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The Rede/The Law of Returns

Of all the differences that a Wiccan has with Druidism this is probably the most prevalent. In Druidism, there is no "rede". In fact, the only people that the Rede pertains to are those who ascribe to it, it is unique to Wiccans and some kinds of Witchcraft.

Most Wiccans profess some version of the familiar "an it harm none, do as you will" or another. They are truly shocked, confused and/or even irate when the Druid goes "That's nice." and disagrees that this moral guideline has anything to do with them. Some may even accuse the Druid of lacking morals.

Nothing could be further from the truth. In fact, the moral concepts within The Law of Returns and the Rede, when boiled out of their archaic language, permeate Druidism. Normally Druids call this the Celtic Virtues. Generally these virtues are described as Honor, Loyalty, Hospitality, Honesty, Justice and Courage. These six principals permeate the entire body of Druidic thought and ritual.

Briefly stated the virtue of Honor requires one to adhere to their oaths and do the right thing, even if it will ultimately hurt others or oneself in the process. A Druid is obligated to remain true to friends, family and leaders thus exhibiting the virtue of Loyalty. Hospitality demands that a Druid be a good host when guests are under one's roof. Honesty insists that one tell the truth the whole truth and nothing but the truth to yourself, your gods and your people. Justice desires the Druid understands everyone has an inherent worth and that an assault to that worth demands recompense in one form or another. Courage for the Druid does not always wear a public face; it is standing-strong-in-the-face-of-adversity, alone or with companions. Sometimes Courage is getting up and going about a daily routine when pain has worn one down without complaint or demur.

By Daven (Ord Draiochta na Uisnech; http://www.irishdruidry.org/ )
© 2003 Daven, all rights reserved.
Permission is given to freely distribute this unaltered in print form, websites and email newsletters whatsoever, so long as this copyright statement and author biography remains intact. Redistributing it in a print medium for profit is prohibited without the expressed written consent of the author. Please contact the author at [url]daven@davensjournal.com[/url]