That saying is often mis-understood. The 'blood' refers to an oath or pledge. The 'water' refers to amniotic fluid surrounding a fetus during a pregnancy. . This, an oath sworn to an individual or group requires the oath-taker to forsake all others. (The phrase 'blood oath' is redundant.) . The familial relationship of parents or siblings -- water of the womb -- is mere happenstance, and generates significantly less voluntary association. . . I learned this distinction while working in a penitentiary. Often, and with tragic results, a family member or the entire family terminates communication and contact with a convict. Facing that level of extended isolation, an oath of allegiance to an established organization fills a natural need for (the illusion of) safety. . Convicts may be guilty of heinous crimes, but respect is appreciated... and reciprocated.
So brave.
ReplyDeleteThat saying is often mis-understood.
ReplyDeleteThe 'blood' refers to an oath or pledge.
The 'water' refers to amniotic fluid surrounding a fetus during a pregnancy.
.
This, an oath sworn to an individual or group requires the oath-taker to forsake all others.
(The phrase 'blood oath' is redundant.)
.
The familial relationship of parents or siblings -- water of the womb -- is mere happenstance, and generates significantly less voluntary association.
.
.
I learned this distinction while working in a penitentiary.
Often, and with tragic results, a family member or the entire family terminates communication and contact with a convict.
Facing that level of extended isolation, an oath of allegiance to an established organization fills a natural need for (the illusion of) safety.
.
Convicts may be guilty of heinous crimes, but respect is appreciated... and reciprocated.