Human

All species · Backgrounds · Origin feats

Humans are the pinnacle of God's creation. While the order and life that preceded humans in the creation story was all "good," only human beings were created in the "image" and "likeness" of God. This means that humans are called to a higher standard of morality. Humans are called to do what is right, no matter the cost. Unfortunately, the race of humankind has a long history of falling short of this calling.

Endowed with no supernatural gifts, humans walk by faith and spend their short lives trying to accomplish as much as possible. As such, humans generally have talents in many areas rather than mastering any one particular skill.

A History of Conflict

Due to the competitive nature of human civilization, most groups of humans have the unfortunate trait of becoming extremely tribal. This tendency has led to conflict and war between neighboring kingdoms, with many humans harboring deep prejudices based on race, religion, culture, and language.

The recent conquests of Alexander the Great made great strides toward uniting the human race under a common language and opening up trade between distant kingdoms. Nevertheless, it is unfortunately true that in most kingdoms outsiders are often treated with suspicion and sometimes outright discrimination.

Increasingly Diverse

Despite this history of prejudice, relationships and even marriages between people of different cultures is becoming increasingly common. Many humans have now grown accustomed to the idea of traveling to new kingdoms and learning new languages, and each new generation is feeling more comfortable with the idea of searching for a spouse outside of the boundaries of their home town.

The result of this is an increasingly diversified community of people, with children who feel at home in the cultures of both of their parents. By the first century, virtually every kingdom on the map had become a melting pot, with main streets filled with examples of every culture, religion, language, and ethnicity.

Creating a Human Character

Consider the cultural influences of the character you are creating. Review the different people groups in the introduction to decide your character's background, religion, and language. Use the following information as a guideline for choosing your character's name.

Parthian Peoples. The culture of the people of Parthia is eclectic. Once a world power in their own right, Parthia had dealings with people from all over the map, all of whom left their mark on the Parthian way of life.

Parthian Names: (Male) Beltschazzar, Balathu, Merudach, Meshakh, Pacorus, Zaidu; (Female) Davcina, Esther, Ia, Kishar, Mylitta, Opis, Shala, Tayma, Zirrat.

Egyptian Peoples. The Egyptians held a position of undisputed world power for over 2000 years. Their architecture and artwork are unrivaled in beauty and sheer scale.

Egyptian Names: (Male) Amam, Areius, Horos, Imhotep, Ptolemy, Theon, Zopyrus; (Female) Anit, Charmion, Eboni, Iras, Isi, Nefertari, Rashida, Sati, Sotep, Sslama, Taimhotep.

Hebrew Peoples. This people goes through several name changes over time. During the height of their kingdom, they were known as the Israelites. By the first century they are commonly known as Jews.

Hebrew/Jewish Names: (Male) Josiah, Tovi, Samuel, Simon, Uzziel; (Female) Ayala, Diana, Eliora, Gal, Ra'aya, Rachel.

Roman Peoples. The empire of Rome hails from across the Great Sea and stretches as far north as modern day London. Romans tend toward lawful social structures and respect for authority.

Roman Names: (Male) Agrippa, Cassius, Kaeso, Lar, Marcus, Maximus, Quintis, Titus; (Female) Aurelia, Auria, Cornelia, Livia, Lucia, Maria, Portia, Vesuvia.

Nomadic Peoples. The people of Midian, Petra, and other smaller tribes through the border regions of Zin are nomadic by necessity and are often overlooked for not having a kingdom of their own.

Nomadic Names: (Male) Arkaan, Eldan, Jasir, Khaalid, Ohad, Rajab, Sar-El, Shila, Zaahir; (Female) Ameena, Gaitha, Namira, Neshama, Sabira, Salma, Sanaa, Sinaya.

Sabean Peoples. The people of Sheba are dark-skinned and powerfully built, and tend to be above average in height. They are known for being articulate speakers and prolific traders.

Sabean Names: (Male) Ibrahim, Kabede, Mamdooh, Mubarak, Mulugeta, Obi, Rashad; (Female) Azeeza, Delina, Eden, Ifrah, Kendi, Laila, Naila, Retta.

Greek Peoples. The Greeks can be found throughout the map, and thanks to Alexander the Great, their cultural influences are also visible around the world.

Greek Names: (Male) Agis, Anaxandrias, Leonidas, Lycurgus, Lysander, Menelaus, Nabis; (Female) Cynisca, Electra, Gorgo, Helen, Ismene, Magda.

Human Traits

Creature Type: Humanoid

Size: Medium (about 4-7 feet tall) or Small (about 2-4 feet tall), chosen when you select this species

Speed: 30 feet

As a Human, you have these special traits.

Resourceful. You gain Heroic Inspiration whenever you finish a Long Rest.

Skillful. You gain proficiency in one skill of your choice.

Versatile. You gain an Origin feat of your choice (see "Feats"). Skilled is recommended.

Age in the Bible5e Setting

Age. Humans were considered to become adults at the age of 13, and could live into their late 70s.