The Nine Noble Virtues

The Nine Noble Virtues

The Nine Noble Virtues (or Truths) are a guideline to how you should live your life. They are in no way “commandments” but suggestions.

Courage- The first of the Noble Nine is courage, and it isn't just in battle, but also in daily life. Not only to bravely go to war but also to face the difficulties and struggles of daily life. Courage can indicate standing up for what you believe in, maybe even fighting for it. You could also stand up for somebody weaker than you who is being bullied. Doing what you believe is the proper thing to do, or refusing to do what you think is wrong.
People understand that you can be brave physically, but what some people don't understand is that being courageous doesn't mean you're scared or fearful. It also doesn't mean that you should be stupid.


Truth- Not only telling the truth, but also being true to oneself. This often means accepting who we are and what we want in life, even if it goes against popular opinion. Truth often takes courage.
Following truth means not telling lies. This may mean avoiding doing things you're uncomfortable admitting to, don't make excuses for doing things you know are wrong.


Honour- There are many different ways to be honourable, one of them is to follow the Nine Noble Virtues, others are providing for family and accomplishing goals. The qualities described by the Nine Noble Virtues would make others honour you, and more importantly you will honour yourself.
A basic meaning of honour is respect. You practice it by respecting other's rights and beliefs and by keeping your word. It means treating people the way you would like to be treated, but also standing up when they do you wrong. Keeping your word might mean thinking before you make a promise; if you aren't sure if you'll be able to do something, say that you'll try but don't say you definitely will. When you say you'll do something, do it. It isn't honourable to say you'll do something then not follow through.


Fidelity- Not only to a spouse or partner but also oneself, beliefs and convictions. Fidelity leads to honour. Being faithful or loyal to a person, group, idea and even the laws of your local area. Support what you believe is right, help the people you've given your loyalty to, but don't do anything you believe is wrong to help them.


Discipline- Self-discipline shows self respect, fidelity and honour. You must also have courage and be truthful to be disciplined. Discipline may indicate some type of discomfort or unpleasantness, but it's done for something better. You choose to make the changes to better yourself or your life.
Hospitality- Extending house and home to friends and family. To the Norse, it meant opening your home to travelers with the same kindness and respect as you'd give your family. Though these days it isn't particularly safe to invite people you don't know into your home, you can still treat them courteously. Hospitality also includes helping friends, family and neighbours.


Industriousness- Working to accomplish something. Doing your best when working on a job, and try to do it right. Also includes the time you're not working. There has to be a balance of the two. In order to do your job, you need to relax during your time off. Do something completely and with all of your heart. Do what you think is more worth your time. There is no right answer except what is right for you.


Self-reliance- Self-reliance is being responsible for the things you need. Taking the blame when you do something wrong, and not continuously living off of somebody else's wealth. Do things you need to do without reminder. Do what you can for yourself without complaining. All in all it means not depending on other people if you can help it.


Perseverance- Fairly self-explanatory. Keep working until you finish something not doing something half way. Even if things get rough or seem to be going nowhere, keep on working towards your goal.