Aes Sedai and Penances

[Dodi Kysande]

I'd been looking for a relevant thread and couldn't find one.

Is an Aes Sedai under obligation to disclose the nature of a self-imposed penance (why she is setting it and what the penance will entail) to the Amyrlin Seat, Sitter, or the Head of her Ajah? Pride of humility being a thing, it would seems at some point a Sister's actions would have to interfere with the role of the Tower, Tower Law, her Ajah's mission - especially if she is serving her penance publicly. Must the penance be agreed upon by another Sister/Mother before it begins, and if not, who can say when enough is enough?

 

[Al'Amar El'Haldir]

My assumption is that a self-imposed penance can be as senseless as the Aes Sedai herself; example Shemerin's actions after Elaida illegally demoted her to Accepted. Alviarin also reported to the Mistress of Novices without explaining the full context of why she's punishing herself ... other than "angering the Amyrlin." I don't think an Aes Sedai is under obligation to disclose or request permission from anyone for a self-imposed penance. And generally penances are more private than public. It seems that public humiliation of Aes Sedai must be done under Tower Law and its authority. No Sister may engage in any action that may undermine the standing of Aes Sedai and make them seem foolish or less than Aes Sedai in the eyes of the public.

But this is all from a personal perspective and understanding, and lacking hard evidence from authoritative sources

 

[Rhed al'Tere]

We see Moiraine thinking of wearing the too-tight and too-light dresses as a penance in New Spring. And doesn't she think of the extra long ribbons as a penance?

I agree with Al'Amar, that the Aes Sedai don't necessarily have to seek approval from anyone else for a penance, and that penances were generally private, held between the Aes Sedai serving the penance and the one who was wronged.

 

[Dodi Kysande]

Thank you! This helps.