The oath which all this brotherhood has sworn is noble
and notable. Here are some of the main provisions:
"I swear by Apollo the Physician, and Asclepius and
Hygeia; a [Lady Health] and Panaceia [Lady All-Cure] to honor as my
parents the master who taught me this art, and to admit to my own
instruction only his sons, my own sons, and those who have been duly
inscribed as pupils, and who have taken the medical oath, and no
others. I will prescribe such treatment as may be for the benefit of
my patients, according to my best power and judgment, and preserve
them from anything hurtful or mischievous. I will never, even if
asked, administer poison, nor advise its use. I will never give a
criminal draught to a woman. I will maintain the purity and integrity
of my art. Wherever I go, I will abstain from all mischief or
corruption, or any immodest action. If ever I hear any secret I will
not divulge it. If I keep this oath, may the gods give me success in
life and in my art. If I break this oath, may all the reverse fall
upon me."[7]
William Davis, A Day in Old Athens
