42 Ideals of Ma'at: First is Virtue

The 42 Ideals of Ma'at (formerly known as the 42 Laws of Ma'at) were created by nine priestesses of the Temple of Isis in 1995, and were based on the Negative Confessions. Each week, we will be looking at one of these ideals.

I honor virtue.

Virtue is defined by the Oxford dictionary as "moral excellence; uprightness; goodness". Wordnet defines virtue as "the quality of doing what is right and avoiding what is wrong".

The values of "right" and "wrong" often vary in different cultures, different times, and even in individuals. Even doing something that is considered "wrong" can be right for that particular circumstance. Knowing the difference between "right" and "wrong" can be taught at young ages, but as we mature and develop, we must establish an internal meter for measuring moral decisions, based on our own understanding of morality and virtue.

How can we honor virtue in ourselves and others?

We honor virtue when we have made a difficult moral choice, basing our decision not on our own ego desire, but on what furthers our Higher Purpose and helps us connect more closely with the Goddess.

We honor virtue when we speak our Truth, even in the face of confrontation or derision.

We honor virtue when we develop an understanding of how people make moral decisions, based on their own level of development, and encourage them to take the next step. Lawrence Kohlberg's Stages of Moral Development is a wonderful tool in learning how morality -- and virtue -- develop.

We honor virtue when we continue to seek a life in harmony with our Higher Purpose and the Goddess.

What are some specific ways you can honor virtue?