In the universe of Warhammer 40K, humanity isn’t just shaped by a strictly militarized regime, and that means there’s more to it than just Space Marines and Martian tech wizards. It’s also home to a powerful religious order that worships the Emperor of Mankind as a god. In the Blood and Zeal box set, about half of the figures are fervent zealots, completely absorbed by their faith in a false deity. These figures bear the responsibility of vast civilian populations in the 41st millennium, while the rest of the miniatures align with the forces of Chaos.
Known as the Ecclesiarchy, this theocratic branch of the Empire might be the most cunning element lurking in the 40K universe. It centers around the worship of a man who literally pleaded, “please do not worship me,” to many, countless times. Yet, the narrative reveals that some saw an opportunity for power by forming the Cult of the Emperor. This cult serves as a great tool for maintaining control—a means to subdue the ordinary folk. While the Ecclesiarchy isn’t the creator of humanity’s darker tendencies, like xenophobia and mob violence, it’s certainly not working to stop them. In the grim setting of the Imperium, their violence and fear aren’t mishaps—they’re part of the grand design. And now, there are miniatures to embody that very notion.
These figures, representing the most submissive and fanatical beings, are aptly paired with Chaos forces in the box. The lore accompanying them highlights the sheer number of Ecclesiarchy members compared to Space Marines. It’s possible there are more of these religious zealots in this future galaxy than there are members of the Imperial Guard—and they’re not portrayed positively.
Yet, these fanatics are depicted as the very fabric that keeps the Imperium of Mankind together. Without their fervor and dedication, humanity might crumble and succumb to the likes of Chaos, Tyranids, Orks, or countless other factions eager to wipe humanity from the cosmos. It’s crucial, in a way, to finally have a visual representation of these characters.
While Blood and Zeal adds depth to the universe’s narrative and expands the content for Kill Team, it also fills a gap in the broader Warhammer hobby. These figures should play a part in every facet of tabletop 40K, from Kill Team and Necromunda to the expansive Warhammer 40,000 and even role-playing games like Imperium Maledictum.
Personally, I’m not a fan of these characters, yet I appreciate their existence in physical form. I suggest collecting them, if only to finally stare them down and confront what they represent.
