Welcome to our world. Rather than try to explain our setting, I thought it best to share the setting. This story by Skip says it all I think.
Oku and Udon in the Dojo
Gathering leads to success
The king goes to his shrine
it is worthwile seeing great people to attain success
it is beneficial to be true
It bodes well to make a great sacrifice
It is profitable to have somewhere to go
-the Mountain Mystic