Understanding the Vows and Obligations of a Sworn Brother in the Night's Watch

Merely stepping into the order of the Night's Watch or the Kingsguard is a commitment that transcends the ordinary. Those who choose to join, such as members of the Nights Watch or the Kingsguard, vow to devote their entire lives to a singular purpose: defending the realm from dark forces that threaten its peace and prosperity. This pledge often bares the mark of honor and a sacred duty, which can be sworn in various ways depending on religious beliefs or personal allegiances.

The Vow of a Sworn Brother in the Night's Watch

For members of the Nights Watch, the journey begins with a profound oath that signifies the beginning of a new life, marked by a solitary existence focused on a singular mission. The most famous and poignant statement of such an oath comes from the iconic black brothers of the Night's Watch, a corps of highly trained and dedicated members who stand guard against the horrors that lurk beyond the wall. An excerpt from the Night's Watch oath is as follows:

"Night gathers, and now my watch begins. It shall not end until my death. I shall take no wife, hold no lands, father no children. I shall wear no crowns and win no glory. I shall live and die at my post. I am the sword in the darkness. I am the watcher on the walls. I am the fire that burns against the cold, the light that brings the dawn, the horn that wakes the sleepers, the shield that guards the realms of men. I pledge my life and honor to the Night's Watch, for this night and all the nights to come."

This oath symbolizes a commitment to serve without personal ambition or familial ties, ensuring that the member's sole focus is to protect the realm from threats.

Swearing of the Oath and Locations

Those who swear to serve as part of the Night's Watch typically do so in front of a significant religious or natural landmark depending on their allegiance. Believers in the New Gods would most likely swear their vows in the Seath of the Seven (often referred to as the Sept), while followers of the Old Gods would swear on a weirwood, a special tree found in the north of the Wall.

Freely Chosen vs. Bound Duties

The swearing of this oath is not without its complexities, as it often involves the sacrifice of existing commitments, such as forsaking family ties or personal ambitions. Despite these stringent vows, historically, sworn brothers have sometimes proven to be discreet in maintaining these vows, often leading to skepticism and even pride in their personal actions. For instance, Jon Snow, a notable character from A Song of Ice and Fire, broke his vow to the Night's Watch by fathering a child with Ygritte, a wildling.
Similarly, Mance Rayder, a deserter, violated his oath by taking a wife and declaring himself King, defying the very principles of loyalty and service that the Night's Watch represents.

Status and Legacy of a Sworn Brother

The death of a sworn brother marks the end of their watch, signifying the temporarily fulfilled pledge. The other members of the Night's Watch traditionally acknowledge this by saying the following:

"And now his watch is ended."

This saying underscores the infinite and unforgiving nature of their duty, where each member's life is a testament to the eternal vigilance of those who serve the realm.

Undoubtedly, the concept of a Sworn Brother is entwined with the obsolete but revered traditions of the Night's Watch. Today, while such vows might be viewed differently, they remain a potent symbol of unwavering dedication and service, a reminder of the honored and sometimes tragic past of this storied organization.