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Insofar as the Craft of the Wise is the most ancient and most honorable creed of humankind, it behooves all who are Witches to act in ways that give respect to the Old Gods, to their sisters and brothers of the Craft, and to themselves. Therefore, be it noted that:  Chivalry is a
high code of honor which is of most ancient Pagan origin,
and must be lived by all who follow the Old Ways. It must be
kenned that thoughts and intent put forth on this
middle-Earth will wax strong in otherworlds beyond, and
return...bringing into creation, on this world, that
which had been sent forth. Thus one should exercise
discipline, for "as ye do plant, so shall ye
harvest." It is only by
preparing our minds to be as Gods that we can ultimately
attain godhead. "This
above all...to thine own self be true..." A Witch's word
must have the validity of a signed and witness oath.
Thus, give thy word sparingly,but adhere to it like iron.
Refrain from
speaking ill of others, for not all truths of the matter
may be known. Pass not
unverified words about another, for heresay is, in a
large part, a thing of falsehoods. Be thou honest
with others, and have them known that honesty is likewise
expected of them. The fury of
the moment plays folly with the truth; to keep one's head
is a virtue. Contemplate
always the consequences of thine acts upon others. Strive
not to harm. Diverse covens
may well have diverse news on love between members and
with others. When a coven, clan or grove is visited or
joined, one should discern quietly their practices, and
abide thereby. Dignity, a
gracious manner, and a good humor are much to be admired.
As a Witch,
thou hast power, and thy powers wax strongly as wisdom
increases. Therefore exercise discretion in the use
thereof. Courage and
honor endure forever. Their echoes remain when the
mountains have crumbled to dust. Pledge
friendship and fealty to those who so warrant. Strengthen
others of the Brethren and they shall strengthen thee. Thou shall not
reveal secrets of another Witch or another coven. Others
have labored long and hard for them and cherish them as
treasures. Though there
may be differences between those of the Old Ways, those
who are once-born must see nothing,and must hear nothing.
Those who
follow the mysteries should be above reproach in the eyes
of the world. The laws of
the land should be obeyed whenever possible and within
reason, for in the main they have been chosen with
wisdom. Have pride in
thyself, and seek perfection in body and in mind. For the
Lady has said, "How can thou honor another unless
thou give honor to thyself first?" Those who seek
the mysteries should consider themselves as select of the
Gods, for it is they who lead the race of humans to the
highest of thrones and beyond the very stars |
