Solinari, the White Moon of Magic
Introduction
In the world of Dragonlance, where magic flows like an unseen river shaping the fate of Krynn, Solinari shines as the guiding light of benevolent magic. Known as the White Moon, Lord of High Sorcery, and Guardian of Wisdom, Solinari is the divine patron of good-aligned wizards, teaching them that magic is a gift meant to illuminate, protect, and serve the greater good.
As one of the Gods of Good, Solinari opposes those who seek to twist magic for selfish or destructive purposes, standing against the reckless ambitions of the Black Robes while fostering knowledge and discipline among the White Robes of the Orders of High Sorcery.
Origins and Role Among the Gods
Solinari is one of the three gods of magic, alongside Lunitari (neutral magic) and Nuitari (dark magic). Unlike his counterparts, Solinari believes that magic should be used responsibly, guided by wisdom, and never wielded for personal gain. He teaches that true power lies in understanding and self-restraint, and that a mage’s duty is not to rule, but to protect and enlighten.
Unlike Paladine, who leads warriors, or Mishakal, who heals, Solinari fights his battles through knowledge, discipline, and arcane mastery. He values dedication over ambition, patience over recklessness, and service over power.
Domains and Influence
Solinari is the god of:
- Good-Aligned Magic – Patron of White Robe wizards who use magic to protect and serve.
- Wisdom and Enlightenment – Encouraging the pursuit of knowledge for the betterment of all.
- Self-Discipline and Control – Teaching that magic must be used responsibly.
- Protection and Guidance – Standing as a beacon of light against misuse of arcane power.
He is worshipped primarily by White Robe wizards, scholars of arcane wisdom, and those who see magic as a sacred duty rather than a means of dominance.
The White Robes and Solinari’s Chosen
The Order of the White Robes, one of the three factions of the Orders of High Sorcery, is devoted to Solinari’s teachings. These wizards are bound by oaths to use their power to aid others, acting as healers, wardens against dark forces, and defenders of knowledge.
Unlike the Red Robes (who follow neutral magic) and the Black Robes (who seek magic for personal power), White Robe wizards believe that magic must serve the greater good, even if it means making personal sacrifices.
Symbols and Worship
Solinari appears as a wise, bearded sage in flowing white robes, carrying a staff of pure light. Sometimes, he manifests as a glowing spectral figure or as the white moon itself, which represents his eternal watch over the world of magic.
His sacred symbols include:
- A full white moon – Representing purity and wisdom.
- An open book with silver lettering – Symbolizing knowledge and enlightenment.
- A staff of white energy – A sign of controlled and disciplined magic.
Temples to Solinari are rare, as his worship is primarily carried out in the Towers of High Sorcery, where wizards study his teachings and dedicate themselves to magical mastery.
Worship and Rituals
Solinari’s worship is tied closely to the moons of Krynn, particularly his own, which influences the power of White Robe wizards. His followers do not engage in grand ceremonies but instead honor him through discipline, study, and responsible use of magic.
Important rituals include:
- The Test of High Sorcery – A sacred trial where aspiring wizards prove their wisdom and discipline before taking their robes.
- The Moonlight Vigil – A quiet meditation under Solinari’s full moon, seeking guidance in times of doubt.
- The Oath of the Mage – A vow taken by White Robe wizards to never use magic for personal greed or harm.
Allies and Rivals Among the Gods
As a God of Good, Solinari stands closest to:
- Mishakal, who shares his love for wisdom and healing.
- Majere, the god of discipline, whose teachings align with Solinari’s ideals of restraint.
- Paladine, the leader of the Gods of Good, who respects Solinari’s role in protecting Krynn’s magic.
His natural rival is Nuitari, the god of dark magic, who tempts wizards toward ambition and corruption. Though Solinari does not oppose Lunitari (neutral magic), he often warns his followers against becoming too detached from morality in their studies.
Solinari in Legends and Stories
The First Test of High Sorcery
One of the most important legends of Solinari tells of how he established the first Test of High Sorcery, ensuring that only those with the wisdom to wield magic responsibly would gain access to its true power. It is said that his light shines upon those who prove themselves worthy, guiding them through the dangers of the test.
The Battle of the Moons
A famous story tells of a time when Nuitari sought to eclipse Solinari, blotting out his light so that the world would be ruled only by dark magic. Solinari, along with Lunitari, rebelled against their brother, ensuring that Krynn’s magic would always have balance. This tale serves as a reminder that though darkness may rise, the light of wisdom can never be fully extinguished.