This passage discusses the concept of worship and deities within fantasy settings like Forgotten Realms. Specifically, it explores how individuals might interact with multiple deities without being considered faithless.

The text begins by stating that in this cosmology, certain entities need patronage from a deity to avoid being classified as false or faithless gods. However, there are exceptions where races and pantheons may worship multiple deities. For example, the elves and other 'alien' groups might do so without consequence.

Moreover, it's noted that people often engage in practices they wouldn't necessarily label as true worship but still offer respects to various deities out of habit or superstition. This can be seen when individuals invoke a particular deity during specific events like weddings or naming ceremonies, hoping for good fortune.

The example given is the goddess Beshaba; while she's associated with bad luck and misfortune, people might call upon her sister instead as an insurance measure against potential ill fate. Similarly, people may pray to Shar (the dark goddess of death) during times of bereavement not because they actively worship her but rather out of a desire for comfort.

The passage also touches on the idea that individuals don't necessarily have just one patron deity; instead, they might offer thanks or offerings to various deities depending on their personal circumstances. For instance, someone who worships Lathander (the god of light) may still thank Chauntea (the goddess of agriculture and fertility) for a bountiful harvest in their village.

The overall message is that within these fantasy settings, people often approach religion and worship with a more pragmatic and practical mindset rather than adhering strictly to dogmatic beliefs.

Soul of a forgotten deity