Welcome to my exploration of a centerpiece of Arindal’s lore called ‘Acadan.’ Steeped in rich traditions, Acadan is a month of fasting that holds profound significance in Arindal’s ancient society. It is a sacred practice that brings us into the depth of Arindal culture and invites us to experience a spiritual governance of communal unity and self-discipline.
Acadan took place during the fifth month of every year, a period believed to symbolize renewal and rebirth in Arindal (previously known as Arcadia before the extinction of the ancient Lootians), marking the transition from the hardships of the colder season to the fertility of the blooming season. This timing underscores the themes of rejuvenation and new beginnings inherent in the practice.
Through observing Acadan’s customs, ancient Lootians would forgo food, invoking a deepened sense of kinship with the Divine and nurturing a newfound recognition of their personal tenacity. Acadan was observed by all Lootians, regardless of social status or occupation, making it a unifying event across Arindal.
Borrowing wisdom from extensive research and analysis on similar fasting rituals on Earth, we find the notion of ‘fasting’ often stretches beyond purely refraining from consumption. It is steeped in the ideals of compassionate self-discipline and personal introspection. Thus, the act of denying self-cravings and reaching self-discipline unfolds into a journey of finding deeper resonance with the spiritual world and rewriting personal narratives into ones of courage, resolve, and enlightenment.
The unique aspect of Acadan compared to other festivals is that Lootians would choose the god they resonated with the most, reflecting a deeply personal spiritual journey. Each Lootian would spend the month connecting with their chosen deity, which could be the Goddess of Agriculture (Tays), the God of Civilization (Kempe), or any other revered figure in Arindal’s mythology. This personalized approach allowed each being in Arcadia to cultivate a unique spiritual experience tailored to their beliefs and needs.
The Lootians were believed to approach Acadan as a tool to foster mindfulness, fostering a profound gratitude that blossomed from understanding deprivation. It was considered an exercise in building the ‘muscles’ of self-control, thereby fostering personal freedom, rendering the individual capable of making choices with acute mindfulness and thoughtfulness. Mirroring Earthly fasting rituals, Acadan also served the function of boosting physical health and longevity, highlighting the distinctive harmony between the mental, spiritual, and physical realms of Lootian health.
A typical Acadan day for a Lootian began before dawn with a light meal known as ‘Suhor,’ after which they would abstain from food and drink until sunset. The day was punctuated with periods of prayer, meditation, and community service, emphasizing spiritual growth and social responsibility. Lootians would pray every four hours to maintain their spiritual connection and ensure their focus remained on their faith throughout the day.
At sunset, the fast was broken with two liters of water before the communal meal called ‘Iftar.’ This tradition of drinking water first helped rehydrate the body and prepared the digestive system for the meal. Before eating, Lootians recited an Acadan chant that honored their chosen god and thanked the deity for giving them the strength to fast and continue their spiritual journey throughout the day.
Every fifth day, Lootians participated in special communal gatherings that reinforced their sense of unity and shared purpose. Families and communities would gather to share food and reflections on their spiritual journeys, fostering a deeper connection and collective growth.
The wind of Acadan did not merely brush over the physical and spiritual plains of the Lootians; it swept societal norms into a whirlwind, remodeling societal decorum and reinforcing bonds among Lootians. By collectively partaking in Acadan, Arins reaffirmed their cultural identity and strengthened the spirit of community. For example, consider Ramadan, an Earth-based event that involves a month of fasting in Islam. It not only cultivates individual discipline but envelops the entire community in an aura of shared discipline and sacrifice, leading to a stronger sense of unity and shared experience.
The tradition of Acadan was initiated by an ancient Arin sage named Elian the Wise, who, according to legend, received a divine vision instructing him to establish a period of fasting and reflection for the betterment of Arindal society. This practice, handed down through generations, became a cornerstone of Lootian cultural and spiritual life.
By the close of Acadan, this heightened level of spirituality and societal cohesion was expected to breathe new life into Lootian society, creating a collective sense of renewal, unity, and moral fortitude. This period likely influenced society to be more selfless, forgiving, and supportive, strengthening the community.
Acadan, so seemingly simple in its practice and so profound in its impact, served as a spiritual and societal compass for Lootian society. It dictated the rhythm of their lives, ebbing and flowing their societal tides in harmony with the phases of Acadan. While we continue to uncover the mysteries of this unique practice, one thing remains clear: in the timeless dance between the sacred and profane, Acadan is an intrinsic thread that weaves the moral and spiritual tapestry of Arcadia.
