The Hippocratic Oath

Classical Version (4th Century B.C.)

I swear by Apollo the physician and Aesculapius, and Hygeia, and Panacea, all the gods and goddesses, that according to my ability and judgement, I will keep this Oath and its stipulation-to reckon him who taught me this Art equally dear to me as my parents, to share my substance with him, and to 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 other.

I will follow that system of regimen, which, according to my ability and judgement, I will consider for the benefit of my patients, and abstain from whatever is deleterious and mischievous.

I will give no deadly medicine to anyone 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 for the benefit of the sick, and I will abstain from every voluntary act of mischief and corruption; and, further from the seduction of females or males, of freeman 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 this Art, respected by all men, in all times.

But should I trespass and violate this Oath, may the reverse be my lot.