King Arthur: 9 Virtues of the Medieval Knights

courage

more than bravado or bluster

a knight must have the courage of heart

to fight battles which are difficult

tiresome or unglamorous

and to graciously accept the sacrifices

involved

anything that gives light

must endure burning

strength

a knight has his own god-given strengths

these must be developed daily

for a night will gain more from working

on his strengths

than he will from trying to improve his

weaknesses

the strong knight is aware of his

weaknesses and works to develop his

strengths

temperance

everything is permissible but not

everything is beneficial

the temperate knight knows to abstain

from some things and holds all things in

moderation

by restraint and control

the knight makes for himself an island

which no flood can overwhelm

humility

not every battle can be won

in losing battles the failing knight

learns humility

and the practical skills needed to win

subsequent fights to come

the humble knight knows when to retreat

to be restored

patience

a hurried mind is an adult mind

it cannot see clearly or hear correctly

the patient knight is willing to wait

and make time his ally

there is a moment for action

and with a clear mind that moment is

obvious

mercy

words and attitudes are dangerous

weapons

a wound inflicted by an arrow heals

but a wound inflicted by harsh words

settles in the heart

the merciful knight thus exercises

compassion in his dealings with others

generosity

a night's treasure is not his own

it is his to grow and give away at the

right time and in the right way

for a true knight earns all they can

saves all they can

and gives away all they can

to a true night

wealth is only a resource

it is a tool to accomplish good and to

fuel the working hand of god in his

community cause

and purpose in life

nobility

low-minded men are occupied solely with

appearances

but the noble-minded knight upholds his

convictions at all times

especially when no one else is watching

a night's nobility

brings him honor

hope

in the hour of adversity

the good night is not without hope for

he knows dark nights are followed by

bright days

so times of bitter hardship are followed

by seasons of sweet prosperity

hope is ever present in the night's

positive outlook and cheerful demeanor

courage

strength

temperance

humility

patience

mercy

generosity

nobility

hope