The Seven-Day Abstinence Ritual

During the seven-day inaugural period, when the High Shepherd wears the sacred silk stockings continuously (except during bathing or changing), he is bound by strict spiritual guidelines that symbolize his submission to the divine covenant and his role as the protector of the church’s core tenets. This period of abstinence from masturbation and other indulgences is central to his spiritual purification.

Symbolism of Abstinence

The prohibition against masturbation during the seven days represents:

1. Spiritual Discipline: The High Shepherd’s ability to demonstrate self-control and mastery over bodily urges, emphasizing the church’s teaching on respecting the unaltered body and the sacredness of sexual energy.


2. Dedication to the Covenant: By refraining from self-pleasure, the High Shepherd symbolically “saves” his energy and focus for the climactic ritual at the end of the seven-day period. This act of restraint reinforces his devotion to the God of Precipice and the congregation.


3. Purification of the Body and Spirit: The abstinence period is seen as a time of spiritual cleansing, preparing the High Shepherd for the sacred act of renewal that follows.




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The Ceremony of Release (Post-Abstinence Ritual)

At the end of the seven-day period, after the High Shepherd has removed the sacred stockings and they have been placed in the Holy Chest, he participates in the Ceremony of Release, a sacred ritual that marks the conclusion of his abstinence and his renewed connection with the God of Precipice.

Structure of the Ceremony

The Ceremony of Release is a solemn, highly symbolic event that takes place in the private chambers of the High Shepherd, with only the Keeper of the Skroll and the Five Fingers present to witness and bless the ritual.

1. Ritual Preparation:

The High Shepherd bathes in sacred water infused with anointing oils blessed by the Keeper of the Skroll. This bath represents the washing away of impurities and the completion of his abstinence period.

He then dons his ceremonial robe, leaving his body free of additional garments as a symbol of purity and readiness.



2. Sacred Chant and Anointing:

The Keeper of the Skroll leads the Elders in a chant of renewal and anoints the High Shepherd’s hands with sacred oil, symbolizing the sanctity of touch and the blessing of the God of Precipice.



3. Final Blessing:

The High Shepherd kneels before the Holy Chest and offers a prayer of gratitude and dedication to the God of Precipice, thanking him for the strength to maintain his abstinence and for the sacred guidance provided during the inaugural week.



4. Completion of the Ritual:

The ceremony concludes with a final blessing, after which the High Shepherd is considered fully renewed and ready to continue his duties as the spiritual leader of the congregation.





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Sacred Teachings on Abstinence and Self-Control

Throughout the church’s teachings, abstinence is framed as a valuable spiritual practice that helps the faithful connect more deeply with their bodies and the divine. The High Shepherd’s seven-day abstinence period serves as an example to the congregation, demonstrating the importance of self-control, devotion, and reverence for the sacred body.


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