Founding a Religion (part I)

Ah the seeds of heresy...  let us begin.

I've written a fair amount, to date, on creature culture (see blog entries of the same name).  In these, I've covered some basic biologic and environmental stresses that help to shape a society.  When finally the creatures of your world (be they human or otherwise) start to become self-aware, they will begin to ask, "Where did we come from?" and "Why are we here?"  The answers authors invent probably provide interesting clues into our respective psyches, but there are certain trappings that seem universal.
    The most important facet of any successful religion is that it be exclusive.  The worshipers of a being (or beings) are members of the elect and chosen by that deity (or deities), who offers some more pleasant form of afterlife.  Unbelievers and others outside of this group are destined for despair, probably in this life, but most definitely in the next.  Threats related to being expelled from this group are used as a tool to keep worshipers following the religious leader (excommunication was an exceedingly powerful tool in the Medieval Period).
    Within each religion, there is normally a hierarchy connected to the piety (or whatever characteristic is considered most essential) of the clergy.  These religious titles are theoretically not associated with political acumen, even if this may historically be true.  The priests are believed by their followers to have a higher level of understanding of that deity's wishes.  This may be from a more direct connection to the deity or a deeper understanding of religious texts, practices and so on.  One form of direct connection may be the result of casting augury (asking for direction) or the interpretation of signs (taking direction).  Religious leaders have knowledge of some kind that is unavailable to the rank and file.
    Not every member of a religion can be a priest, but there are roles of distinction for those who show devotion.  Some members may lead parts of religious services while others may handle the money.  Sacrifices of a ritual or physical nature may be exacted from the faithful.  Failure to submit may result in expulsion (or worse, depending on the religion).  Often these roles have been designed to take advantage of the talents of the devotees and ease the burden on the clergy, but may become purely ceremonial and/or available for purchase.
    Ritual is a defining feature of religious practice.  Often there is ceremonial garb associated with the priests.  There may be traditional wear for the practitioners as well. Specific days of the year, month, or week may be held holy for a specific religious group (or even multiple times per day).  Ritual usually relates to showing devotion and subservience to the deity of choice.  Recitation from a holy book or a speech from a priest are also common facets of a religious event.  Participation in these events may be restricted by gender or rank within the organization.
    Music and art have also been used to create a mood in the congregation appropriate to the needs of the situation.  Architecture is the simplest example of this.  Cathedrals were designed to dwarf the visitor, making them feel small in comparison with the great works of the faithful (or the Church, or was that God?).  While in most modern religions, the mood of this music is often somber, it is not necessarily the case.  Christian "Praise Bands" have seen a surge in popularity while bringing electric guitars and drums into the church.  Gospel choirs have also long had a more joyful tenor than traditional Catholic services.  Many other religions also have colorful and energetic forms of worship.
    Alright, that is enough of the bare bones descriptors for religions.  Next time we will delve a little more deeply into developing some of these ideas, where they may take you and how they can interact.  I'm as excited as (I hope) you are to find out where my mind may wander.  If you have any comments or suggestions, please let me know.  I'm interested in what you think.