Oath

oath ( th)
n. pl. oaths ( z, ths)
b. The words or formula of such a declaration or promise.
c. Something declared or promised.

Oath of Office for
The Delta Chi Fraternity
the Delta Chi Fraternity=
I do solemnly swear that I will perform
my duties as _____________ of the
_______________________________________
of The Delta Chi Fraternity to the best of my ability
and understanding, and that I will in all things obey
the provisions of the Constitution of the Fraternity;
and that I will, to my utmost power, strive to protect
and preserve the interests and traditions of our
beloved Fraternity.
________________________________________
(Name in Full)
________________________________________
(Date)
To me this is a practice required by all these fraternities and sororities as a pre-requisite prior to initiation.
Oaths are part of the big picture (another Greek term): Ritual: The traditional beliefs and oaths of a sorority or fraternity usually used in reference to the Ceremonies of Initiation as well as weekly chapter meetings. These traditions do not include any forms of hazing, because hazing weakens the bonds of brotherhood / sisterhood, and undermines the common experience of the fraternity or sorority.
Oath can take many forms, such as allegiance, secrecy, and membership. Secrecy is usually done keep a bond between brothers and sisters by sharing information or actions that no else knows. This secrecy can result in negative consequences by keeping hazing underground.
The pledging process often involves hazing. Hazing that is physical in nature has been reported against these organizations for decades. These cases have been settled in and out of court and in some cases not settled or solved at all. Most times the members of the orders attempt of cover up and conceal these happenings.
This hazing of the physical type could include, but is by no means limited to, punching, kicking, hitting with objects, paddling, choking, forcing to drink large quantities of alcohol and/or doing drugs, forcing unwanted sexual engagement, etc. Several pledges have died over the years due to injuries incurred while trying to join the orders.
The most under reported aspect of hazing is psychological in nature. ‘Proving yourself’ to the society by allowing the members to use and abuse you psychologically is just as wrong as allowing the members to use and abuse you physically. Unfortunately, many endure the psychological hazing because they don’t equate it with the physical hazing.
I know that I have kind of a rant on hazing, but an oath can be overall positive because it can change a person’s life by giving them values to live by.