Virtue

   Virtue


 Virtue means "moral excellency."   Virtue is, at it's core, the opposite of sin, or more specifically, vice is the opposite of virtue. Which means to err. There is many deeds tied into virtue, and virtue is always right. Whether it be virtues tied into some sort of honor code, or ones such as forgiveness and honesty, they fit perfectly into a person's life, making a person's life more fruitful. Adhere to the precepts of virtue, and you will succeed and further your enlightenment.


 The 7 Contrary Virtues


 The seven virtues are the opposite of the seven deadly sins (greed, lust, pride, wrath, envy, sloth, and gluttony.) Liberality, chastity, humility, patience, kindness, diligence, abstinence are the seven virtues, conflicting against each of the deadly sins. To understand the seven virtues ("The Seven Contrary Virtues") and virtue itself.


  Philosophical Cores: Virtue


  To every wise philosopher, morality and virtue ruled above all.  That true pleasure comes from virtue and doing what is right. I will by speak of the thoughts and ideas of ancient philosophers,  for they are fools. We have studied good conduct and precepts in the past, and we can already associate equanimity, love, sympathetic joy, and compassion with those who gained enlightenment, and it is needless to say that those who practice those four qualities will be of virtuous nature.


   The secret to live a moral life, and thus one of virtue is to constantly practice good, or be benevolent. No true enjoyment comes from doing evil deeds, as evil is a product of our mind, that comes from desires, and leads to suffering.  This suffering will only disappear when one comes back to the eightfold path. (The eightfold path wad discussed in earlier articles on this blog. Please feel free to read.)



   Virtue is not something that wavers or disappears. It is something that must be constant. It is true to say every truly enlightened man and woman all are good, and virtuous. There is no exception to the rule. You are either bowing to virtue or vice.



  In my years, I have had a share of them both, and I will tell you this. Virtue empowers, and vice enslaves. There is no better thing to do than pursue spiritual life, and virtue is a big part of being spiritual. It takes awhile for a man or woman to become virtuous. Practice and meditate continually on benevolence, and you will rise like an eagle in the sky, and be free from this broken world and all it's suffering.

  Codes Of The Past


   All ancient orders contained some sort of honor code, including many virtues that must be practiced. From the druids, to the samurais, the templars, to pagans, monks, and also just about every religion you can name. I will discuss one that I find most interesting.

   The Bushido code was a code of conduct that most or all samurai would follow in feudal Japan. The Bushido code consisted of the precepts of Integrity, Respect, Courage, Honor, Compassion, Honesty, and Loyalty. These all go hand-in-hand, and are the true embodiment of the noble swordsman, the samurai. Each one had deep conviction, and to believe that these men were merely weapons of destruction and death would be an illusion. They were everything good during the feudal era of Japan.



  Conclusion


   Virtue is moral backbone. It is highly needed in every person. Virtue safeguards against both corruption and suffering. Pain is merely an illusion, and it is caused by living a corrupt an negative life path. I know everyone is capable of being enlightened, and ultimately happy. Take control of your life today, and be virtuous.