The Oath of a Paladin, particularly for those dedicated to a strict form of justice, is characterized by a pragmatic approach to combating evil, where the pursuit of righteousness may involve making difficult choices. This particular oath, often embraced by Lawful Neutral or Neutral individuals, centers on four core tenets that guide their actions against wickedness.
The Philosophy Behind This Oath
Paladins who undertake this specific oath are typically Lawful Neutral or Neutral, reflecting a dedication to justice above conventional morality or personal purity. Their core philosophy involves a willingness to forsake their own righteousness to effectively mete out justice upon those who do evil. This allows them the flexibility to employ "any means necessary" to achieve their objective of eradicating significant evil, prioritizing the outcome of justice over the method.
Core Tenets of the Oath
This powerful oath is built upon four fundamental tenets that dictate the paladin's actions and moral compass:
| Tenet | Description |
|---|---|
| Fight the Greater Evil | The primary directive is to confront and eliminate the most significant threats and widespread evils. This often means focusing efforts on larger, more impactful dangers, even if it requires difficult or morally ambiguous choices. |
| No Mercy for the Wicked | Those who commit evil acts are deemed unworthy of compassion. This tenet demands a relentless pursuit and ultimate eradication of malevolent forces, leaving no room for leniency or rehabilitation for the truly corrupt. |
| By Any Means Necessary | To achieve justice and defeat evil, paladins bound by this oath are prepared to utilize a wide range of tactics. This can include methods that might be considered extreme or morally questionable by others, provided they lead directly to the desired just outcome. |
| Restitution | There is a strong emphasis on ensuring that justice is served and that the balance is restored after evil has been confronted. This can involve ensuring that those who have been wronged receive compensation or that order is re-established. |
Practical Implications for the Paladin
- Strategic Focus: These paladins prioritize confronting the most impactful evil threats, rather than becoming entangled in minor infractions.
- Unwavering Resolve: They are characterized by their steadfast determination and lack of hesitation when confronting and dispatching evil-doers.
- Tactical Flexibility: Unlike some paladins who adhere to strict codes of honor in combat, those under this oath value effectiveness and results, often employing unconventional or ruthless tactics against wickedness.
- Restorative Justice: A key aspect of their work involves not just defeating evil, but also ensuring that its consequences are addressed, whether through compensation for victims or the restoration of order.
