Peerage+Virtues

__[|http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Seven_Heavenly_Virtues#Seven_Heavenly_Virtues]__ __[]__ __[]__ __[]__

__Three Theological Virtues__ (from I Corinthians 13:13 "And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity") Love/Charity Faith Hope

__Four "classic" Western Cardinal Virtues:__ prudence/wisdom justice fortitude/courage temperance

__Seven Blessed Virtues - opposite of the seven deadly sins__ Sin: **Covetousness:/Avarice:** Virtue: **Liberality** Sin:**Lust:** Virtue:**Chastity:** Sin:**Anger:** Virtue:**Meekness:** Sin:**Gluttony:** Virtue:**Temperance:** Sin:**Envy:** Virtue:**Brotherly love:** Sin:**Sloth:** Virtue:**Diligence:** Sin:**Pride** Virtue:**Humility** :

//Tristitia// || A [|zealous] and careful nature in one's actions and work. Decisive work ethic. Budgeting one's time; monitoring one's own activities to guard against laziness.(The Vice "Acedia" is more commonly known as "Sloth") ||
 * ~ [|Virtue] [[image:http://en.wikipedia.org/skins-1.5/common/images/sort_none.gif caption="↓" link="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Seven_virtues#"]] ||~ Latin [[image:http://en.wikipedia.org/skins-1.5/common/images/sort_none.gif caption="↓" link="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Seven_virtues#"]] ||~ [|Gloss] [[image:http://en.wikipedia.org/skins-1.5/common/images/sort_none.gif caption="↓" link="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Seven_virtues#"]] ||~ (Vice) [[image:http://en.wikipedia.org/skins-1.5/common/images/sort_none.gif caption="↓" link="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Seven_virtues#"]] ||~ (Latin) [[image:http://en.wikipedia.org/skins-1.5/common/images/sort_none.gif caption="↓" link="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Seven_virtues#"]] ||~ Virtue's Meaning [[image:http://en.wikipedia.org/skins-1.5/common/images/sort_none.gif caption="↓" link="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Seven_virtues#"]] ||
 * [|Chastity] || //Castitas// || [|Purity] || [|Lust] || //Luxuria// || Abstaining from sexual conduct according to one's state in life. Embracing of moral wholesomeness and achieving purity of thought through education and betterment. ||
 * [|Temperance] || //Temperantia// || [|Self-Control] || [|Gluttony] || //Gula// || Constant mindfulness of others and one's surroundings; practicing self-control, abstention, and [|moderation]. ||
 * [|Charity] || //Caritas// || [|Will], [|Generosity] || [|Greed] || //Avaritia// || [|Generosity]. Willingness to give. A nobility of thought or actions. ||
 * [|Diligence] || //Industria// || [|Persistence], [|Effort] || [|Acedia] || //Acedia//
 * [|Patience] || //Patientia// || [|Peace] || [|Wrath] || //Ira// || Forbearance and endurance through moderation. Resolving conflicts peacefully, as opposed to resorting to [|violence]. The ability to forgive; to show [|mercy] to sinners. ||
 * [|Kindness] || //Humanitas// || [|Satisfaction] || [|Envy] || //Invidia// || [|Charity], [|compassion], [|friendship], and [|empathy] without [|prejudice] and for its own sake. ||
 * [|Humility] || //Humilitas// || [|Bravery], [|Modesty] || [|Pride] || //Superbia// || Modest behavior, [|selflessness], and the giving of respect. Giving credit where credit is due; not unfairly glorifying one's own self. ||

Icon of Sophia, Holy Wisdom (commemorated Sept. 8) from Antiochian Orthodox Christian Diocese: [] On each of the seven steps are inscribed: faith, hope, love, purity, humility, blessedness, and glory

Icon of Sophia, Holy Wisdom from Iron Sharpeneth Iron: [] > > __The seven Spiritual Works of Mercy are__: [] []
 * Glory, Grace, Humility, Purity, Love, Hope, Faith
 * 1) To convert the sinner;
 * 2) To instruct the ignorant;
 * 3) To counsel the doubtful;
 * 4) To comfort the sorrowful;
 * 5) To bear wrongs patiently;
 * 6) To forgive injuries;
 * 7) To pray for the living and the dead.

>> []
 * __ Seven Capital Christian Virtues __**
 * 1) ** Humility **—Behaving in a manner of submission, modesty, deference, or self-emptying (kenosis).Behaving humbly, that is, behaving in a humble manner. The Lord Jesus said “learn from me, for I am gentle and humble of heart”.This means not being a show-off or putting anyone else down to make yourself look good.We should be constantly building up the confidence of others and ourselves be modest in words about ourselves and put others first out of love for God.
 * 2) ** Liberality **—Freely giving of self, money, and time to the work of God in the Church and in the world, and generally wanting what is best for others.This entails an awareness that God gave you all that you have an that ultimately it is not yours, but on loan to you.Thus Liberality is summed up in the Lord’s teachings:“Freely you have received, freely give.”
 * 3) ** Chastity **—(Greek Sophrosyne) Behaving in a way that is based desire for good and pleasure doing God’s will and for other’s virtue and true happiness (rather than pleasure based on evil things and leading others down a wrong path).This includes behaving decently and modestly. This includes behaving like a young lady or a gentleman.
 * 4) ** Gentleness **—to behave in a kind, friendly, and peaceful manner
 * 5) ** Temperance **—Behaving moderately (with balance) in the satisfaction of appetites or passions, behaving with restraint and moving on to other helpful activities, dividing your time to include a variety of good activities (i.e. eating, drinking, things that you like in balance, doing other things as well—dividing your time to include other good things—leaving time to help your parents, neighbors, friends, Church, community, etc.—Play a video game for an hour but not 4 hours, this is wasteful—what about homework, chores to help out, etc.).
 * 6) ** Happiness (Joy, Joyfulness) **—“Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in the Faith, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit” (Romans 15.13).A state of well being and contentment; being pleased with the good fortune of others and with one’s own situation.“Joy” is probably the more accurate word here.Literally the term “happiness” indicates contentment with your situation and making oneself well-adapted to one’s environment.Happiness is not a “feeling” that someone “gets”, but is part of who someone is by choice and action.Having joy oneself for the joy of others.Desiring that others be happy and celebrating/rejoicing with them when good things happen.This is true happiness—it is choice and action.To choose to be content with what you have and to be in a state of satisfaction and gratefulness for your life that God has given you.Heartfelt friendliness.
 * 7) ** Diligence **—Dedication in doing the work of God.More specifically, steady, hardworking (earnest), and energetic effort to doing good to others and the world around you in accordance with God’s will.Scripture:“For God is not unjust and will not forget your work and labor of love which you have shown toward his name, in that you have ministered to the saints, and do help them (minister unto them).And we desire that each one of you show the same diligence to the full assurance of hope until the end, that you do not become sluggish, but imitate those who through faith and patience inherit the promises”(Heb. 6.10-12).

[]
 * __Nine ways of participating in another’s sin__ **
 * 1) By counsel (advising others to do something wrong)
 * 2) by command (ordering someone to do something wrong)
 * 3) by consent (agreeing with someone when they suggest that they should do something wrong, rather than admonishing them, in other words, we should tell them that it is wrong and that they shouldn’t do it, even if they get mad at us)
 * 4) by provocation (getting someone to do something wrong by saying things like:“awe come on, what are you, chicken” or “you want to fit in don’t you”)
 * 5) by praise or flattery (telling someone that they did good when they really did something wrong)
 * 6) by concealment (by keeping secret something that someone did that is wrong)
 * 7) by partaking (by helping someone do something wrong)
 * 8) by silence (by not speaking up when someone is doing something wrong)
 * 9) by defense of the sin committed (to defend or make excuses for someone who did something wrong)

Inigo's Knightly Virtues: []
 * Faith ||
 * Loyalty ||
 * (Measure) ||
 * Justice ||
 * Courage ||
 * Humility ||
 * Prowess ||
 * Largesse ||
 * Franchise ||
 * Honesty ||
 * Courtesy ||
 * Magnanimity ||

Garick's Knightly Virtues: []
 * Faith ||
 * Loyalty ||
 * Courage ||
 * Prowess ||
 * Generosity ||
 * Franchise ||
 * Honesty ||
 * Courtesy ||

There were, however, several common themes found in these lists of knightly virtues. By combining these, we have created what we consider to be the //seven knightly virtues// of the modern code of chivalry: >> More than bravado or bluster, today’s knight in shining armor must have the courage of the heart necessary to undertake tasks which are difficult, tedious or unglamorous, and to graciously accept the sacrifices involved. >> A knight in shining armor holds him- or herself to the highest standard of behavior, and knows that “fudging” on the little rules weakens the fabric of society for everyone. >> Words and attitudes can be painful weapons in the modern world, which is why a knight in shining armor exercises mercy in his or her dealings with others, creating a sense of peace and community, rather than engendering hostility and antagonism. >> Sharing what’s valuable in life means not just giving away material goods, but also time, attention, wisdom and energy — the things that create a strong, rich and diverse community. >> In the code of chivalry, “faith” means trust and integrity, and a knight in shining armor is always faithful to his or her promises, no matter how big or small they may be. >> Although this word is sometimes confused with “entitlement” or “snobbishness,” in the code of chivalry it conveys the importance of upholding one’s convictions at all times, especially when no one else is watching. >> More than just a safety net in times of tragedy, hope is present every day in a modern knight’s positive outlook and cheerful demeanor — the shining armor that shields him or her, and inspires people all around.
 * **The Seven Knightly Virtues:** || by **Scott Farrell** ||
 * Essential elements of today’s code of chivalry ||
 * There was no such thing as a “uniform” code of chivalry in the Middle Ages. Many people — from successful knights to contemplative philosophers — compiled lists of virtuous qualities, called the “knightly virtues,” which they felt defined chivalry. No two were exactly the same.
 * **Courage**
 * **Justice**
 * **Mercy**
 * **Generosity**
 * **Faith**
 * **Nobility**
 * **Hope**

Each of these concepts is important in itself, and every one of these virtues is an admirable quality, but when all of them blend together in one person, we discover the value, and power, of //chivalry today.// Modern-day knights should strive to keep these virtues alive in their own hearts, but, perhaps more importantly, they should work to bring these wonderful qualities out in the people they see every day — at home, in the office, at school or on the street corner. A person who lives by the code of chivalry in today’s world allows everyone to see their best qualities reflected in his or her shining armor. [] ||

[] __Courage__ ====Courage "The state or quality of mind or spirit that enables one to face danger, fear, or vicissitudes with self-possession, confidence, and resolution; bravery." I've heard people say that it takes //courage// to accept a killing blow and accept defeat, when the prize is before your eyes and nobody else would ever know the blow wasn't good. They are wrong. This is Honesty, not Courage. Courage is facing up to fear. Fear is very real and can be very disabling. Fear need not be rational to be disabling. []====
 * The Canterbury Tales**//Prologue//
 * Courage**//have//[]

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"Polite behavior. Willingness or generosity in providing something needed." The stereotypical examples of courtesy are opening doors and offering chairs. These are both fine examples and if done well are often appreciated. If you travel through life with your eyes open, you will see all around you people who need assistance. They�re easy to spot. They look flustered, are carrying too much, are looking for something or someone� True courtesy cannot be faked and does not need flowery words. It thrives where there is a genuine interest in helping your fellow man, be they friend or stranger. Lifelong friendships have started from an act as simple as sharing a meal with a stranger or helping someone carry a heavy basket across a field. []===== ====__Faith__ The word **//faith//** has various uses; its central meaning is equivalent to "belief", "trust" or "confidence". As such, the object of faith can be either a person (or even an inanimate object or state of affairs) or a proposition (or body of propositions, such as a religious credo). In religious contexts, "faith" means trust or belief in God (or the gods) of one's religion. It also refers to the belief that one's religious tenets are true. It is in the latter sense in which one can speak of, for example, "the Catholic faith" or "the Islamic faith." Often religious believers use the term "faith" in a different way, as the affirmation of belief without an ongoing test of evidence, and even despite evidence apparently to the contrary. Most Jews, Christians and Muslims admit that whatever particular evidence or reason they may possess that God exists and is deserving of trust, is not ultimately the basis for their believing. Thus, in this sense //faith// refers to //belief beyond evidence or logical arguments//, sometimes called "implicit faith". []==== ====Faith In times past, faith in God was considered a chivalric virtue. Many probably considered it a virtue still. Myself, I am unconvinced in the existence of God and confess that it puzzles me how others can. I //do// believe that Christianity, and most other religions, offer excellent guidelines for how to live a good life, where you will be a happy, valued and contributing member of society. Nor do I hold a religion responsible for all the ills that have been done in its name. While I don�t have faith (in God) I am an eternal optimist! I believe that if ever I was in dire straits, I could raise my hand and cry for help, and help would come. Perhaps this is faith of a sort, but in my fellow man, rather than some greater power. []==== ====__Fortitude__ Fortitude, or Strength, sometimes also called Courage, is one of the Four Cardinal Virtues of the Catholic Church. Its accompanying animal is the lion. Often, Fortitude is depicted as having tamed the ferocious lion. Cf. e.g. the Tarot trump called Strength. http://knowledgerush.com/kr/encyclopedia/Fortitude/ **Fortitude.** Having courage to resist anything which may hinder our salvation, and to bear bravely all trials for the love of God. []====

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"A privilege or right officially granted a person or a group." The right and obligation to act as a knight, laurel or pelican. In much the same way as a McDonalds franchise has rights and obligations, knights, laurels and pelicans have rights and obligations of their rank. The regalia is the most visible right of a Peer. Less visible, but more valuable, is the respect usually given to the opinion of a Peer. The obligations include a higher expected standard of behavior. The responsibility of taking on squires, apprentices or protégés. An expectation of passing on the skills and knowledge they have picked up. It is said that Peers are not made, they are recognized. In this same vein, to gain this recognition, you must already have taken on the responsibilities before you receive the benefits. []=====

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Honesty "The quality or condition of being honest: integrity, truthfulness, sincerity." Most of us are honest enough that we won't steal things that don�t belong to us. This is an important aspect of honesty. Another important aspect is when you talk about other people. If you criticize too often, you�ll be seen as being overly critical. If you praise everyone often, your praise will be like a clipped coin. The important part when discussing others is //sincerity//. Do you really believe what you�re saying, or are you saying what someone else wants you to say? [] __Hope__ **Hope** is considering something a possible situation, combined with a desire for it. It may vary from something minor to longlasting hope for something big. Christian theology considers the hope for eternal life to be a virtue because it glorifies God, and this glorification is said to be the only purpose of anything in the Universe. []=====

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Humility "Marked by meekness or modesty in behavior, attitude, or spirit; not arrogant or prideful. Showing deferential or submissive respect." Bragging and posturing are usually an attempt by a person to reassure themselves of their own ability. When people are truly confident of their ability, they no longer need to convince others of this. This is not to say that people who brag and posture lack skill - what they lack is an inner conviction in their ability. As bad in its own way as bragging and posturing, is false humility. It sometimes seems to me that people trying to appear humble are fishing for complements. [] __Justice__ **Justice** is a concept involving the fair and moral treatment of all persons, especially as regards social rules. It is often seen as the continued effort to do what is "right". Classically, justice was the ability to recognise one's debts and pay them. It was a virtue that encompassed an unwillingness to lie or steal. It was the basis for the code duello. In this view, justice is the opposite of the vice of venality. In jurisprudence, justice is the obligation that the legal system has toward the individual citizen and the society as a whole. [] **Justice.** Giving what is due to God, our neighbours, and ourselves. []===== ====Justice "The quality of being just; fairness." Justice is oft portrayed as a blindfolded lady with a sword in one hand and a set of scales in the other. The three most important elements of justice are:====
 * 1) The willingness to judge without favor or prejudice - the blindfold
 * 2) The wisdom to determine an appropriate punishment - the scales
 * 3) The ability to enforce the punishment - the sword

//must//[]

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"Liberality in bestowing gifts, especially in a lofty or condescending manner. Money or gifts bestowed. Generosity of spirit or attitude." Largesse is the coin that keeps the SCA going. If not for the millions of hours of volunteer work, the club would not be what it is. History is full of examples of largesse, and it is often associated with saints. The pilgrim dividing his cloak with a beggar. The Crown rewarding good service with land and titles. The Jew gifting armour to the errant knight. Rowena bringing civilization to the heathen� If //prowess// is that virtue most associated with knights, then //largesse// must be the virtue most associated with pelicans. If you have time, offer to help organize events. If you have a craft, donating small pieces to the King and Queen for them to distribute as their largess makes them (and you) look good. If you don�t have spare time and aren�t practicing a craft, //turn the TV off!// [] __Love/charity__ **Charity** is also the act of giving money, goods or time to such a charitable trust or other worthy cause. **Charity** is also a term in [|Christian] [|theology], i.e. loving kindness towards others; it is held to be the ultimate perfection of the human spirit, because it is said to both glorify and reflect the nature of God. In its most extreme form charity can be self-sacrificial. Charity is one conventional English translation of the Greek term //agape.// [] __Loyalty__ Loyalty "The state or quality of being loyal. A feeling or attitude of devoted attachment and affection." Support your household, your local group, officers, Baron and Baroness and Crown. Even if you don't agree with how things are done, respect the people who have the courage of taking on the mostly thankless jobs of running the SCA. They need your support - and you look better for giving it. I believe that, in period, Loyalty was the most valued knightly virtue. What use after all is prowess without loyalty? []=====

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"Courageously noble in mind and heart. Generous in forgiving; eschewing resentment or revenge; unselfish." I once asked a famous duke what he did when people wouldn�t accept his blows. He replied �I accept their decision outright. If the blow did not convince them, I should not wish that my words would.� I once asked a wise old knight what he felt about another fighter. He replied that �He wasn�t happy with the other fighter, because he had concussed his lady in a battle at a previous event. However, that was almost two years ago so he would be forgiving him shortly, as he had a policy of not holding a grudge longer than two years�. Forgive someone today! The resentment you hold against others only eats away at you and makes you bitter. If someone wrongs you, they do you a small disservice. When you lay awake at night, grinding your teeth together, replaying the event over and over in your minds eye, you do yourself a terrible injustice. []=====

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"Superior skill or ability. Superior strength, courage, or daring, especially in battle." The ability to consistently hit other people with a piece of cane, while avoiding a similar fate. []=====

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__Prudence__ The conventional meaning of **prudence** is to exercise sound judgement in practical affairs. It is considered to be a virtue and is often associated with wisdom. [] **Prudence.** This virtue enlightens our mind, and leads us to take proper and effectual means for securing our salvation. [] __Temperance__ **Temperance** is the practice of moderation. It was one of the five "cardinal" virtues held to be vital to society in Hellenic culture. [] **Temperance.** Being moderate in all things. ‘He that is temperate’, saith the wise man, ‘shall prolong life’ (Ecclus. 37:34) []===== ====Measure "Appropriate restraint; moderation." [] __Wisdom__ In its minimalist sense, **wisdom** is simply the ability and inclination to make choices that stand the sense of time. To say that a choice was wise implies that the action or inaction was strategically correct when judged by some set of values. In this sense, if a decision was, in retrospect, very smart, it was wise. []====

Sir Andrew Ward's "The Four P's of Peerage".