OVA's Lore: Sheikah High Priestesses

Evening! Dropping some more lore before I get started with my Zora's Domain items. My high priestess, Tali, should be finished by the beginning of next week. This is the general information.

*Please note this is not official information. This is a personal exploration.

An early design of Tali, a high priestess

The title of high priestess is held by those who have abundant spiritual awareness and a strong connection to Hylia. Although the title is a modern addition to their history, women who’ve possessed these traits in the past have been regarded for their numinous leadership. A high priestess will normally upkeep a shrine with elevated spiritual energy; usually at springs, labyrinths, and within the Great Hyrule Forest. It is considered rare to possess the abilities necessary to perform these duties, as the mental, physical, and spiritual toll can be great. It is speculated one must have an ancestor chosen by Hyila to possess such strength. The highest number honored with this title at once reached its peak during the century in which the hero slept. A dozen high priestesses protected what is known as the Sacred Lands together during this time.

Like shrine maidens, girls of 13 and up take the trials. If one is eligible, she is given a choice: priestess training after completing the initial five years, or joining the field and earning the rank of shrine maiden. If one chooses to continue instruction, there are another five years before becoming a high priestess. Most of this time is spent strengthening spiritual attributes and learning how to use them. A high priestess must take the following:

• The Holy Calendar

• Ancient texts of Hylia

• Rituals of the Goddess

Depending on one’s personal levels, she will train in protection, healing, or both. A priestess’ abilities can be essential to the survival of her fellow sisters. While combat is not heavily honed, a high priestess can handle herself in danger. However, this should only be during an absolutely necessary situation. A priestess is always accompanied by at least two shrine maidens whenever outside of Kakariko or Hateno. Her sisters are responsible for her protection. 

A high priestess’ second journey is to a shrine in the Sacred Lands. There, trainees get hands-on experience and mentorship out in the field. Energy within these areas fluctuates differently, and some need time to get accustomed to these shifts. A trainee will spend the last two years of tutoring in the Sacred Lands. Once these years are completed, the class returns to Kakariko to receive their tattoos and the blessing of the High Council. One is then anointed at their choice of spring; usually the trait they hope most to uphold within the Triforce. While some high priestesses serve within the Sacred Lands, others remain within Kakariko and Hateno. Her regular duties include:

• Morning, afternoon, and evening prayers for the land and its people

• Interpreting the will of Hylia

• Observation of the Holy Calendar

• Record keeping and preservation

• Conducting meetings and ceremonies

Priestesses gifted with protection energy are more likely to be placed within the Sacred Lands. Their abilities are used to maintain the spiritual barrier and protect their fellow sisters. On the other hand, those with healing proficiency are retained and dispatched according to needs. They treat illness and injury within the organization as well as the general public. Maternal aid and delivery is also offered.

High priestesses may serve until 90 years of age. They may retire early for the same reasons as a shrine maiden. Once a high priestess is 90 she is retired at the same spring from her anointing. Since high priestesses are rare, when retired she is given a permanent spot on the High Council as an Elder. This is the supreme rank within the organization. At the beginning of the century after the Great Calamity, three Elders presided over the organization. At least one is present for all major ceremonies and meetings. While uncommon, if an issue cannot be resolved within the High Council, the matter is left to discuss among the Elders for a final decision. Elders will normally carry on their studies to continue the betterment of the community.