The Power of Honor

One has to ask is the power of honor driven by corruptible greed or is it a moral process that was developed in the past and can still be applied to modern standards and values? The answer is often hard to figure out but worthwhile looking into as this word has been misused for centuries and not quite understood. 

Because honor has been often misplaced or abused it is denounced in some societies and looked upon as a dreaded custom that must not be given the considerations implied. Considerations that are implied and often imagined yet not really earned. Honor does not come without criticism and to some degree judgment of character, influence and respect. 

It is usually based on rational or courageous behaviors or in many cases acting out on the presence of informally structured morality laws or today’s formally written statutory laws. Some refer to honor as an ingredient for religious purposes as it casts a shadow on the principles contained within the Bible and other holy scriptures. Certainly there are direct correlations to various religions as the word honor has been used to describe behaviors since the beginning of time. 

One could argue the opposite of attaining honor is to be shameful. Hence there are certain qualities attached to the word that may lose translation or definition as cultures changes and influences customs and practices. The level of acceptance within the moral compass of individuals falls within a sphere of morality and values contained within such a circle of life. 

A good example of such travesty in the translation are “honor killings” which some accept as a way of life and others condemn and call it murder. The simple notion, for instance, that violence against defenseless women cannot be regarded as honorable yet in some societies this is acceptable. Regardless, it appears the power of honor has played a significant role in cultures and history of moral revelations and revolutions of the past and today. 

The use of violence against enemies and formidable foes creates situations that are considered honorable and reminds us that violence, although scary and tyrannical in nature, is a tool of enforcement to prevent homicides and other felonious violations of the laws. 

As time evolved this process the state [government] became stronger and at one point justifies the use of force as an honorable act while all the while, they keep society from having its say. Under those conditions, honor has been transformed into a source of empowerment that is carried under the banner of honor.