Chapter 4: Culture and Science

“Let me give you some words of warning before you plunge into your studies and forget the most basic tenets in pursuit of your goddess-given curiosity. Knowledge is distributed unevenly. This may seem unfair to you at first, but keep in mind that knowledge is only a tool, just as an axe is a tool. An axe splits a log so I can have a warm fire in winter, but it is also an impressive weapon, whether in the hands of an experienced fighter or a carefree child. Is the axe good or bad? In truth the axe is just an axe. The wielder decides if it used for good or for evil.

It is the same with knowledge. Knowledge is not equal to knowledge. The knowledge of agriculture and the choice of plants, given to us by benevolent Peraine, sister of our lady Hesinde, is basic and down to earth. It can hardly be used for evil. Therefore it is important and good, that this knowledge widespread and everyone has access to it. The knowledge of sword fighting is far more dangerous and one must practice it for many hours before entering combat or else risk injuring oneself or one’s friends. Because the knowledge of sword fighting is so dangerous, another sister of our lady Hesinde, the tempestuous Rondra, established many rules to prevent abuse of that knowledge.

Think of the disasters that could be wrought by knowledge of a particular spell, the formula for a dangerous alchemical substance like Hylain Fire, or even worse, something that could endanger the salvation of a human soul?

The all-knowing lady Hesinde teaches us that knowledge without wisdom is perilous. This is why we conduct research and discuss our findings so thoroughly. May Hesinde’s wisdom guide us as we decide which information to share, and with whom.”
—novice mistress in the Halls of Wisdom (Hesinde’s main temple) in Kuslik, 1040 FB