| Ilmater | |
|---|---|
| Titles | The Crying God, The Broken God |
| Gender | Male |
| Power Level | Intermediate Deity |
| Alignment | Lawful Good |
| Domains | Endurance, Suffering, Martyrdom, Perseverance |
| Holy Symbol | Pair of white hands bound at the wrist with a red cord |
| Favored Weapon | Club |
| Cleric Domains | Life |
Ilmater is the god of endurance, suffering, and martyrdom — a deity who willingly takes on the pain of others and teaches that suffering borne with dignity has spiritual meaning. He is depicted as a small, weeping man covered in wounds, yet with an expression of profound peace and compassion. He does not cause suffering; he witnesses it, shares it, and helps others survive it.
Ilmater is deeply beloved among the poor, the downtrodden, the sick, and the oppressed. He represents the idea that even in the worst suffering, there is worth, dignity, and the possibility of endurance. His faith asks much of its followers — to voluntarily take on hardship in service of others.
Followers
Ilmater’s followers are healers, martyrs, those who care for the sick and dying, and anyone who chooses to sacrifice their own comfort for others. His clergy are among the most self-sacrificing in the world — they work in the worst conditions, with the most desperate people, and are expected to give of themselves until it hurts. They tend to be extraordinarily compassionate, patient, and humble, sometimes to the point that others worry about their wellbeing.
Divine Relationships
Ilmater is closely allied with Tyr and Torm as part of the Triad, though his gentle nature sometimes creates tension with their more assertive approaches to justice. He is also allied with Lathander and Chauntea, who share his investment in the welfare of mortal people. His enemies are those who cause needless suffering — Bane, Bhaal, Talona, and Loviatar (the goddess of pain, who twists suffering into cruelty).