Surgebinder

Surgebinder is a term used to describe individuals who possess the ability to manipulate Surge, a fundamental force within the fictional world of Roshar. This ability is central to the magic system of Brandon Sanderson's The Stormlight Archive series. Surgebinding is not an innate talent possessed by all, but rather a specific skill that requires a deep connection to the spren, sentient manifestations of emotions and concepts.

Different orders of Knights Radiant, ancient warrior-scholars, were historically associated with specific Surges. Each Surge allows for unique manipulations of the physical world. For example, Gravitation allows for the manipulation of weight and gravity, while Abrasion permits the control of friction. The combination of two specific Surges typically grants a Knight Radiant their full spectrum of abilities.

To become a Surgebinder, one must form a Nahel bond with a sapient spren. This bond is a spiritual and emotional connection that unlocks the potential to channel and control Surge. The nature of the spren and the depth of the bond directly influence the Surgebinder's power and the specific Surges they can wield. The process is often described as a journey of personal growth and understanding, as the Surgebinder and their spren learn to work in harmony. While the Knights Radiant are the most prominent Surgebinders, other individuals or groups may also exhibit similar abilities through different means, though the term "Surgebinder" is most commonly associated with this specific system of magic.