In the dystopian universe of Warhammer 40K, humanity isn’t just shaped by a dark, militarized regime; it’s also steeped in the beliefs of an influential theocracy. This powerful religious order holds the Emperor of Mankind in divine regard, treating him as an actual god. Dive into the Blood and Zeal box, and you’ll find it packed with fervent zealots, lost in worship of this questionable deity, who have taken it upon themselves to shoulder the immense responsibility for the well-being of countless civilians in the 41st millennium. Meanwhile, the rest of the miniatures pledge their allegiance to Chaos.
This theocratic powerhouse, known as the Ecclesiarchy, stands out as one of the most unnerving elements of 40K’s lore. Despite the Emperor’s repeated admonishments against divine worship, history tells of those who seized the opportunity to form the Cult of the Emperor. This cult morphed into a tool of dominance, used to keep the masses in check. While the Ecclesiarchy isn’t the source of all humanity’s darker tendencies—such as xenophobia and violent vigilantism—it certainly doesn’t resist them. The pervasive fear and aggression across the Imperium aren’t accidental glitches; they’re deliberate institutions. Finally, we have miniatures that embody this unsettling truth.
Encased with the forces of Chaos, these miniatures depict the most blindly obedient zealots in existence. Immersing yourself in the narrative enclosed with these figures reveals a staggering reality: the Ecclesiarchy likely outnumbers Space Marines by billions. In fact, there might even be more of these religious fanatics than there are Imperial Guardsmen across this far-future galaxy. They’re a maddening presence.
Nevertheless, they perform a vital societal function as the very fabric holding the Imperium of Mankind together. Without their passionate fervor and vehement opposition, humanity could crumble, falling prey to threats like Chaos, the Tyranids, the Orks, or countless other deadly factions lurking in the galaxy. Therefore, it’s crucial, on some level, to now have visual representations of these characters.
Blood and Zeal doesn’t just enrich the expansive world-building of 40K with its storytelling and Kill Team features; it also occupies a significant spot in the broader hobby. These figures fit seamlessly into all facets of tabletop 40K—whether it’s Kill Team, Necromunda, the full-fledged Warhammer 40,000 wargame, or tabletop RPGs like Imperium Maledictum.
Admittedly, I find them quite detestable. Yet, I’m glad they exist as tangible models. I suggest acquiring them, if only to finally confront them eye-to-eye.
