Morality and ethical behavior are essential components of Bessus Nouiogalation (BNG). While ritual, devotion, and cosmology shape our outward practice, it is our behavior and character that demonstrate the depth of our commitment. Within BNG, we honor both the Three Druid Laws (Trirextoues) and the cultivation of virtue (Îanoi) as a dual foundation for ethical and spiritual living.
The Three Laws (Trirextoues)
These are the only moral precepts clearly attributed to the Druids in antiquity. They are simple, powerful, and timeless.
1. To Honor the Gods
Gaulish: Dugion Dēuūs
This law teaches us to live with gratitude and respect toward the Dêuoi (Gods) and all divine beings. In BNG, this includes maintaining Cantos Roti, the Gifting Cycle, in which we engage in reciprocal relationships through offering, praise, and ethical living. Honoring the Gods is not only a ritual act — it’s a way of aligning with the sacred and recognizing the divine in all things.
2. To Do No Misdeed
Gaulish: Ne Urextus Volson
This law calls us to act with integrity and care — to do no harm to others, ourselves, or the spirits. It applies not just to humans but also to the Regentiâ (Ancestors), Bituatîs (Land Spirits), and Tegatis (House Spirits). It fosters Sumatreiâ — good relationship — with all beings, seen and unseen.
3. To Practice Virtue
Gaulish: Etic Deluātus Nertūs
Virtue is not about outward appearances — it is the cultivation of strength and character from within. Rooted in the Gaulish concept of nertūs (power, vigor, virtue), this law encourages courage, wisdom, and self-discipline. Whether in solitude or in public, a Galatis strives to align their being with the sacred order of the cosmos.
The Virtues of BNG (Îanoi)
BNG expands upon the Trirextoues with a set of twelve core virtues, grouped into three sets of four, each connected to one of the Three Laws. These are not commandments, but guiding principles — living tools to shape one’s soul (anatiâ) and life. You can read more about our Îanoi HERE.
BNG Virtues:
- Dêuocariâ – Piety
Reverence and love for the Gods, shown through devotion, ritual, and relationship. - Luxtiâ – Duty
A sense of responsibility toward others, one’s roles, and sacred obligations. - Uissus – Wisdom / Knowledge
Pursuit of truth through study, experience, and discernment. - Îanolabâ – Right Speech
Speaking with clarity and integrity. Avoiding gossip or harm through words. - Doniocariâ – Compassion
Kindness in action. Feeling with others and responding with care. - Oigetocâriâ – Hospitality
Welcoming others as sacred guests. Sharing space, food, and safety. - Raton – Generosity
Giving freely of time, blessings, and resources. - Uiridios – Truth
Living with honesty and sincerity in all actions and relationships. - Decos – Honor
Acting with dignity, keeping one’s word, and cultivating personal worth. - Uîrolaniâ – Justice
Fairness, equity, and protection of those in need. - Galâ – Bravery
Standing firm in difficulty, speaking truth, and facing life with courage. - Ûxelliâ – Pride
Healthy pride in your path, your people, and your values — without arrogance.
These virtues are not static rules, but part of an ongoing practice of self-formation — ways to shape your soul into something worthy of the Dêuoi and future generations. In BNG, morality is not a list of dos and don’ts, but a living relationship with the sacred through thoughtful action, reverence, and personal excellence.
Tegobessus and Your Virtues
The BNG virtues are central to our Touta’s shared practice — all members are encouraged to learn them by heart, as they influence how we relate to the Dêuoi, the Regentiâ, the Bituatîs, and each other. They are the ethical roots that nourish the collective. But your Tegobessus (House Custom) is a deeply personal expression of this tradition. Whether you add to and adopt the full BNG virtue set, build your own, or rely solely on the Trirextoues, what matters most is that you live with intention. Let your values live in your words, actions, and choices. Let them guide who you are becoming — and who you are offering to the world.