Religion

While the main Quest for Glory series does not generally make direct references to real world religions (other than some holidays such as Christmas, and more obvious reference to classical era Greek, and Egyptian religions/afterlives/gods) some allusions do appear in the series sometimes as jokes or puns, and in serious contexts.

Religion

Religion refers to collective beliefs of certain groups found throughout Gloriana, often it includes the belief in a higher power, God or the gods and deities of ancient myth.

It is highly recommended that Thiefs should take up religion, in order to avoid/disable magical traps.

The HERO: The Journal of General Job Adjusting has a "Religion" section. Issue IV, discussed the Cult of the Dark One.

Additional religious related references was introduced by spin-off material such as Hoyle Book of Games, Volume 3 but only in the case of Ad Avis (see Islam below).

Christianity

The specific term Christianity (or "Christian") does not appear during the series (the closest related term to appear is Christmas). However there are many, direct or indirect references to the religion ranging from vague and specific references to tradition and religious practices, culture and history.

Of most of the religions discussed in this topic it probably actually has the most references altogether through the combined series, but never in cohesive detail or explanation, but rather short references (without full context) to practices that originated or were influenced by Christianity over the centuries. This is likely to do with Christianity's heavy influence on 'western society' and culture, beliefs, and phrases rather than any conscious attempt to actually include religion (which was avoided).

There is a generic reference to the monotheistic God mentioned by Ali Fakir in QFG2, though this may be more of a reference towards other Abrahamic traditions such as Islam or Judaism, see below. The original saying "God's country" is a reference to the Christian God.

The mild influence of Christianity appears largely in Spielburg and Mordavia Medieval or Victorian era style countries, and exactly where people would likely expect Christianity to exist historically. It may also exist in Shapeir as an influence, Shapeir exists in a more Islamic world, Islam came after Christianity (taking ideas from both Judaism and Christianity).

Holidays and Rest Days

There is a reference to Christmas (aka Christ's Mass) in QFG1VGA. This is the holiday that celebrates the birth of Christ, but is also secularized as well. Christ being the Son of God. Christ and God being two parts of the Godhead, along with the Holy Spirit, that make up trinitarian beliefs. The use of the classic historical terms such as BC as seen in Quest for Glory, is also a reference to the period "Before Christ". Christmas is an important holiday in Germany, and technically would not be out of place for a Bavarian town such as Spielburg and/or Willowsby. It is also acknowledged in a couple of other QFG games as well sometimes called Xmas. In the Greek language and alphabet, the letter that looks like an X is the Greek letter chi / Χ (pronounced 'kye' - it rhymes with 'eye') which is the first letter of the Greek word for Christ, Christos, which in English is Christ. The X is more famously seen in the Chi-Rho (☧) which is an amalgamation of the two Greek letters (Chi & Rho) rendered as ☧ (X and P) (Unicode character U+2627 ☧ CHI RHO). It is a symbol often used to represent Christ in Catholic, Protestant, and Orthodox Christian Churches. The "-mas" part is from the Latin-derived Old English word for Mass.

Tinsel is a common decoration for Christmas, and can be found in the magic shop in Spielburg. It is mentioned to have been left over from the previous Christmas, and that there is 250 shopping days left until the next Christmas.

Santa Claus or "Saint Claus" a character associated with Christmas, comes from the shortened name from Nicholas a famous Christian saint made into holiday character.

Halloween like Christmas is a hybrid Christian/Pagan holiday mentioned in QFG2 as brief mention to 'Halloween candy', and 'trick or treating' in QFG4. In early Christian and pagan traditions it was considered the night when the Veil between worlds of life and death was at its thinnest and spirits could cross over from the beyond.

Easter Bunny is mentioned in QFG4 CD. Easter is the holiday celebrating the resurrection of Christ, though the bunny itself is introduced from paganism.

Sundays is the day of rest and worship for most Christian denominations. An Easter Egg in QFG2 states that you won't get food on Sundays this a reference to this practice.

The Monastery in QFG4 is vaguely Catholic or Greek or Eastern Orthodox in style, but obviously been warped by the followers of Avoozl, an H.P. Lovecraft inspired religion (as well as some Egyptian style motifs), see below. That being said due to other cultural symbolism and references the people of Mordavia were more likely to have been Christians before the cult of Avoozle took over.

Religious and Mortuary Symbols

Unused death animation

RIP ("Rest in Peace) on tombstones and in the saying "...may you rest in peace.", and said by Igor. (QFG4), and the spell of the same name RIP. (Latin: Requiescat in pace (Classical Latin: [re.kʷiˈeːs.kat ɪn ˈpaːke], Ecclesiastical Latin: [re.kwiˈɛs.kat in ˈpa.tʃe])) is a phrase sometimes used in traditional Christian services and prayers, such as in the Lutheran, Methodist, and Roman Catholic denominations, sometimes to wish the soul of a decedent eternal rest and peace in Christ. It is also used on headstones, often abbreviated RIP. The term has entered widespread common parlance within Western culture as a term used to acknowledge someone's death. The phrase was not found on tombstones before the eighth century. It became ubiquitous on the tombs of Christians in the 18th century, and for High Church Anglicans, Methodists, as well as Roman Catholics in particular, it was a prayerful request that their soul should find peace in the afterlife. When the phrase became conventional, the absence of a reference to the soul led people to suppose that it was the physical body that was enjoined to lie peacefully in the grave. This is associated with the Christian doctrine of the particular judgment; that is, that the soul is parted from the body upon death, but that the soul and body will be reunited on Judgment Day.

Crosses appear throughout the series, while not exclusively a Christian symbol (it does appear in pagan traditions predating Christianity), it is a common symbol of Christ’s crucifixion.

Tradtional crosses with the longer arm at the bottom can be seen on a crown at the top of Piotyr’s coat of arms as it appears on his armor/uniform, which would seem to indicate the traditional beliefs of his family. Another cross can be seen on top of the crown on the Borgov family crest. Another similar Christian cross can be seen in the distance near Hero's gravestone in a death scene in QFG4. In Erasmus house in QFG1 you can see a number of different runic mystical sigils and religious symbols carved into the arches along the back wall of his living room. If you look closely one of the symbols is a crucifix.

A slightly modified Christian cross (nearly a crux ansata/ankh/Coptic cross with rounded top above the cross arms) and Crusader/Templar cross (Cross pattée) appears in the Graveyard of Spielberg showing obvious local religious affiliation to Christianity which would be common for Germanic village of the period portrayed in the game.

Another cross can be seen on a shield in the blacksmith's shop QFG2, but there is no context related to it. More crosses this time + (Greek cross) can be seen in decorations/artwork throughout Spielburg in Hero's Quest/QFG1EGA including the Old Lady's house, and the Inn. With arms of equal length. One of the most common Christian forms, in common use by the 4th century.

Crosses can also be seen on the coins on the coin cards in the tarot deck. The Deck is a scan of an actual Russian Tarot of St. Petersburg (though Tarot itself is has occult connections rather than religious).

A woodcarving of Hero's hometown (Willowsby) in the QFG1VGA manual may have a cross on top of a steeple on one of the buildings in the city.

The introduction for QFG1 remake has image of Christian angel with halo around its head. There is a reference to angels blowing trumpets in QFG5. Los Angeles (L.A.) as mentioned in FE handbook is literally the city of Angels.

On the QFG4 character select screen is an praying angel on a headstone. In the original Hero's Quest/QFG 1 EGA there is only a small shadowy angel in foreground on top a slab style tombstone. Angels found in the cemetery are a symbol of spirituality. They guard the tomb and are thought to be messengers between God and man.

The angel, or "messenger of God," may appear in many different poses, each with its own individual meaning. An angel with open wings is thought to represent the flight of the soul to heaven. Angels may also be shown carrying the deceased in their arms, as if taking or escorting them to heaven. A weeping angel symbolizes grief, especially mourning an untimely death. An angel blowing a trumpet may depict the day of judgement. Two specific angels can often be identified by the instruments they carry - Michael by his sword and Gabriel by his horn.

Decorative stone urns as seen on some of the tombs in QFG4. As burial became a more common-practice, the urn continued to be closely associated with death. The urn is commonly believed to testify to the death of the body and the dust into which the dead body will change, while the spirit of the departed eternally rests with God.

The Grim Reaper is based on the medieval Christian interpretation on the personification of death. Death portrayed as the Grim Reaper (with Scythe) appears in several statue figures in QFG 4 within the Boyar Crypt. Death can also be seen on the Tarot Death Card.

The fleur-de-lis/fleur-de-lys (plural: fleurs-de-lis)^{[pron 1]} or flower-de-luce is a stylized lily (in French, fleur means "flower", and lis means "lily") that is used as a decorative design or symbol. It appears on Paladin symbol for Holy Shield (Honor Shield) as well in the Authoriced Guide to denote section breaks. Many of the saints are often depicted with a lily, most prominently St. Joseph. Since France is a historically Catholic nation, the Fleur de lis became commonly used "at one and the same time, religious, political, dynastic, artistic, emblematic, and symbolic", especially in French heraldry.

In the Middle Ages, the symbols of lily and fleur-de-lis overlapped considerably in Christian religious art. It was until about 1300 they were found in depictions of Jesus, but gradually they took on Marian symbolism and were associated with the Song of Solomon's "lily among thorns" (lilium inter spinas), understood as a reference to Mary. Other scripture and religious literature in which the lily symbolizes purity and chastity also helped establish the flower as an iconographic attribute of the Virgin. It was also believed that the fleur-de-lis represented the Holy Trinity.

A Gryphon with a halo appears in QFG1's credits screens. This is yet another Christian religious symbol. Being a union of an aerial bird and a terrestrial beast, Griffons seen in Christendom to be a symbol of Jesus, who was both human and divine. As such it can be found sculpted on some churches. The concept of Gryphons themselves goes back much earlier Iranian and Egyptian art. But it was highly influential in Medieval European artwork as well.

Likewise, the lion is a common charge in heraldry sometimes referring to Christ. It traditionally symbolizes courage, nobility, royalty, strength, stateliness and valour, because historically it has been regarded as the "king of beasts".^[1] Lion refers also to a Judeo-Christian symbolism. The Lion of Judah stands in the coat of arms of Jerusalem. Similar looking lion can be found e.g. in the coat of arms of the Swedish royal House of Bjelbo, from there in turn derived into the coat of arms of Finland, formerly belonging to Sweden, and many others examples for similar historical reasons.

European dragons are usually depicted as malevolent under Christianity, and associated with the Devil. In QFG this is the general case with dragons appearing or alluded to as top-tier monsters in QFG1 and QFG5; pre-Christian dragons, such as Y Ddraig Goch, the Red Dragon of Wales (associated with King Arthur and his father), are seen as benevolent. Banners of the Late Roman Empire frequently figured Dragons, possibly due to the fact that Marcus Aurelius took over 8,000 Sarmatian soldiers into the Roman army, for whom the Dragon was a part of their military insignia. The double-headed dragon banner thus came to represent the division between Western and Eastern Roman Empires. It has been suggested that the Welsh legendary name Pendragon came from the word "head of the dragons", the name of the commander of the Sarmatians situated in sub-Roman Ribchester. Pagan sacred sites and springs, supposedly associated with Dragons, were often later associated with churches of Saint Michael or Saint George. A reference to St. George appears in QFG5, see below under terminology.

The symbol of Garlic to ward of Vampires, Demons, Ghosts and Werewolves also can be traced to Christian/Pagan hybrid myths. In the legends of St. Andrew (tamer of creatures and wolves) he was the one who introduced Garlic to the Slavic countries and the rest of the world. It was with its divine properties Garlic was used strung up as decorations or worn as decorations on the Night of the Poltergeists (St. Andrews Day) to ward off evil.

Tarot decks originally started out as a playing card game, but later used for divining. The decks are filled with Christian and occult symbolism. The deck that appears in QFG4 is the St. Petersburg Tarot deck, and thus has a Russian influence to the artwork. A lot of this art is hard to make out in the game due to lower resolution scans. But from Crosses on the Coin Cards, to possibly Holy Grail influences on the Cups card, and Christian Devil. Several cards hav quite a bit of iconography. The Hierophant and High Priestess cards for example shows Russian Orthodox church bishop style fineries, he holds a staff in one hand that has the Orthodox/Russian cross at the top, while she has a crucifix around her neck. The Falling Tower also shows crosses falling from the tower. This cannot be seen in the game as the card scans are too low resolution.

The Hierophant is the fifth card of the Major Arcana in occult Tarot decks. It is derived from the historical card known as the Pope in playing card decks.

Afterlife

The Quest for Glory: The Authorized Strategy Guide and certain references of Quest for Glory V, make reference to a more traditional Christian inspired Hell, as one of the afterlives in the universe. It is a realm of demons, and contains an area known as the Abyss. At least some of the influence taken from Greek Mythology as well. The Hero prevents demons from escaping from there. Mild curse words associated with 'hell' appear throughout the QFG series. The term 'damn' can be found in QFG2, and QFG5 as an mild curse word. 'Darn' appear sin QFG1, 3,4, and 5. Drat ('God rot it') appears in QFG5 and Hoyle 3. 'Heck' appears in QFG1EGA/QFG1VGA, QFG2, and QFG5.

The Devil appears in the Tarot deck in QFG4. The concept of Demons from a underworld/netherworld appears in QFG3 and QFG4 (manual).

Asmodeus (/ˌæzməˈdiːəs/; Greek: Ασμοδαίος, Asmodaios) or Ashmedai (/ˈæʃmɪˌdaɪ/; Hebrew: אַשְמְדּאָי‎‎, ʾAšmədʾāy; see below for other variations) is mentioned as a major demon of the Netherworld. In Christian lore he is a king of demons mostly known from the deuterocanonical Book of Tobit, in which he is the primary antagonist. He was supposed by some Renaissance Christians to be the King of the Nine Hells. Asmodeus also is referred to as one of the seven princes of Hell. In Binsfeld's classification of demons, each one of these princes represents one of the seven deadly sins (Lust, Gluttony, Greed, Sloth, Wrath, Envy, and Pride). Asmodeus is the demon of lust and is therefore responsible for twisting people's sexual desires, as seen in the book of Tobias especially. He is also said to be here on Earth after millions of years in hell.

There are also generic references to "Heaven/Heavens" throughout the series. Which is generally portrayed as the place God and Angels are located.

In Catholic theology, Limbo (Latin limbus, edge or boundary, referring to the "edge" of Hell) is a speculative idea about the afterlife condition of those who die in original sin without being assigned to the Hell of the Damned. Medieval theologians of western Europe described the underworld ("hell", "hades", "infernum") as divided into four distinct parts: Hell of the Damned,[2] Purgatory, Limbo of the Fathers or Patriarchs, and Limbo of the Infants. However, Limbo of the Infants is not an official doctrine of the Catholic Church. Also, Purgatory is better classified as part of heaven, as official Church doctrine states that all souls in the state of purgation or cleansing (often referred to as "in Purgatory") are to be fully welcomed into eternal life after becoming fully purified.

Inquisitions, Trials and Holy Wars

In the VGA version of QFG1 is a reference to the Crusades and Tangier (inspired by actual Crusade event 1437) in which some of the people of Spielberg were involved. The Crusades refer to a series of holy wars between Christianity and Islam during the Medieval period.

Another reference made in the guide is that in Willowsby magic is considered 'wicked'. The Middle English word; Wicked has its roots in the Old English word "wicca" (I.E. "witch") and the English suffice -ed (of, possessing the trait of), which means 'evil or morally wrong'. The fear and hatred of magic and witches is generally something that is attributed to Christianity in the Bible, where it is viewed as consorting with the Devil Satan, or other evil angels/demons, and pagansim. In the Bible Exodus proclaims "Thou shat not suffer a witch to live", for Example. The idea that paganism is wicked is not limited to Christianity but is largely unique to other Abrahamic religions including Judaism and Islam. The term 'wicked' gets used in reference to a number of topics throughout the series and its manuals. Such as the flying cobras described as having 'wicked wings'.

"Careful it floats, it could be a witch..." This phrase as it appears in the games is a reference to Monty Python and the Holy Grail, but it also a reference to medieval practice by Christians (largely Protestant sects) of dunking a person to see if they are a witch. If they floated, they would then be tried and burned at the stake. The idea of witches being old hags, and riding brooms is largely attributed to Medieval Christian views of Witchcraft. During this period Gypsies were associated with Witchcraft as well and burned at the stake as well. Mordavia shares this very similar Christian-like superstitions of magic, and gypsies.

Similarly... the werewolf (rather than the concept of shape-shifters in general) is a widespread concept in European folklore, existing in many variants, which are related by a common development of a Christian interpretation of underlying European folklore developed during the medieval period. The werewolf folklore found in Europe harks back to a common development during the Middle Ages, arising in the context of Christianization, and the associated interpretation of pre-Christian mythology in Christian terms. Their underlying common origin can be traced back to Proto-Indo-European mythology, where lycanthropy is reconstructed as an aspect of the initiation of the warrior class. This is reflected in Iron Age Europe in the Tierkrieger depictions from the Germanic sphere, among others. Such transformations of "men into wolves" in pagan cult were associated with the devil from the early medieval perspective. This also lead to attempted witch/wolf hunts to kill suspected werewolves.

Terminology

Geez, Gee, Gosh, Golly, Sheesh, Gadzooks, Ods Bodkins, Dagnabit (Dag-nab-it), and Egad are all mild epitaphs or curses that reference Jesus and God. Gadzooks is God's Hooks, the nails which held Christ on the cross, and Ods Bodkins is God's Body, as in the body of Christ. Dagnabit (Dag-nab-it) means "God damn it", in reference to both God and damning a soul to 'hell'.

The term Holy, is largely a Christian term meaning sacred, and used to describe God and the Divinity in Christianity. Such as the Holy Ghost/Holy Spirit. It is use din minced oaths such as "holy cow", which is actually a euphemism Holy God/Jesus, although it also alludes to 'sacred cows'  as well (both biblical false gods or in hindu). In QFG this gets used in funny ways such as Holy Hungry Hexapods, and 'holy tantalizing tentacles'. Holy is sometimes used for Paladin abilities as well. 'Holy Mackerel!' (QFG1EGA) is actually a minced oath in referenced to 'holy Mary, mother of God'.

​The Holy Grail which is  referenced in QFG1, and possibly QFG3, represents the cup which Christ drank from at the last supper.

Holy Strength and Holy Shield are abilities in QFG5 (Holy Shield is an alternative name for Honor Shield). The symbol of Holy Strength is a Christian cross on a golden shield. Holy Strength is symbolized by Fleur De Lis, another Christian symbol. The red cross seen on healing spell in QFG is based on the Red Cross symbol, while a secular symbol, it was inspired by the Swiss flag which was intended to be a religious symbol. So it might be said that the red cross is several times removed from it's original Christian symbolism. Though some argue that red cross's founder Henry Dunant's Calvanism may have been in influence when he formed the organization orginally. Britannica even states; "The Red Cross is the name used in countries under nominally Christian sponsorship".

Notre Dame is a famous Catholic cathedral in France. The name means "Our Lady" as in the Virgin Mary, Mother of Christ, important in Catholicism.

The concept of 'sin' is mentioned both QFG2 and QFG5. While broader concept of committing 'bad', 'wicked' or 'evil' deeds can be found in multiple religions, the term itself is English, and more properly attributed to Christian translations of the Bible originally (meaning "offense against God"). But the essential concept applies across all the Abrahamic religions.

The one use of the term prayers appears in QFG4 in the one game that has European culture follow Christian tradition of prayers, and has other Christian symbolism hidden about the game. “Even a man who is pure in heart... And says his prayers by night...” which is a reference to Christian practice of saying prayers before going to bed. This poem originates from the classic Lon Chaney Jr. Universal film "The Wolf Man" (a film with traditional Christian religious themes, and the village has a local parish church as well,  and a scene with a Christian minister and the story including the motif of Christianity vs Paganism).

A touch of Catholicism is nodded to with the line in QFG2: "Nuns are often in the habit of wearing these with their habit." This is seen when looking at a cornette hat on a shelf in the magic shop.

The cornette was retained as a distinctive piece of clothing into modern times by the Daughters of Charity, a Roman Catholic society of apostolic life founded by St. Vincent de Paul in the mid-17th century. The founder wanted to have the sisters of this new type of religious congregation of women, that tended to the sick poor and were not required to remain in their cloister, resemble ordinary middle-class women as much as possible in their clothing, including the wearing of the cornette.

After the cornette generally fell into disuse, it became a distinctive feature of the Daughters of Charity, making theirs one of the most widely recognised religious habits. Because of the cornette, they were known in Ireland as the "butterfly nuns". They abandoned the cornette on 20 September 1964. The modern nurses' cap or bonnet was created following the cornette's appearance and it depicts the humanitarianism of Daughters of Charity in nursing.

This particular cornette's distinctive shape comes from the old TV show The Flying Nun.

The pun 'Rock of Ages/rock of ages' appears in QFG3 and 5. This is the name of a famous Christian Hymn. Although its also been used for other things since then (that do not necessarily have anything to do with religious themes).

Ten Commandments, Bible Verses and Other Stories

The Thieves' Guild motto is 'Thou shalt not steal HERE.', this is a play on the 'Thou shalt not steal' (Exodus 20:15) one of the Ten Commandments of the Bible, in particular the English translation of the Christian versions of the bible (both Catholic and Protestant bibles). One of the Tarna laws is very similar in style, and likely influenced by biblical Ten Commandments wording.

"Thou shalt not kill, or so it's said, Unless you wish to wind up dead." The first line is yet another example of one of the "Ten Commandments" ( Exodus 20:13) in particular the Christian English translations (in Jewish translations it is closer to "Thou shalt not murder", as both self defense, and war is allowed).

"...not a person whose name to use in vain." This is another reference adapted from one of the Ten Commandments, but in this case the person they are referring to is Ad Avis rather than 'God' (Exodus 20:7), but the language itself is specifically a saying introduced in the Bible.

"Do unto others as they do to you, If they don't attack, then neither should you!" The first half of this comment, is a quote bible verses which are known as the Golden Rule (Mathew 7:12; Luke 6:31) Baba Yaga references this and subverts it when she says "Do unto others before they can do unto you, I always say."

"It's a pillar of salt." (QFG5) is a reference the Biblical story of Lot's Wife turning into a pillar of salt from the Old Testament.

A reference made in QFG5: "No greater act can a Hero give -- Who offers his life, that others live." Is an allusion to John 15:13;

"Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends."

The Adam's Apple as mentioned in QFG4 is protrusion found on humans necks especially pronounce on men. It is named for the first Human "Adam" in Biblical Genesis/Creation story and the forbidden fruit he ate, making him lose the Garden of Eden.

The 'Red Sea' is mentioned and rhymed against "Dead Sea" both locations are important locations in the Bible in stories. Red Sea was the site where Moses divided the waters, and where Pharaoh was killed by the waters returned. The latter is the site of 'Dead Sea scrolls" which were used to help check translations of the bible (see Judaism below for more details).

While the Abyss is associated with Hades in QFG5, the term itself has more to do with Christian and biblical lore and tradition related to Hell or death.

St. Joan of Arc mentioned in QFG4 is the patroness of soldiers and of France. On January 6, 1412, Joan of Arc was born to pious parents of the French peasant class in the obscure village of Domremy, near the province of Lorraine. At a very early age, she was said to have heard the voices of St. Michael, St. Catherine, and St. Margaret.

Judaism

Judaism is first of the three primary Abrahamic traditions which include the second Christianity and the later came Islam.

References to it or its believers/members are perhaps a bit more, obscure in the series...

The Dead Sea scrolls are mentioned. These are important find near the Dead Sea that included many of the books of the Bible in ancient Hebrew text. This was important to later translators both Jewish and Christian. Likewise the Red Sea is associated with Moses and the story is shared by Christians as well.

Asmodeus is mentioned in some Talmudic legends; for instance, in the story of the construction of the Temple of Solomon. In Jewish and Islamic lore he is the king of the demons (Shedim/Jinn).

Other possible references are the Star of David (Magen David "Shield of David") used in Ad Avis magic. Also known Seal of Solomon, it is attributed to King Solomon in medieval Jewish tradition. The symbol was later adopted by Islam, and even Christianity, and in medieval mysticism (Qabbalism which was the main influence on its use in the games) it was known as the hexagram. Often used to 'bind spirits'... The symbol predates Abrahamic religions including Judaism, however in middle ages was adopted and came to be known as the symbol of the Jews. The two intersecting triangles may represent the delicate balance between man and God. Hexagrams appear in other scenes as well including the tables at the Katta's Tail and Blue Parrot Inns.

Gefilte fish is mentioned. Among religiously observant Jews, gefilte fish has become a traditional Shabbat food to avoid borer, which is one of the 39 activities prohibited on Shabbat outlined in the Shulchan Aruch. Borer, literally "selection/choosing", would occur when one picks the bones out of the fish, taking "the chaff from within the food". It is a dish made from a poached mixture of ground deboned fish, such as carp, whitefish, or pike. It is traditionally served as an appetizer by Ashkenazi Jewish households. Although it historically consisted of a minced-fish forcemeat stuffed inside the fish skin, this step has been commonly omitted since the 19th century and the seasoned fish is most commonly formed into patties similar to quenelles or fish balls. These are popular on Shabbat and Jewish Holidays such as Passover, although they may be consumed throughout the year. In Poland, gefilte fish, referred to as karp po żydowsku ("carp Jewish-style"), is a traditional dish in some Polish homes (more commonly in the northern regions near the Baltic Sea), served on Christmas Eve (for Twelve-dish supper) and on Holy Saturday. A less common belief is that fish are not subject to ayin hara ("evil eye") because they are submerged while alive, so that a dish prepared from several fish varieties brings good luck. Fish is pareve, neither meat nor dairy, and, according to kosher law, it may be eaten at both meat and dairy meals, although according to halakha law, fish and meat should not be eaten together.

Another potential reference is Ali Fakir's makes a reference to God (calling Shapeir "God's country", and then saying he (God) can have it, he is ready to move on), now the reference itself is originally a reference to the "Christian" interpretation of God (but the same God is more or less shared among Abrahamic religions with various differences).

The term itself,, may have several meanings (and often completely opposite in nature)... Urban Dictionary amusingly suggests God's country is "Land so far out in the middle of nowhere that even the most basic artifacts of civilization are hard to come by." However Webster's gives several competing definitions;

:a place conceived of as especially favored by God: such as

a :  an area of civilization (as a city) away from the frontier music heard long before … in God's country in the East — Springfield (Massachusetts) Republican

b :  a place away from a city; especially :  the open country out of the slums into God's country

c :  one's native or home state or region

boosters go so much to the other extreme, talking about God's country — Sinclair Lewis

Fakir's use of the term indicates that he knows of God (in monotheistic sense), and may believe in him on some level.

Ali Fakir is the Saurus Saleman of Shapir, is based on Groucho Marx. To take this further Harpo and Alichica (Chico Marx) appear in the game as well.

The Marx Brothers were prominent actors of Jewish heritage known for their slapstick humor, as well by many for what was viewed as courageous activism during WW2 against Nazi regime via the satire of their films (much like Charlie Chaplain, and Three Stooges as well).

Alichica and Ali Fakir are both portrayed as stereotypical swindlers (and cheaters) of Jewish heritage (being depictions of prominent Jewish actors). They are also depicted with exaggerated 'large noses'... this imagery actually hearkens back to anti-Semitic medieval stereotypical portrayals of Jews as cheats and swindlers. Bringing to mind Shakespear's own portrayal of "Shylock" from The Merchant of Venice.

Even the name "Fakir" which can mean 'Faker', 'Charlatan', 'Swindler', etc appears to be a nod to this stereotype.

Webster's thesaurus defines Fakir as;

1

a dishonest person who uses clever means to cheat others out of something of value a traveling carnival that was run by fakirs preying on small-town rubes

2

one who makes false claims of identity or expertise a fakir peddling patent medicines that were mostly liquor and sugar.

And the dictionary defines it as (and the second meaning has more relevance) as "Swindler":

1

\fə-ˈkir, fä-, fa-; ˈfā-kər\

a :  a Muslim mendicant :  dervish

b :  an itinerant Hindu ascetic or wonder-worker

2

\ˈfā-kər\ :  impostor; especially :  swindler

The name Ali Fakir however itself is more Arabic fitting into the Arabic/Persian theme of the series.

Some view the Marx Bros. movie Duck Soup (which QFG makes a reference to) as both an anti-war film and anti-government (including anti-Nazi). However their most direct anti-Nazi film was A Night in Casablanca.

While there were no deliberately pro-Nazi films before the war, many execs were afraid to produce deliberately anti-fascist films at the time, as it cut into their distribution into German controlled regions. Not everyone one Hollywood was brave enough offend their patrons at the time, and considering some of Hollywood's allegedly supportive of Hitler before the war, and had restricted the production of anything even inadvertently anti-fascist)

There might be somewhat of a sub context an anti-fascist message and possible reference to the Holocaust in that Ad Avis regime is known to have forced all the Katta, and many of the local people to flee Raseir, or has imprisoned them or killed them, and has his eyes set on Shapir as well. Ad Avis and his commander Khaveen are portrayed as highly xenophobic and hateful of non-humans or even humans that do not meet his standards.

Islam

There are a number of things mentioned in Quest For Glory II and Quest for Glory III that are inspired by Thousand and One Nights and other Middle-Eastern and Persian myths and legends. Some of these stories and myths that were created by or influenced by Islamic culture and religion.

These include the Houris of Paradise, the idea of 'Infidels' (unbelievers, those who do not follow Islam), certain aspects of the backstory of Julanar (concerning the treatment of women in her time), and some of the characters in QFG2 are inspired by the names of famous leaders of Islamic caliphates, emirates, and sultanates. The evil Marid Iblis takes its name from, and is more or less inspired by Islam's version of the Devil/Satan (though in QFG, Iblis and Shaitan treated as seperate entities).

Many of the rules for women that Ad Avis instituted in Raseir such as "forbidding a man to speak to a woman unless she is his mother, daughter, or wife" or "mother, wife, or slave" are based on Islamic Sharia practices.

Suleiman bin Daoud is the name of the Jewish-Israeli King Solomon ben David, in the Bible and the Qur'an. It means 'Solomon, son of David' (another Biblical and Qur'anic king). According to apocryphal, rabbinical and magical literature and legends, Suleiman had power over good and evil spirits. These occult traditions of course differ with the Biblical interpretation, but the Qur'an mentions that he had power over the djinn.

Djinn are somewhat equivalent to angels and demons Islamic traditions.

Harun al-Rashid was the name of an Islamic caliph that was a leader during the Islamic Golden Age (the same age in which Arabian Nights stories arose).

The Seal of Solomon (Star of David in Jewish tradition or hexagram in Qabbalism) appears in QFG2 as the magic star with the candles used to summon Iblis by Ad Avis in the game's ending. However it has more in common with the Star of David in that it lacks the circle around the star as it portrayed on the Seal of Solomon. It function is more like the 'hexagram' used in the Qabbalistic occult magic. In Christian tradition it can also be called the 'star of creation' where it was often found in Orthodox Christian Churches and Roman Catholic Churches in the Balkans.

The phrase "May Peace Be Always With Him" appears to be based on "PBUH" (Peace Be Upon Him) which is an Arabic honorific often applies to the prophets, especially to Muhammad.

Allah is mentioned by Ad Avis in Hoyle 3. This is obviously a reference to the god of Islam. See Ad Avis quotes (Hoyle 3).

In Arabic language and Islamic cultures Allah is the name for the "God" of Abrahamic traditions (although certain aspects of this God vary by religion, such that for example, in Islam, Christ is another prophet (a mere man), rather than the Son of God, and Allah has no son, and there is no 'trinity'). In QFG2, the concept of a mono-theistic "God" in beliefs of Shapeir, is mentioned at least once, specifically by Ali Fakir (but this is perhaps the limits to understanding Shapeir's religious culture within the game).

Only Hoyle 3 makes reference to Allah (God) having a Prophet, a reference to the Islamic Prophet, Muḥammad.

Wiccan

While the Wiccan religion is not directly referenced, the concepts of witches is mentioned occasionally often in the negative perspective (often from religious or traditional medieval perspective of witches). For example Baba Yaga is often associated with witches. The term 'wicked' is derived from 'wicca' (witch), and has a negative meaning. This often negative interpretation of witches (despite Baba Yaga actually being neither purely evil nor purely good) has been found offensive by some real world wiccans in the past.

Wiccans complained about the stereotypical portrayal of witches for example the case of Baba Yaga (although technically she isn't a human witch but an Ogress, in the game she is still referred to as a 'witch' by the narrator). "The biggest problems we had weren't with fans, but with people who complained about things that weren’t really in the games. For example, a Wiccan complained about the stereotypical portrayal of witches in Baba Yaga. Of course, she isn’t a witch, but an Ogress, and she’s lifted straight from Russian fairy tales, on which we based her appearance, the chicken-footed hut, and the laser-eyed skulls (ok, that might have been a *slight* variation) on the fence." "No – Baba Yaga was an archetypical wicked witch! (er.. Ogress. She was a “hag”, not a “witch”, in the old Slavic tales. We didn’t want to offend our Wiccan friends by perpetuating the wicked witch image, so we decided she was an Ogress rather than a witch." The Authorized Guide refers to her as a witch on multiple occasions. See Controversies.

The symbol of the pizza element/elemental seen in QFG2 looks like a flat pizza cut into eight slices. Incidently this is also one of hte symbols for 'spirit'/'aeither' traditionally the fifth element in Wiccan and other traditions. According to Corey Cole this is a coincidence however, and had no influence on why they chose it. Instead, it was chosen because Pizza was easy late night food source for busy programmers, and they ate large consumption of it whiile working in Oakhurst.

The version of pentragrams (five-pointed start with circle around it) as seen in the games is the point at the top, and often associated with Wiccans/Pagan religions.

Buddhism, Hindu & Other Eastern Philosophies

Extremely minor reference to Buddha and the sacred fig tree, 'Bodhi Tree' in QFG1VGA, when randomly looking at trees. There are reference to Zen (as from Mahayana Buddhism in references in QFG1VGA, and QFG3.)

There is book in Salim's collection called "The Om and I". "Om" is a sacred sound and a spiritual icon in Hindu religion. It is also a mantra in Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Sikhism. "OM' is part of the iconography found in ancient and medieval era manuscripts, temples, monasteries and spiritual retreats in Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism.

Reincarnation is referenced in QFG3 as well. Enlightment/enlightened is mentioned in QFG3 and QFG5 and a few other games.

Yin-Yang symbol from Taoist belief system appears in Sekhmet's trial as a choice.

Chi, Karma, I Ching, Mandela, Tae Kwon Do (black belt)

The wood element from Chinese lore appears is mentioned in an off hand remark in QFG2. The only element missing from Chinese lore is 'Metal'.

Wood Element

Wood (or "Tree") is one of five classical elements in Chinese Wu Xing. Tree (Chinese: 木; pinyin: mù), traditionally translated as Wood, is the growing of the matter, or the matter's growing stage. Tree is the first stage of Wu Xing. Tree is yang in character. It stands for springtime, the east, the planet Jupiter, the color green, wind, and Qing Long in Four Symbols. The Wu Xing are chiefly an ancient mnemonic device for systems with 5 stages; hence the preferred translation of "tree" over "wood".

In Chinese thought, Wood attributes are considered to be strength and flexibility, as with bamboo. It is also associated with qualities of warmth, generosity, co-operation and idealism. The Wood person will be expansive, outgoing and socially conscious. The wood element is one that seeks always to grow and expand. Wood heralds the beginning of life, springtime and buds, sensuality and fecundity. Wood needs moisture to thrive.

In Chinese medicine, wood is associated with negative feelings of anger, and positive feelings of patience and altruism. Organs associated with this element are the liver (yin) and the gall bladder (yang), the eyes and the tendons.

In Chinese astrology wood is included in the 10 heavenly stems (the five elements in their yin and yang forms), which combine with the 12 earthly branches (or Chinese signs of the zodiac), to form the 60 year cycle. Yang wood years end in 4 (eg 1974), while Yin years end in 5 (eg 1975). Wood governs the Chinese zodiac signs Tiger, Rabbit and Dragon.

In the regenerative cycle of the Wu Xing, Water engenders Wood, as rain or dew makes plant life flourish; and Wood begets Fire as fire is generated by rubbing together two pieces of wood. In the conquest cycle, Wood overcomes Earth by binding it together with the roots of trees; and Metal overcomes Wood, as the metal axe can make even the largest trees fall.

Hermetic Qabalah

In medieval mysticism (Qabbalism) the hexagram (six pointed star) was often used to 'bind spirits'...

Corey Cole once stated: "...We got a letter threatening to report us to B'nai B'rith and the Jewish Anti-Defamation League because Ad Avis used a "Star of David" in his evil magic. Apparently associating a six-pointed star with evil is defamatory. (It is/was the Star of Solomon from Qabalistic lore to us, but yes, that does have its roots in Judaism.)"

New Age

New Age ideas mixed with 1960's Hippy subculture are represented by the character Salim Nafs. A number of his books make reference to New Age concepts, and a mix of Eastern religion, see also Buddhism above. These include such things as astral-projection and cosmic consciousness.

Egyptian Mythology & Liontaur Religion

Represented by Anubis and Sekhmet, and the Ka, and Egyptian afterlife of Tu-at. There are references to pyramids, and general Egyptian symbols appear all over Liontaur's buildings. The Ankh symbol appears in Sekhmet's test as on option.

Mummification is a process for preserving the dead for the afterlife.

The Liontaurs are shown to have one of the more thought out and described religions in the QFG games. With the only example of a God who is powered by and answers her own 'worshipers'. The religion as practiced by the Liontaurs is xenophobic to Humans and other races. However, the traditions set up by the Liontaurs may not be in line with the Goddess's own desires, as she is quick to correct her High Priestess when she is critical of the Hero's presence in the temple. See Sekhmet.

Greek/Roman Mythology

General reference to a pantheon of gods and Greek heroes. Hades, Poiseidon, Hera, and Hercules and others are mentioned.

However, most of these Heroes and deities are mentioned in past tense. And evidence of their great kingdoms are only ruins by the time of the story. It seems that their time has come and gone and their memory is slowly fading from the world. With exception of Hades much of their universe is gone or in a ruined state. Even the temples such as the Oracle at Delphi is in ruined state. Other temples are underwater and covered by the seas from previous cataclysm.

Some individuals still acknowledge various Gods, but there is no evidence they 'worship' them.

Slavic Mythology

Avoozl appearance and certain elements are roughly inspired by Slavic deity Chernabog.

Norse Mythology

Extremely limited references but Jotuneheim and Frost Giants originate out of Norse mythological traditions.

Jötunheimr (or Jǫtunheimr; often anglicized Jotunheim) is one of the Nine Worlds and the homeland (heim 'home') of the Giants of Norse Mythology to both the Rock Giants and Frost Giants.

Satanism

According to the Coles some of the elements of Quest For Glory 4 were based on Anton LaVey's "The Satanic Rituals." The name of Avoozl came from a spider god in the book.

Though some might associate 'pentagrams' with 'Satanism', the version that appears in the games is not the "inverted" pentagram associated with Satanism, but the version with the point at the top associated with Wiccans/Paganism.

Cult of Reason

A comment made by the Scientists in QFG5 may be an offhand reference to the "Cult of Reason" a state sponsored atheistic religion seen during the French Revolution. "Oh, are you here again? Come to worship at the altar of divine reason, no doubt."

During the Festival of Reason, in one cathedral the Christian altar was dismantled and an altar to Liberty (aka the Altar of Reason) was installed and the inscription "To Philosophy" was carved in stone over the cathedral's doors. A flame burned on the altar which was symbolic of truth.

It is said that up to five thousand clergymen were executed by the guillotine for not swearing at the altar of Reason.

Atheism

Atheism is in the broadest sense an absence of belief in the existence of deities. Less broadly, atheism is a rejection of the belief that any deities exist. In an even narrower sense, atheism is specifically the position that there are no deities. In earlier times minority religions such as "Christianity' were considered 'atheistic' because they denied governmental prevailing belief of the gods in the socio-political religion of the Romans of the day.

It is somewhat odd that modern concept of atheism exists in openly displayed 'world of magic' and gods (that clearly exist, see Sekhmet). But athiests do get referenced at times.

For example in QFG, one of the grave stones states: "Here lies an atheist..." "All dressed up and nowhere to go."

Athiesm is treated as part of one of the characters personalities, see Religion (Hero-U).

Lovecraftian Fiction

Lovecraftian concepts appear in QFG4 with the Cult of Dark Ones, and Avoozl. The cultists mutating into sea creatures (Chernovy) is similar to the Deep Ones in The Shadow Over Innsmouth who turn fish-like over time due to their connection and worship of Dagon. General concept of cults and strange monasteries and temples such as in stories The Dream-Quest of Unknown Kadath, The Temple, In the Mountains of Madness and Dagon. It is probably closest to the cult 'Esoteric Order of Dagon' from The Shadow Over Innsmouth and its Masonic hall according to Derleth's writings. But there are many such cults in Lovecrafts and other authors' extended Cthulhu Mythos.

The name October Derleth mentioned in Hero's Journal is a reference to August Derleth one of the authors of the extended Cthulhu Mythos.

The Dark Ones Cult (aka Chernovy Cult) was made up of weak-minded fools who worshiped him because he promised their every desire. They worshiped Avoozl within the Monastery of the Mad Monk, and in the Dark One's Cave. The last Boyar was known to be a worshiper of the Dark One, and he became the High Priest of the cult. He vanished at the time of the Summoning.

Calendar & Astronomy

The universe uses more or less the same modern Gregorian calendar much like the real world.

The current Calendar system has strong Christian influences in Earth's history. However the names of the days of the week are taken from mythology and the gods, primarily Norse traditions.

Many of the months names originate from Roman influence (they originally only had a 10 month calendar, this became thirteen later, and under Julius Caesar the 12 we have today). They were given names of the gods such as Janus, Aphrodite, Mars, Juno, Maia, or festival (Februa), or important Caesars (Julius, Augustus), or Roman Latin numerals (Sept 7, Oct 8, Nov 9, Dec 10), etc...

Octember is mentioned in QFG1 however this is probably a joke, and the original reference is to Dr. Seuss to a month that does not exist, and therefore will never come.

The choice of seven day week itself can be traced back to Babylonians and also had significance to the Jews.

Several of Earth's planets are mentioned and these share Roman or Greek historical influence. Mars, Jupiter, etc.

Zodiac symbols for Sagittarius, Pisces, Libra, and Taurus appear on the magic spells in QFG1,QFG3, and QFG4. Plus a unidentified symbol (believed to be Pi for 'Pizza").

Notes

A reference in QFG4, inside of a book on thieves and traps. It states "In the section on surviving magical traps, the book suggests taking up religion."

A halo (from Greek ἅλως, halōs;^[1] also known as a nimbus, aureole, glory, or gloriole) is a crown of light rays, circle or disk of light^[2] that surrounds a person in art. They have been used in the iconography of many religions to indicate holy or sacred figures, and have at various periods also been used in images of rulers or heroes. In the sacred art of Ancient Greece, Ancient Rome, Hinduism, Buddhism, Islam and Christianity, among other religions, sacred persons may be depicted with a halo in the form of a circular glow, or flames in Asian art, around the head or around the whole body—this last one is often called a mandorla. Halos may be shown as almost any colour or combination of colours, but are most often depicted as golden, yellow or white when representing light or red when representing flames.

The mystic five-armed pentacle/pentagram appears in QFG3 as a symbol in Sekhmet's test. For early Christians, the five pointed star, or pentagram represented the five wounds of Christ. But it also has strong cult/pagan traditions as well.

A cup possibly representing the 'holy grail' appears in QFG3 as a symbol in Sekhmet's test.

In Sekhmet's temple is a reference to "..smites you for this blasphemy!" Generally speaking the concept of Blasphemy not only being a term that appeared in the Middle-ages; "the act of insulting or showing contempt or lack of reverence for God " which has more Christian influence in its relationship to the language. It is actually something more related to all Abrahamic religions including Christianity, Judaism, and Islam. However, ancient Egyptians did actually punish for blasphemy even if they may not have used the same term. Cultic (blasphemy, stealing from temple offerings or offerings to the dead, defiling the purity of a sacred place)

See also

• Religion (Hero-U)

Behind the scenes

Religion and even specific names for Religion were sometimes discussed by in-universe characters in The School For Heroes. For example this article from the Bard Intructor Lorenzo mentioning Islam, Christianity, Judaism.

It’s all about the words, really. Words are powerful things. They can encourage, discourage, incite, calm, prove, disprove, bless, or condemn. They can inform or sometimes obfuscate. Western religious scriptures – whether Christian, Jewish, or Muslim – are often called “The Word” or “The Word of God”.

Sometimes Moira also talked about Buddhism and Christianity, mentioning Christ, and wishing a happy Easter.

The message of Christianity is one of hope, love, compassion, and forgiveness. The role of the minister is to teach this message to others by example. A true minister of Christ should be loving and helpful. He should be a Paladin.

It would be wonderful if we had more such ministers and Paladins in our worlds.

Your analogy of God as a Genie was sadly amusing. I think many Christian people think that God will grant them their wish if only they pray really hard.

Buddhists are not so unrealistic. They know that life is hard and filled with suffering. We need to let our souls rise above our sufferings.

What the Christian Church offers is hope. Hope for the future. We all need hope in our lives. It is what keeps us believing that our lives can and will be better than they are now. It is hope and faith that keeps us Paladins inspired to act with kindness and generosity.

One doesn't have to believe in God to believe in the power of kindness. Even atheists can be Paladins.

I hope you have had a very happy Easter and may that happiness of knowing that Christ loves you give you strength to build a bright future.

As for "theurgy", Quest for Glory and the school have both carefully avoided any touch of religion in their content.

Glorianna is a world without the ethics system of Good/Evil and Law/Chaos imposed upon the player. There was no major religion dominating the world.

However, Lori Cole later pointed out at least in the Hero-U version of the universe:

"Of all the Mythologies of afterlife, Greek myths were the most defined and richest. In the history of Gloriana, Greece had a more dominate and extensive influence than on our world. Thus, Hades dominates the afterlife because more people believe in that version of afterlife. However, while it is called Hades in the Med Sea region, it is called Niflheim in the northern regions - the abode of all those souls who did not die in battle and did not go to Valhalla. Yes, there are other Mythos that have afterlives, but these are the major ones."

"Note that there is no "Cleric" or "Priest" class in Quest for Glory. Lori and I wanted to keep religion out of the games. Our Paladins are paragons of ethics and morality, but are not driven by religious beliefs."-Corey Cole

We based Shapeir from Persian Arabian Nights tales. Quest for Glory tried to avoid religion.

The Castle of Dr. Brain Hintbook has a few puzzles that mention Nineveh, Moses, Ark, and 'great flood', and Noah.

Clerics and Priests do appear in Corey Cole's The Tower of Indomitable Circumstance which was later retconned as taking place in the world of Coriann.