of armor made entirely from the enchanted leaves of a sacred oak tree. Worn by a great druid of Obad-Hai, this armor provides exceptional protection while being lightweight and flexible. It is said to allow the wearer to move as quietly as the wind through the trees, blending into natural environments. The armor is also rumoured to offer resistance to elemental hazards.

The Shalmstaff

This divine relic is directly tied to Obad-Hai and is said to be carved from the first oak tree that sprouted after his creation. Legends say the staff was once wielded by the deity himself, containing vast powers tied to the cycles of nature, weather, animals and plants, and able to restore life to desolate lands. The Shalmstaff is also associated with the seasonal cycles, and its powers may wax and wane in accordance with nature's rhythm.

The Horn of the Hunt

This Horn is a relic associated to the deity's aspect as the Horned King, and leader of the Wild Hunt. Blowing this horn can summon creatures from the wilderness to aid the caller, be they wolves, elk, or even fey spirits. The horn is also believed to grant its wielder mastery over the animals of the forest. In some stories, the horn can also call forth a group of spectral hunters who chase down those who have greatly offended the natural world.