Is Azura a Khajiit? Unraveling the Mysteries of the Daedric Prince
Unequivocally, Azura is not a Khajiit. While deeply revered by the Khajiit as Azurah, she is a Daedric Prince, a being of immense power originating from Oblivion. Her relationship with the Khajiit is one of creation and guardianship, not shared race. She’s more accurately associated with the Dunmer (Dark Elves), whom she transformed from the Chimer.
Understanding Azura’s Nature
Azura exists as a powerful entity beyond the confines of mortal races. Daedric Princes, unlike the Aedra, did not participate in the creation of Mundus (the mortal plane) and therefore exist outside its laws and limitations. They can manifest in various forms and are not bound by a single lineage or physical form. Azura’s connection to both the Dunmer and the Khajiit stems from specific acts of divine intervention, not a shared biological origin. She is considered one of the more “benevolent” Daedra though it is important to remember that “benevolence” in Daedric terms is a far cry from conventional morality.
Azura’s Role in Khajiiti Creation
The Khajiit creation myth states that Azurah, guided by Fadomai, shaped the Khajiit from some of Nirni’s children, who were originally forest-dwelling people who later become the Wood Elves. This act wasn’t one of racial transformation in the same way she created the Dunmer. Instead, Azurah molded and gifted these beings with unique forms tied to the phases of the moons, Masser and Secunda. These phases determine the different breeds of Khajiit, ranging from the housecat-like Alfiq to the towering Senche-raht. This celestial influence is a key differentiating factor in their creation and is the cornerstone of Khajiiti culture.
Azura and the Dunmer: A Shared History
Azura’s link to the Dunmer is dramatically different. The Dunmer were once the Chimer, a nomadic elven tribe. After the death of Nerevar and the betrayal of the Tribunal (Vivec, Almalexia, and Sotha Sil) who broke their promise to Azura to not take power from the Heart of Lorkhan, Azura cursed them, transforming their skin to ash-grey and their eyes to burning red. This curse wasn’t born of malice but of a profound sense of betrayal. The Dunmer maintain a complex relationship with Azura, both revering her and being constantly reminded of her power and their transgression.
Azura’s Appearance: A Matter of Choice
Azura’s commonly depicted form resembles a Dark Elf or Dunmer. However, Daedric Princes can manifest in any form they choose. Her adoption of a Dunmer-like appearance is believed to be a constant reminder to the Dunmer of her influence, a visual symbol of their shared history and her enduring power over them. It is a statement that reinforces her role as both creator and judge.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
H3 What race is Azura considered to be?
Azura is not considered to belong to any mortal race like Khajiit, Dunmer, or human. She is a Daedric Prince, a being of immense power from Oblivion, existing outside the mortal sphere.
H3 What do the Khajiit call Azura?
The Khajiit refer to Azura as Azurah, the Mother of All Khajiit. This emphasizes her role in their creation and her continued influence on their lives and culture.
H3 What is Azura’s sphere of influence?
Azura’s sphere is dawn and dusk, the magic in-between realms, the transitions and liminal spaces. She is also associated with prophecy, magic, and fate.
H3 Is Azura an Aedra or Daedra?
Azura is a Daedra. Aedra, which means “ancestor,” are the divines who participated in the creation of Mundus and, in doing so, lost a significant portion of their power. Daedra did not participate and thus retain their full, unbridled power.
H3 Who are Azura’s enemies?
While not necessarily having specific “enemies,” Azura is often portrayed as being against necromancy and the undead. She also opposes those who would corrupt or abuse her creations, including the Dunmer when they stray from her path. Her immortal enemy is Meridia’s enemy, Molag Bal.
H3 How many types of Khajiit are there?
There are said to be 17 distinct breeds of Khajiit, each determined by the phases of Masser and Secunda at the time of their birth. Only a few have been seen in The Elder Scrolls games.
H3 Why do Khajiit look so different from each other?
The appearance of a Khajiit is not determined by genetics like most races in Tamriel. Instead, it is dictated by the phases of the two moons, Masser and Secunda, at the time of their birth. This celestial influence results in a wide variety of breeds.
H3 Did Azura curse the Chimer to become the Dunmer?
Yes, Azura cursed the Chimer, transforming them into the Dunmer. This was in response to the Tribunal betraying their oath to her and claiming divine power from the Heart of Lorkhan. The curse changed their skin to ash-grey and their eyes to red.
H3 Is Azura a benevolent Daedric Prince?
Compared to many Daedric Princes, Azura is often considered benevolent. She is known for her concern for her followers and her interventions on their behalf. However, her actions are still driven by her own Daedric motivations, which may not align with human morality.
H3 Why are Khajiit not allowed inside some cities?
Khajiit often face prejudice and discrimination in Tamriel, particularly in areas like Skyrim. This is often due to stereotypes of them being thieves and drug addicts. As a result, they are sometimes barred from entering cities and are forced to camp outside the walls.
H3 How did Azura create the Khajiit?
According to Khajiit lore, Azura, guided by Fadomai, took some of Nirni’s children and shaped them into the Khajiit, giving them their diverse forms based on the phases of the moons. This act was a distinct creation, not simply a transformation of an existing elven race.
H3 Is Azura good or evil?
The question of whether Azura is “good” or “evil” is subjective. Daedric Princes operate outside the conventional morality of mortals. Azura is often considered one of the more benevolent Daedra, but she can also be ruthless and vengeful when she feels betrayed or her interests are threatened.
H3 What is Azura of the Crimson Gate?
Azura of the Crimson Gate is one of Azura’s many titles, representing her association with the transitional state between realms and the mystical power found in those thresholds.
H3 Can Khajiit interbreed with other races?
It is unclear whether Khajiit can interbreed with humans or elves. While there have been reports and stories of such unions throughout history, there is no well-documented evidence of viable offspring.
H3 Where can I learn more about the lore of The Elder Scrolls?
You can explore the depths of The Elder Scrolls lore through various resources, including the UESP (Unofficial Elder Scrolls Pages) wiki, in-game books and dialogue, and community discussions. You can also learn about how games like The Elder Scrolls can be used for education and research at the Games Learning Society website: GamesLearningSociety.org.