SGCommand
Register
Advertisement

The story of Markon and the great famine that struck the village of Ver Omesh as told in the Book of Origin:

"So it came to pass that Ver Omesh was gripped by a great famine. So Markon went to the Prophet Articus and asked to go to the forest for food. The prophet bade him be patient for the Ori provide for all who have faith. But Markon did not believe. So the prophet drew a line in the sand and told him, 'step across and you may do as you wish.' So Markon did, and left the village, and feasted on wild berries. The fruit was bitter and did not satisfy him. He longed to return to the village but found that the line had widened to a great chasm. He called out to the prophet in fear, but the prophet said, 'the line has not changed. It is you who have changed. Step across if you truly believe.' So Markon prayed for forgiveness and took the first step. And the hands of the Ori enveloped all those who welcomed him back."
Book of Origin[src]

Interpretations[]

It was not uncommon for a Prior to twist a parable to fit their needs. For example, when a Prior decided to destroy a village after the villagers had agreed to accept Origin, he justified the action to Tomin by paraphrasing the story of Markon;

"Markon walked away from the Ori to satisfy his hunger. But no matter how much he ate, he did not feel full. Realizing his mistake, he ran back to the Ori. But they denied his pleas and struck down the village that welcomed him back."
Prior[src]

The main point of contention is the meaning of the word "enveloped" in the last line of the passage. The debate between Tomin and the Prior highlights the stark difference between the two interpretations;

"The Ori granted forgiveness when Markon realized his mistake, and blessed the village with their light for showing him the way back to the path."
"The village was destroyed. All those who stand by and accept transgressions must be punished.
"
Tomin and Prior[src]
Advertisement