The Stranniki (Russian for Runaways or Wanderers) are the strong Pomorsky Old Believers who rejected prayers for Tsar Peter and all government papers (identification, passports, money, etc). They would not wear clothing contrary to Old Orthodox Russia, nor eat with those of contrary Faith and Practice. Keeping themselves separate from the antichrist society they went far into the Siberian wilderness. This blog is about these people and my effort to conform my life to theirs.

Wednesday, November 26, 2008

Refusing to Serve in the Army or in Court

In an online article about The Culture of Old Believers of Baltic States, in the section called The Old Believers in the Society of the Grand Duchy, it explains how the Old Believers refused to serve in the army or in court. I know personally that one of the first reasons why Old Believers are not to join the army or serve in court is due to the taking of an oath, which Christ forbids in the Holy Gospels. One such reference is the commandment to "Swear not at all" Matthew 5:34.