Great Temple of Bous
The Grand Temple of Bous is the central place of worship for Bovinism in Athlon. Located in Doza, the temple serves as the headquarters of the Dozan Bovic Church. Its construction began in 1536 AN and finished in 1542 AN, marking the resurgence of Bovinism after the Natopian Dark Ages.
Architecture
The temple's design blends Athlonian and Natopian architectural styles. Its exterior features massive buttresses shaped like cow legs, supporting golden-hued walls that shimmer under sunlight. The main entrance, dubbed the "Muzzle of Bous," resembles a cow's nose and mouth. Inside, the temple's layout mimics the digestive system of a cow. Worshippers enter through the "Muzzle" into the "Rumen," a vast hall where most ceremonies occur. From there, they can access the "Reticulum," a network of smaller chapels dedicated to various Bovic saints. The temple's most striking feature is its roof, fashioned to resemble a cow's hide complete with spots. These spots are actually skylights, allowing natural illumination to filter through.
Inner Sanctum
At the heart of the temple lies the Inner Sanctum, accessible only to the Pentheros and select high-ranking clergy. This chamber, shaped like a cow's heart, houses the Eternal Churn, a perpetually churning butter machine said to contain butter from the original Butter Cow. The sanctum's walls are lined with ancient Bovic texts and prophecies, some dating back to the time of Nett Opaegh. A small alcove holds the Teat of Wisdom, a curious artifact that, according to legend, dispenses divine knowledge in liquid form to those deemed worthy.
Religious Significance
The Grand Temple of Bous holds immense importance in Bovinist theology. It's believed to stand on the exact spot where the Butter Bull first appeared to the Hazel people. This event, known as the Buttery Epiphany, is commemorated annually with a week-long festival. Pilgrims flock to the temple year-round, hoping to receive blessings or participate in sacred rituals. The most sought-after experience is the Churning of the Soul, a ceremony where participants symbolically "churn" their spirits to achieve enlightenment.
Future Plans
As of 1737 AN, plans are underway to expand the temple complex. The proposed additions include a Museum of Bovic History and a Sanctuary of the Golden Calf for younger worshippers. These plans have sparked debate among conservationists who worry about preserving the temple's original character.
