The nobility are chosen by the heavens. Their word is law, and their position is sacred. To question or defy them is to defy the divine order.
The honor of the individual reflects upon the family, and the honor of the family reflects upon the entire nation. Acts of dishonor tarnish the reputation of all.
Adherence to cultural norms and traditions is paramount. Deviation is seen as rebellion and is punishable.
Unmarried women are to be protected from potential disgrace. Their actions are closely monitored to prevent any dishonor.
Once married, women have rights equal to men. They can own property, conduct business, and participate in governance.
Acts such as theft, adultery, lying, or any form of deceit bring shame to the family and are severely punished.
The government is the highest authority, above even the family. Acts that bring shame to the family are seen as direct affronts to the government.
Those who have brought shame upon their families can undergo specific rituals or acts of service to restore their honor.
It is the duty of every citizen to report acts of dishonor. Failure to report is seen as complicity and is punishable.
In matters of personal honor, individuals may engage in a duel to resolve their differences. The duel's outcome is considered the will of the heavens.
Marriages are sacred contracts between families. Breach of these contracts, such as infidelity, is seen as a grave dishonor.
Those who have committed minor transgressions can publicly apologize to restore their honor and that of their family.
Participation in national festivals is mandatory. These festivals reinforce cultural norms and national unity.
Unmarried men have more freedoms than unmarried women but are also held to higher standards of honor and responsibility.
Paying taxes is seen as a divine duty. Evasion is not only illegal but also a dishonorable act against the heavens.
Ancient sites, artifacts, and traditions are protected by law. Defiling or misusing them is a grave dishonor.
Elders are revered and respected. Disrespecting or harming an elder is a severe transgression.
The nobility have certain privileges and rights, granted by the heavens. Commoners must respect these rights.
Honest trade is encouraged. Deceptive practices in business are not only illegal but also dishonorable.
Serving in the national army or in governmental roles is seen as a high honor. Refusal to serve is a dishonorable act.
The culture of Shoing is heavily influenced by a deeply ingrained sense of honor. For the people of Shoing, maintaining personal and familial reputation is of utmost importance. An individual's honor is tied not just to their own choices and actions, but also reflects upon their entire family. At the same time, the honor of one's family is deeply connected to the prestige and respect commanded by Shoing as a nation.
This creates a complex social fabric with many unwritten rules and obligations. Shoingians must carefully consider how their decisions could impact their own reputation, their family's good name, and even the honor of their homeland. Everything from business dealings to personal relationships involves a calculus of honor, duty, and potential consequences. A serious moral misstep could irreparably damage one's hard-won social standing.
While this intricate code of honor is deeply foreign to many outsiders, within Shoing it serves as the foundation of law, tradition, and social interactions. For Shoingians, safeguarding honor is a way of life that gives meaning and purpose. Though its demands are heavy, the shared duties and rituals reinforce a sense of belonging in the community and continuity with the past. Honor provides the guiding principles that define Shoingian society.