Item 1 in Nine Noble Virtues
Courage
Act despite fear when action is justified and necessary.
- Position
- 1
- Form
- Virtue to cultivate
- Obligation
- Aspirational
- Wording status
- Editorial paraphrase
- Intended audience
- Some modern Heathen, Odinist and Ásatrú communities
- Last reviewed
- 28 June 2026
Names and terminology
Canonical name: Courage
Source wording
Editorial paraphrase: Act despite fear when action is justified and necessary.
Literal meaning
Act despite fear when action is justified and necessary.
Broader interpretation
This item should be interpreted within the historical purpose, intended audience and wider structure of its parent ethical framework.
Historical context
This item belongs to Nine Noble Virtues. Twentieth century, especially the 1970s; Modern British and transatlantic Heathenry.
Practical meaning
Practical application requires attention to intention, consent, evidence, rights, foreseeable effects and the needs of all persons or beings affected.
Ethical purpose
To shape conduct, judgment or character in a way consistent with the wider framework.
Exceptions and disputes
Courage is not good when used in service of cruelty, domination or reckless risk.
Variations across schools or traditions
Wording and interpretation may vary between translations, denominations, schools and historical periods.
Modern application
Modern application should distinguish the historical formulation from present legal, social and ethical conditions.
Criticism and difficult cases
Courage is not good when used in service of cruelty, domination or reckless risk.
Truth By Reason analysis
Truth By Reason assesses this principle through evidence, intentions, rights, foreseeable consequences, consistency and the treatment of all affected beings.
Ethical themes
Sources
- The Nine Noble Virtues Commentary / interpretation