SPICES
The word testimony describes the way that Friends testify or bear witness to their beliefs in their everyday life. A testimony is therefore not a belief in itself, rather it is committed action arising out of Friends’ experience.
The Quaker Testimonies, as generally recognised globally in the 21st century, are as follows:
- Simplicity
- Peace
- Integrity
- Community
- Equality
- Stewardship / Sustainability
As you might have seen, listed in this way the Quaker Testimonies make the acronym SPICES.
By having SPICES as part of their everyday existence, Quakers often say they lead a more fulfilled life.
Simplicity
Quakers are concerned about the excesses and unfairness of our consumer society, and the unsustainable use of natural resources.
We try to live simply and to give space for the things that really matter to us.
This includes the people around us, the natural world and our experience of God.
Peace
Perhaps Quakers are best known for our peace testimony.
This derives from our conviction that love is at the heart of existence and that we must live in a way that reflects this.
It has led many Quakers to refuse military service, and to become involved in a wide range of peace activities.
We seek alternatives to violence at all levels from personal to international.
Integrity
Quakers try to live according to the deepest truth we know, which is Love.
This means speaking the truth to all, including people in positions of power.
Integrity is the guiding principle we set for ourselves, both in private and public life.
Community
Quakers recognise the equal worth and unique nature of every person.
We actively work to change the systems that cause injustice and hinder true community.
We also work to help people who are suffering from injustice, such as prisoners and asylum seekers.
Equality
Equality is the acceptance that everyone is equal and every person has the right to be respected.
Quakers reject discrimination in all its forms.
The Equality testimony is about acceptance regardless of religion, race, nationality, gender, sexuality, age, ability, and disability.
Sustainability / Stewardship
"We do not own the world, and its riches are not ours to dispose of at will.
Show a loving consideration for all creatures, and seek to maintain the beauty and variety of the world.
Work to ensure that our increasing power over nature is used responsibly, with reverence for life.
Rejoice in the splendour of God’s continuing creation."