Anju

Anju is a religion found in the world of Little Tail Bronx. This religion involves worshiping abstract objects that resemble feathers referred to as "Icons", as well as preaching the teachings found in their bible, which they always have with them. Religious precept is not very strict, and devout followers make a habit of worshiping on Sundays. With the majority of followers being Caninu, it's not uncommon for a city's population to mainly be made up of Anjalists in countries such as the Shepherd Republic.

The presence of Anju was first presented in Solatorobo, specifically in its holy land of Samoyede. Fuga: Melodies of Steel would go on to reveal that this religion was also present throughout the Free Lands of Gasco before the Berman Empire's invasion.

Customs and Traditions

Marriage Ceremonies

At an Anjalist wedding, the groom wears a tuxedo or frock coat, and the bride wears a wedding dress. Male attendees wear tuxedos, morning coats, or a double breasted suit (including similar attire). The females wear skirt suits, pantsuits, or various dresses (though the dress should be somewhat simple).

Funerals

Anjalist funerals involve a cremation and burying of some of the bones (fangs) while the rest is scattered to the sky. Mourners at the funeral bring "one specific white flower" (the number of flowers being the number of attendees). Males at a funeral wear a double breasted suit or attire similar to a morning coat (with the vest's cord collar removed). Females wear a skirt suit, a pantsuit, or a one-piece dress (or similar). It is customary for females to wear a black veil as a part of their attire. Regardless of gender, funeral clothing should always be black.

Traditionally, a gravesite is made to pray to the spirits. Usually only flowers are offered, and in Samoyede, the flowers of snow lilies are often offered. Headstones are simple, with a design featuring the Anju Icon.

Views on Life and Death

According to the Anju faith, when someone dies, that person continues to exist as a spirit. It is said that those who did good deeds during their lifetime go to heaven, while wrongdoers are sent to hell. Another belief is that birds are sacred messengers that return souls to heaven.