The Path of Cogent Wisdom

By Mitchell Kelly (mitch.kelly@tesco.net)

Description

The Path of Cogent Wisdom is a Path of Enlightenment probably restricted to a few Old Clan Tzimices, some Lasombra antitribu, and ironically, some Brujah. It was first promulgated early in the ninth century, when a few powerful Tzimices elders began to consider what it was that actually prevented a vampire from becoming enlightened. Later, its tenets of learning were adopted by those who followed what was eventually called the Path of Death and the Soul. The principles of the path were that the three things that threaten control over unlife, and hence prevent enlightenment were fear, emotion and self-doubt. By conquering these three enemies, using courage, logic and knowledge, a Kindred would be free of the terrors of his existence, and free to become enlightened. These principles were to become the Three Pillars of the path.

Nickname

Learned Ones or Gnostians

Description of Followers

Gnostians are unemotional, logical and analytical. They study everything they find, and attempt to treat everything with equal dispassion. This means that they seldom commit random violence, but when threatened, or they deem violence is logical, the backlash is immediate and brutal. Also, the followers are almost evangelical in their wish to spread the tenets of the path to other Cainites. Hence, they will preach, advise and support any or all who show the least interest in their ways.

Preferred Abilities

Any Lore-based abilities are prized, as are Investigation, Research, Linguistics, Theology and Science. Preferred Disciplines are Auspex, Obfuscate and Thaumaturgy, although any that allow the Kindred to learn more easily are favoured.

Tenets of the Path

The Tenets of the Path are summarised in "The Three Pillars of Strength" written in AD 904 by Belorinus, a Tzimices elder. Belorinus drew heavily upon the Koran for his inspiration, and most Gnosticians have a copy of the Three Pillars of Strength that they carry with them at all times as both comfort and guide.

"Three is a number of power. Three things lay low even the most powerful of us: fear, self-doubt and emotion. Yet are we not given three Pillars with which to support ourselves? These Three Pillars will raise a temple in our hearts that nothing will break. Learn of these Pillars that in time you may strengthen them to defeat your enemies and come to enlightenment.

"First, Logic: Emotions are a measure of a lesser being's lack of control. You must control your emotions and focus the power of your spirit to build your inner strength. Logic allows the truth to flower. Through logic you can rise above the images of Man and Beast, and truly be what you are, Kindred, and greater than both.

"Second, Courage: Show no fear. It is better to die finally with bravery and honour than to struggle on fearing all. Fear has destroyed many of the great. This is not merely courage in battle, although that is a great thing. You must have the courage to admit your lack of knowledge, the courage stand by your principles, and the courage to do right in the face of those who would oppose you.

"Third, Knowledge: Seek knowledge in all places. Knowledge is power, both to do right, and to enlighten oneself. Learn all you can, and think well on it. Learning with thought is knowledge,. Do not simply seek words and facts, lest you become no more than a magpie, distracted from the truth by bright trinkets."

The Path's call to overcome fear and to rise above both the man and the Beast leads many to believe that it is a worthwhile path to Golconda.

Hierarchy of Sins

Acting emotionally, randomly or without forethought.


10	Failing to admit one does not know everything. Showing fear of Final Death.
9	Showing mercy when killing is justified. Failing to seek knowledge in the face of Final Death.
8	Showing fear in the face of great danger. Not aiding another in learning the Path.
7	Not spreading the Tenets of the Three Pillars. Failing to seek knowledge in the face of great danger.
6	Killing when non-lethal violence would be sufficient. Riding the Wave in Frenzy.
5	Failing to seek knowledge when there is moderate danger.
4	Showing fear of injury. Killing for no reason.
3	Failing to seek knowledge when time and opportunity present themselves. Showing fear of loss.
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1	Breaking your word or stealing. Inducing frenzy.