tn_raines

Piety:

By definition Piety is the act of doing. Action in which one fulfils their duty to their god. In the case of pagans it would be their duty to honor

one god(s) and/or goddess(s). For some Piety and faith are separate things. For example it is ones responsibility to honor the gods. So whether or not

they have faith, belief or devotion they go out and do ritual and rites and prayer for the sake of action alone. It is about doing whether belief is there or not.

To go out and go through the motion, to do regardless of belief. In short to go out and do.

However to me action and faith are dependent on one another. I go out and do my prayers and rituals because I have faith in what I am doing. If I do not believe in something then I will not go out and just do, to me if I do not believe in something to go out and go through the motions is disrespectful.

Piety in ADF terms could be defined as action regardless of faith or devotion. To go out and go through the motions is enough.

I do not agree with this, to me proper respect and honoring of the gods require belief and faith. Piety to me is dependent on devotion. In short I do because I believe.

I stand in the presence of the Old Gods, and those gathered here, to take my oath on this sacred ground that I, Troy of Athens declare my dedication to my chosen path, and to honor and follow the path of my ancestors.

I bring forth offerings to Freyja, goddess of war and love. You, who called to me I am here to answer that call.

As many have done before, I give not only these gifts but myself to you and yours. I ask that you hear and accept my oath.

I gave this oath during the 2008 Three Cranes Samhain rite.