Ethics of Sammael

Sammaelite Ethics

The ethics described below, while fitting the archetypical Sammaelite, are not followed by all Sammaelites; nor do only Sammaelites share these values. Sammaelites are generally known as sages or seekers after knowledge, and are often redeemed sinners.

Ethics

Being ethical is a social responsibility, not just a personal choice. One is morally bound to increase ethical behaviour in toto, not one's own moral worth. Ways of doing this include teaching knowledge and better decision-making skills, and also trying to redeem those that have sought the wrong paths. To truly understand evil, one must study vice as well as virtue. It is possible to fall through immersion in vice, but the salvation of others is a prize worth paying almost any price for. Our Lord Sammael walked the Dark Paths for Aeons, lost within the shrouds of vice and corruption in an attempt to save Belial, the most corrupt of the Demon Kings. If Sammael was willing to pay this price, his followers should be proud to risk lesser vices to save their fellows. And if a Demon King can be redeemed, cannot all earthly sinners?

Justice

Justice must be tempered with Mercy. Forgiveness is always possible, as is Atonement. If a victim forgives their attacker, and the attacker truely atones, what remaining punishemnt is needed? No punishment should be irreversible while the possibility of redemption remains - and it is always possible, as an article of faith. This means no maiming, killing, branding, etc. There are recidivists who refuse to learn - these should be kept away from society until they see the light, or end their time on this mortal coil. Otherwise, a sentence should concentrate on :

(a) taking responsibility for the crime, including physical compensation where possible

(b) atoning for the crime, including moral & emotional payment

(c) rehabiliation back into society

No one should be released back into society at large until these steps are completed, and they should be released as soon as these steps are completed.

Argentum Analysis

Sammaelites as viewed by a different ethical theory. Sammaelites follow two primary edicts - they seek knowledge, and they believe in redemption. While both of these are necessary elements of a rounded morality, neither is a core component. The proper forming of intentions requires the consideration of possible outcomes, which requires knowledge as a component of practical wisdom and Prudence. If and when one unavoidably sins, redemption may be required. However, the seeking of theoretical knowledge without any emphasis on its application, and the focus on redemption rather than avoiding wrongdoing through consenting only to good, is why Sammael fell amongst the demons in the first place. Sammaelites walk an uncharted path, with their metaphorical candle lighting only some parts of a path in the distance, not the ground under their feet. Those that do not seek to emphasise their virtues, and select wisely from the choices their knowledge brings, are doomed to repeat their Lord's tragedy.