The High Council is the the theocratic governing body of the Covenant. It can be compared to a Covenant Cabinet. The High Council consisted of Elites and Prophets and was headed by a triumvirate known as the High Prophets or "Hierarchs." Most of the Elite members of the council were assassinated in Halo 2 as part of the High Prophet of Truth's plan to replace Elites with Brutes in Covenant society.
The theocratic Covenant follows the orders of the high council to the letter. They are the entire government of the Covenant. The High Council seems to be split into smaller sub-groups, with different tasks and goals.
The Council of Concordance [1] As they created the Writ of Union, and the Ratification Parley, it is likely that they deal with legal and civilian matters of the Covenant.
The Council of Deed and Doctrine [2] As the essay from the Prophet of Supposition on the Flood was sent to this council, it is likely that they deal with intelligence matters.
The Council of Masters [3] Deals with tactical and strategic matters, and may be present in theaters of combat [4].
The Ministry of Truth Apparently hires Jackals as mercenaries against UNSC civilian vessels [5], and may be a Special Warfare branch of the High Council. Combined with the fact that they also have an extensive library of Forerunner Glyphs (mentioned by Joseph Staten in an interview), the Ministry of Truth may be the Covenant version of ONI.
Known Council Members
High Prophets
Councilor Elites
Trivia
- "What hope has this alliance
If we cannot conquer
Doubt of faith not each other-
If our belief should falter?
But put an ear to the stones
of this Holy City
Inside Their voices echo still:
"Seven rings begin the Journey!"" - — Excerpt, Ratification Parley, High Council or Concordance
Sources
- ^ Halo 2
- ^ Conversations from the Universe
- ^ Halo: The Flood, page 62
- ^ Halo:The Flood
- ^ http://halosm.bungie.org/story/staten102204.html