The Ten Commitments (Οι δέκα δεσμεύσεις)
-From the Meletic Scrolls.
In the pursuit of wisdom, self-awareness and enlightenment, we adhere to the ten commitments that serve as guiding principles in our philosophical journey. Unlike commandments, which imply rigid adherence and external imposition, these commitments are embraced voluntarily. They reflect our moral character, our values and our pursuit of self-improvement. By following them, we cultivate a deeper understanding of ourselves, our place in the cosmos and our relationship with others.
1. Be true always to ourselves. Never forsake our virtues to our ego. The self exemplifies our fortitude.
To be true to ourselves is to live authentically, without deception or self-betrayal. Our virtues define who we are, shaping our moral and ethical core. However, the ego often tempts us to stray from our principles in pursuit of power, validation or temporary gratification. True strength lies in resisting such temptations and upholding our virtues even when confronted with challenges. The self is fortified by the choices we make, and every decision to act with integrity reinforces our inner fortitude.
2. Be one with the cosmos and nature. We shall be one with (To Ένa) the One.
The Henosis defines the basis that guides our belief. Harmony with the cosmos and nature is not merely a poetic sentiment; it is an acknowledgment of our interconnection. We are not separate from existence, but an intrinsic part of it. To be one with To Ena, which is the original source of all things is to recognise this unity. The Henosis or the process of achieving oneness is at the heart of our philosophical practice. It is through this understanding that we cultivate respect for life, for the natural world and for the intricate balance that sustains it.
3. Be acceptive of our imperfections. We shall embrace our human nature. The body is our temple.
Perfection is an illusion, and to chase it blindly is to deny our true nature. Accepting our imperfections does not mean complacency, but realising that growth comes from acknowledging our flaws and working to improve them. The body, as our temple is not something to be shamed or rejected, but something to be nurtured and honoured. Through discipline, self-care and mindfulness, we refine both body and mind, forging a stronger connection between the two.
4. Be just to others in our judgement. We shall be just to ourselves. Justice ultimately governs our character.
Justice is more than a concept of fairness; it is a principle that governs how we interact with the world. To be just to others means to judge with wisdom, without prejudice, and with an understanding of context and circumstance. Likewise, justice must extend to oneself. We must not be overly critical or lenient in our self-assessment. A balanced sense of justice enables us to act righteously, creating trust and harmony in our relationships.
5. Be wise in our actions. We shall reap the rewards of our knowledge. Wisdom teaches us knowledge.
Knowledge alone is not enough; it must be applied with wisdom. There is a vast difference between knowing something and understanding its significance. True wisdom comes from experience, reflection and the ability to discern when and how to use knowledge. Every action carries consequences, and it is through wise decision-making that we navigate life’s complexities. Those people who act with wisdom will ultimately reap the rewards, not necessarily in material wealth, but in clarity, fulfilment and inner peace.
6. Be conscious of our capabilities. We shall build our inner strength. Abilities conduce us to good fortune.
We possess unique talents and capabilities, but without awareness and effort, we remain dormant. To be conscious of one’s capabilities is to recognise both strengths and limitations. By refining our abilities, we enhance our potentiality and shape our destiny. Inner strength is not merely physical or intellectual; it is the resilience that allows us to persevere, to adapt and to achieve greatness. Fortune does not come by chance; it is often the result of preparation meeting opportunity.
7. Be benevolent in our deeds. We shall mature as an individual. Acts of compassion display the growth in us.
Benevolence is a reflection of our character. When we act with kindness, we do more than aid others, we cultivate our own moral growth. Compassion is not weakness; rather, it is a sign of wisdom and strength. Those people who give selflessly understand the value of interconnection and the impact of their actions. Every act of benevolence is a step towards maturity, shaping us into more enlightened and empathetic individuals.
8. Be forgiving of others. We shall be forgiven then for our faults. Thinking of others causes us to seek forgiveness.
Forgiveness is an essential part of personal and philosophical growth. To forgive others is to free ourselves from resentment, which only serves to weigh us down. No person is without fault, and as we seek forgiveness for our own mistakes, we must be willing to extend the same grace to others. This is not an act of weakness, but of strength; it requires humility, empathy and a deep understanding of human nature.
9. Be patient with others. We shall obtain the fruition of our forbearance. Consideration of others allows us to connect with people.
Patience is a virtue that creates deeper connections with those around us. Impatience often leads to misunderstandings, conflicts and unnecessary suffering. When we practice patience, we create an environment of understanding and respect. The ability to endure difficulties, to listen with an open heart and to wait for the right moment strengthens our relationships. In time, patience rewards us with wisdom, harmony and the ability to navigate life’s trials with grace.
10. Be moderate in life. We shall retain the essence of our humanity. The process of life enables us to retain our equilibrium.
Moderation is the key to balance. Extremes, whether in pleasure, ambition or asceticism, can lead to chaos and discontent. To retain the essence of our humanity, we must walk the middle path, avoiding excess whilst still embracing life’s experiences. Through moderation, we maintain our equilibrium, ensuring that neither indulgence nor deprivation controls us. This approach enhances stability, clarity and a deeper appreciation for existence.
These ten commitments are the embodiment of the Meletic belief, which is a philosophical structure that encourages self-awareness, ethical living and the pursuit of wisdom. They are not rules imposed upon us, nor are they rigid doctrines. Rather, they are reflections of our intrinsic moral compass, guiding us towards a life of virtue and enlightenment.
To heed these commitments is not to adhere to dogma, but to engage in a conscious practice of self-betterment. We do not follow them out of fear or obligation. Instead, it is out of a genuine desire to cultivate wisdom, justice
and inner harmony. In embracing them, we take responsibility for our actions, shaping our reality with intentionality and integrity.
A Meletic does not submit to a higher authority in the form of a deity, but seeks unity with To Ena, who is the primordial source of all existence. However, this does not absolve us of accountability; instead, it reinforces our duty to act with reason, compassion and understanding. Before we can contribute meaningfully to the world, we must first cultivate these virtues within ourselves.
At its core, Meleticism teaches that enlightenment is not something bestowed upon us, but something we actively pursue. The practice of the logos (reason) and the nous (intellect) allows us to navigate existence with clarity. There is no need for blind submission; what we relinquish is not our free will. Instead, it is our ego. In doing so, we transcend our limitations, moving ever closer to true understanding.
Through these commitments, we embark on a journey not just of philosophical thought, but of lived experience. They serve as our ethical compass, leading us towards a life of wisdom, virtue and fulfilment.
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