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Mnhei'sahe
From ATS Wiki
Mnhei'sahe is a concept that is unique to the Rihannsu. Many times attempts have been made to translate the word, usually coming out as something like 'honour', or a literal translation of the elements making up the word, that is 'Ruling Passion'. However, both of these are sadly lacking, and carry little if any of the depth of meaning that the word brings up in the mind of a Rihanha. Mnhei'sahe is vastly more than a code of conduct, infinitely more than simple 'honour'; it is both of those, and still more: mnhei'sahe is, indeed, what makes a Rihanha, a Rihanha.
Mnhei'sahe covers a wide range of human concepts: honour, loyalty, the Confucian concept of filial piety, among others. Yet, to humans it may seem at times self-contradictory, as sometimes mnhei'sahe requires duplicity or other such behaviour that humans might consider 'dishonourable'. Further, there are examples often given that only serve to confuse humans even more - those oft-cited cliches: "Mnhei'sahe may require you to give the last of your water to your greatest enemy, or that you kill your dearest friend." Though both of these may be true, these statements generally serve to confuse the issue when attempting to explain this concept that is so integral to the Romulan world view.
(The above text is the first section of the essay on mnhei'sahe found here[1] and is used with permission. Please visit that link for the full essay)
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