The Elder Scrolls III: Morrowind
The Elder Scrolls III: Morrowind

Religious Factions

Understand the Tribunal Temple and its worship of Vivec in Morrowind. Learn about this central Dunmer faction's quests, culture, and political influence.

Religious Factions

Religion plays a central role in the lives of the Dunmer people of Morrowind, and the dominant religious institution is the Tribunal Temple. This faction is deeply interwoven with the culture, politics, and daily life of Vvardenfell, offering a unique perspective on the world and a distinct set of quests for the player.

The Tribunal Temple worships the living gods Vivec, Almalexia, and Sotha Sil, collectively known as the Tribunal. These divine beings are believed to have ascended to godhood and now rule over Morrowind, protecting it from external threats and internal strife. The Temple's dogma and practices are central to Dunmer identity, and adherence to its teachings is expected of most Dunmer citizens.

The Temple's influence is vast, encompassing spiritual guidance, social services, and even military might through its Temple Guard. They are responsible for maintaining order, combating heresy, and upholding the traditions of the Dunmer people. Their presence is felt in every major settlement, with grand temples and shrines dedicated to the divine.

Key aspects of the Tribunal Temple:

  • Deities: Vivec, Almalexia, and Sotha Sil are the primary objects of worship.
  • Clergy: Priests and Ordinators serve the Temple, performing rituals, offering guidance, and enforcing its doctrines.
  • Quests: Temple quests often involve combating Daedra, rooting out heretics (such as Dagoth Ur's followers), retrieving holy artifacts, and performing acts of faith.
  • Lore: The Temple's history and mythology are rich, detailing the ascension of the Tribunal and their ongoing struggle against the Sharmat and other threats.
  • Locations: Grand temples are found in Vivec City, Balmora, Ald'ruhn, and Sadrith Mora, with smaller shrines scattered throughout Vvardenfell.

Beyond the mainstream Tribunal faith, Morrowind also has pockets of other religious or spiritual beliefs:

  • Ashlander Tribes: While not a formal faction in the same vein as the Temple, the Ashlanders maintain their own ancestral traditions and worship of the Tribunal as divine beings, but with a more ancient and less centralized approach. They also hold reverence for Azura, one of the original Daedric Princes.
  • Daedric Cults: Though officially condemned by the Temple, cults dedicated to the Daedric Princes exist in secret, often found in hidden shrines or remote locations. These cults offer a darker, more forbidden path.

Engaging with the Tribunal Temple offers a deep dive into Morrowind's unique religious landscape, providing a different perspective on the world and its conflicts. It's a path that emphasizes faith, duty, and the struggle against darkness.