The Ori (pronounced "OR-eye") are fictional characters on the Stargate SG-1 television program. Collectively, they are a group of "ascended" humans who use their advanced technology and spiritual knowledge of the universe to trick non-ascended humans into worshiping them as gods.
They were introduced into Stargate SG-1 in its 9th Season, replacing the Goa'uld as the show's primary antagonists. Whilst the Goa'uld relied almost exclusively on technology to portray godlike power, the Ori are one step further - beings of almost godlike power, but nevertheless not gods. The Ori fabricated a religion, called Origin, which they force on all non-ascended beings for the purpose of total control. The Ori try to destroy anyone who rejects their religion. A central theme that surrounds story arcs involving the Ori is that power does not make someone a god, nor does great power entitle anyone to be worshipped; rather, the way they use great power is the measure of how they should be revered.
The Ori are perhaps the greatest threat to our galaxy ever depicted in the series. They are a cosmic threat, with the power to expand their influence between galaxies without trouble. At the beginning of Season 9, Daniel Jackson and Vala Mal Doran accidentally alert the Ori to the existence of human life in the Milky Way, attracting their attention (and ire). At the climax of Season 9 four Ori warships, piloted by their fanatic followers, enter the Milky Way through a supergate and engage a combined force of Earth, Jaffa, Asgard and Lucian Alliance forces.
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