The Nine Beliefs Of Character (Οι εννέα πεποιθήσεις του χαρακτήρα.)

-From the Meletic Scrolls.

In Meleticism, character is the foundation upon which a man builds his life, choices and identity. It is the fundamental essence of who we are, shaped by our actions, decisions and the wisdom we cultivate. Character is not something that is imposed upon us by external forces, nor is it dictated by the expectations of society alone. Rather, it is the culmination of our self-awareness and the virtues we embody.

To truly understand ourselves, we must first acknowledge the basic principles that define us. These principles, or beliefs, form the core of our character and our moral compass. They are not merely abstract ideals but are meant to be lived, experienced and practised. They are a testament to the conscious and intellectual awareness that Meleticism encourages. The nine beliefs of character are guiding truths that illuminate the path to enlightenment, allowing individuals to embrace their potentiality and actualise their essence.

1. The Belief in Oneself
We learn to value our essence.

To believe in oneself is to recognise one’s own worth, identity and potentiality. It is the first and most fundamental step towards self-acceptance and personal growth. Without belief in oneself, no philosophy, virtue or principle can take root. Doubt often distorts our perception of who we are and what we are capable of achieving. However, Meleticism teaches that the self is not an illusion nor a transient state, because it is an intrinsic reality that must be nurtured.

When we embrace our true essence, we begin to see life as an opportunity for growth and enlightenment. We do not need external validation to confirm our worth. It is already within us, waiting to be experienced. By believing in ourselves, we cultivate confidence, resilience and inner strength, which are qualities that allow us to navigate the complexities of life with wisdom and purpose.

2. The Belief in One’s Virtues
We learn the meaning of ethics.

Virtues are the ethical pillars that uphold our moral foundation. They are not dictated by divine commands or societal expectations alone; instead by our own conscious understanding of what is right and just. To believe in one's virtues is to acknowledge the value of ethical living, not for the sake of appearance, but as a true reflection of one's inner character.

Virtue is not a rigid doctrine but a conscious choice made in every moment. When we cultivate virtues such as temperance, wisdom, perseverance and humility, we align ourselves with the higher principles of Meleticism. Ethics should not be practised out of fear of consequence, but from a place of genuine understanding and conviction.

3. The Belief in One’s Capability
We learn to do for ourselves.

There is an innate strength in human beings that allows them to persevere and overcome adversity. This strength does not come from external forces, but from the belief in one's own capability. To recognise one’s ability to act, create and achieve is to embrace true self-reliance.

Many people seek external saviours to alleviate their struggles, yet Meleticism teaches that the power to change and grow is within us. (To Ένa) the One does not intervene, nor does it dictate our fate. It simply is To Ena, the source of all existence. It has granted us life, and it is up to us to determine how we live it. Our capability is an extension of our will, and through effort and determination, we can shape our own destiny.

4. The Belief in One’s Judgement
We learn the importance of justice.

Judgement is an essential aspect of wisdom. It allows us to discern right from wrong, truth from falsehood. To believe in one’s judgement is to trust one’s ability to make just and fair decisions. This does not mean being infallible, for mistakes are a part of the human experience. However, it does mean developing the ability to learn from those mistakes and refining our understanding of justice.

Justice in Meleticism is not merely a legal or societal construct; it is a personal responsibility. Every man must cultivate his own sense of fairness, guided by reason and virtue. A just man does not act out of impulse or selfishness, but considers the broader implications of his actions.

5. The Belief in One’s Fate
We learn to embrace our mortality.

Mortality is a reality that many people fear, yet Meleticism teaches us to embrace it as part of the natural order. To believe in one’s fate is not to resign oneself to destiny, but to accept the impermanence of life with grace and understanding.

We are all bound by time, and our existence is fleeting. This truth should not lead to despair but to appreciation. When we accept our mortality, we learn to live more fully, cherishing every moment and every experience. Instead of fearing the end, we recognise it as part of the continuous cycle of existence, allowing us to focus on what truly matters.

6. The Belief in One’s Equality
We learn to strive for our purpose.

True equality lies not in external status or superficial similarities, but in the intrinsic worth of every individual. We all share a common origin, and our purpose is not dictated by hierarchy or privilege. Instead, by the pursuit of self-actualisation.

To believe in one’s equality is to acknowledge that no soul is lesser or greater in the grand design of existence. Our differences in talent, ability or circumstance do not define our worth. What defines us is our ability to recognise our potentiality and contribute meaningfully to the world.

7. The Belief in One’s Wisdom
We learn to enhance our knowledge.

Knowledge is the key to understanding, and wisdom is the application of that knowledge in a meaningful way. To believe in one’s wisdom is to commit to lifelong learning and the pursuit of truth.

Wisdom is not about accumulating facts, but about developing insight. It requires reflection, contemplation and the ability to see beyond the surface of things. When we cultivate wisdom, we become more attuned to the realities of life and more capable of making enlightened decisions.

8. The Belief in One’s Goodness
We learn the cause for our altruism.

Altruism is not an obligation, but a natural extension of our humanity. To believe in one’s goodness is to trust that within each of us lies the capacity for compassion and kindness.

Goodness is not about seeking recognition or rewards. It is more about acting from a place of sincerity. It is through acts of kindness and generosity that we affirm our connection to others and to To Ena.

9. The Belief in One’s Noble Deeds
We learn the lessons of life.

Our actions define us. Every choice, every decision and every deed we perform contributes to our character. Noble deeds are not necessarily grand gestures, but are found in the everyday acts of integrity, honesty and kindness.

By believing in the importance of noble deeds, we recognise that life itself is a learning process. Every experience teaches us something valuable, and through reflection, we grow into better versions of ourselves.

The recognition of these Meletic beliefs not only epitomises our character, but reflects also our inner self. Philosophy is not merely an intellectual pursuit; it is a way of living. It must be applied through rational thought and conscious effort.

Belief in oneself is the foundation of all things. It is the first step on the path to enlightenment, leading us towards To Ena. When we embrace these beliefs, we embrace our potentiality, our virtue and our purpose. Life is not about waiting for divine intervention, but about realising that the power to shape our destiny lies within us.

Through Meleticism, we awaken to the truth that belief is not about submission; it is about understanding, growth and the realisation of our true essence.

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