So Much More than Respect

On the subject of Pagan ethics and morals, there is always one universal Pagan belief that, for me, stands out as being among the most significant. Presented as it is recorded in my own Grimoire, it reads:

Respect the path of a brother or sister, for all paths are sacred.

Thirteen words that carry a simple concept, yet also underlies much of that which defines a Pagan, and sets Paganism apart from many other traditional religions. The commonly understood meaning behind this doctrine, which I will henceforth refer to as the Tenet of Respect, is that each person chooses his/her religious path, and no one may rightfully interfere with, or unjustly influence, that person’s choice or study of his/her Path. A Path has intrinsic value because it is the means by which the adherent will learn, grow, and advance spiritually. This can be true even if we do not understand or approve of his/her particular path; an adherent may learn a certain lesson better from a bad example than from a good one.

While most all Pagans will profess support for the Tenet of Respect or similar philosophy, there are a small few who do not practice it well. Typically, it is due to instances where specific animosity exists between Pagans and conservative Christians. Under such circumstances, some Pagans may fail to understand that regardless of any animosity, we are still compelled to respect a Christian’s choice of religion and beliefs as with any other person.

Not only should we note the importance of what the Tenet of Respect says, but also what it does not say. Although the choice, study, and pursuit of a path are sacred, how an adherent chooses to practice that path may still be subject to question and criticism. If a practice seems contrary to a chosen path, we may feel compelled to present our concerns to the adherent (albeit in the most respectful way possible), because above anything else, “…all paths are sacred.” As well, if a practice could be clearly shown to risk harm to the adherent or others, we would certainly bear the responsibility of conveying such concerns to the adherent.

While a basic understanding of the Tenet of Respect is simple enough, a deeper, more meaningful appreciation may be gained by considering the underlying values which support and are invoked by this tenet.

Tolerance; not only for the path being chosen but also for the free expression and individuality of the adherent, even when it is not aligned with our own beliefs or with the norms of any given social group. Without that acceptance of individuality, there can be no meaningful support for the values of independence and personal freedom. I prefer to be true to myself, even at the hazard of incurring the ridicule of others, rather than to be false, and to incur my own abhorrence.
— Frederick Douglass We would be compelling an adherent to be nothing more than a social automaton and/or a slave to the status quo. As long as there is no risk of quantifiable harm to the adherent or to others, his/her choices should be limitless, else we risk giving de facto permission for others to place limits on our own individuality.

Respect; although it’s literally articulated within itself, there are specific, underlying levels of respect that lends its support to the whole. Respect such as that which we hold for each adherent as a brother or sister in humanity, and for making a personal commitment to a spiritual or philosophical pursuit. Respect for the adherent’s desire to improve oneself, or the adherent’s desire to explore an understanding of his/her place in the community, the world, or the universe. Any number of other reasons may also be relevant. It is here that we should more clearly see that a Path is not simply virtuous or honorable unto itself, but is so because it is based on virtuous and honorable motivations.

Self-Respect is also invoked. While it is somewhat implied under the subject of Respect, it also stands by itself for its inherent quality of reciprocity. In as much as we should treat others the same as we would have others treat us, so too should we diligently hold ourselves to principles to which we would encourage other adherents to hold themselves. This encourages each of us to serve as a good example but also emphasizes the concept that each of us is equally responsible for our Path, and that each of our Paths is equally worthy.

The Tenet of Respect also invokes Honesty, both internally and externally.

Internally, we should consider and examine ourselves without deception but also without pretense. We should be genuine, forthright, and perhaps even critical, in our own self-assessment. The respect we have for the path of another is an extension of the respect each of us has for our own path. Such respect is not possible if we are unwilling to see difficulties and weaknesses for what they are. Such things do not devalue a Path, they simply reveal that our journey is not yet complete. When we are able to accept own Path as a good Path, even given its problems and weaknesses, we are much more able to accept, understand, and respect the path of another.

Externally, we should present and express ourselves in a similar manner. We need not reveal specific concerns or challenges within our own paths, but we certainly should be willing to admit we have them. No respect is given if we try to present our own Paths as superior in any way. By simply admitting that each of us has lessons to learn, and that we cannot judge another for having their own lessons, we encourage others to be less fearful of being unjustly criticized or judged. Without such fear, it encourages another to be internally and externally honest regarding his/her own path.

Finally, Knowledge/Wisdom is an essential value. Not only as a functional understanding of self-improvement beneficial, but also an understanding of people, religions, philosophies, etc., as well. As we learn more about the world around us, the different cultures, societies, and people, we more easily appreciate the inevitability of different points of view and varying approaches to the challenges of life. Such learning seems to naturally lead to the understanding that there are many paths to a single destination, and no one path may be perfect for every person. Thus, such differences are not just inevitable but also a natural, healthy, and perhaps a necessary part of human evolution.

In all, adopting and practicing the Tenet of Respect creates a foundation for tolerance and understanding in all aspects of an adherent’s life, and exhibits any number of other personal philosophies that are firmly rooted in honor and virtue.

– finis