400 BC
THE OATH
by Hippocrates
Translated by Francis Adams
Electronically Enhanced Text (c) Copyright 1996, World Library(R)
THE OATH
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I SWEAR by Apollo the physician, and Aesculapius, and Health, and
All-heal, and all the gods and goddesses, that, according to my
ability and judgment, I will keep this Oath and this stipulation- to
reckon him who taught me this Art equally dear to me as my parents, to
share my substance with him, and relieve his necessities if
required; to look upon his offspring in the same footing as my own
brothers, and to teach them this art, if they shall wish to learn
it, without fee or stipulation; and that by precept, lecture, and
every other mode of instruction, I will impart a knowledge of the Art
to my own sons, and those of my teachers, and to disciples bound by
a stipulation and oath according to the law of medicine, but to none
others. I will follow that system of regimen which, according to my
ability and judgment, I consider for the benefit of my patients, and
abstain from whatever is deleterious and mischievous. I will give no
deadly medicine to any one if asked, nor suggest any such counsel; and
in like manner I will not give to a woman a pessary to produce
abortion. With purity and with holiness I will pass my life and
practice my Art. I will not cut persons laboring under the stone,
but will leave this to be done by men who are practitioners of this
work. Into whatever houses I enter, I will go into them for the
benefit of the sick, and will abstain from every voluntary act of
mischief and corruption; and, further from the seduction of females or
males, of freemen and slaves. Whatever, in connection with my
professional practice or not, in connection with it, I see or hear, in
the life of men, which ought not to be spoken of abroad, I will not
divulge, as reckoning that all such should be kept secret. While I
continue to keep this Oath unviolated, may it be granted to me to
enjoy life and the practice of the art, respected by all men, in all
times! But should I trespass and violate this Oath, may the reverse be
my lot!
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THE END
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