Χαιρετισμός & Όρκος

The salutation (heretismos - xαιρετισμός) should be performed, simultaneously with the “Pammachon Oath” (2.b below),  at the beginning  and end of class.  The heretismos should also be performed at the beginning of a Pankration (Παγκράτιον) match and at the end.

The hairetismos consists of the following on the part of the Πάμμαχος:

1. Stand with feet shoulder width apart and the arms loosely at the side
2. Make a fist with the right hand
3. Raise the right fist to the center of the chest vertically in front of the heart.
4. Open the fist to an open palm.
5. Perform 3 and 4 while repeating the “Pankration Oath” (Orkos) from 2.b. below – only necessary at the beginning and end of class

The significance of steps 2 & 3. are the following:

a.       The closed fist represents the martial skills of the Pammachos

b.      Placing the fist over the heart symbolizes that the martial skills of the Pammachos will only used in protection of humanity.

c.       Opening the fist to a palm over the heart represents the fact that violence can fade to the force of good will 

An example of a youth performing the heretismos can be seen at the  following link:

video forthcoming

τιμή καί ἀρετή             (teemee ke aretee)      

expounded in english:

       Positive Value  to society

       Personal Excellence  in body, emotion, mind and spirit