Swearing of Oath
Drawing dirk the oath taker sinks to one knee before the clan Chief or laird, holding the dirk upright by the blade. A sword, axe, sgian dhu, or other sharp steel can also be used. While proclaiming:
"I swear by the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, and by the holy iron that I hold, to give ye fealty and pledge ye my loyalty to the name of the clan MacLeod (or correct clan name). If ever my hand shall be raised against ye in rebellion, I ask that this holy iron shall pierce my heart."
The oath taker then lowers the dirk kissing it at the juncture of haft and tang before sheathing his dirk, still kneeling he offers both hands clasped to the laird. The laird takes the clasped hands between his own and lifts them to his own lips in acceptance of the offered oath before raising the man to his feet. The laird then lifts a quaich or cup filled with spirits to his lips and drinks from it before handing it to the oath swearing man who then drinks and returns the cup. Giving a final bow to the laird, the oath taker then steps to the side.
Swearing of Friendship
Kneeling before the laird and bows deeply, instead of drawing a knife he rises to his feet looking the laird in the fact hands at sides proclaiming:
"John Smith, (or name of clan laird, or chief) I come to you as kinsmen and as ally. I give ye no vow, for my oath is pledged to the name I bear. But I give ye freely the things that I have; my help and my goodwill, wherever ye should find need of them. I give ye my obedience, as kinsman and as laird, and I hold myself bound by your word, so long as my feet rest on the lands of clan MacLeod (or correct clan name)."
Clan laird holds out his hands palm up, the oath taker placing his hands lightly on the laird's palms as the laird says:
"We are honored by your offer of friendship and good will. We accept your obedience and hold you in good faith as an ally of the clan MacKenzie (or correct clan name)."
The laird then lifts a quaich or cup filled with spirits to his lips and drinks from it before handing it to the oath swearing man who then drinks and returns the cup. Giving a final bow to the laird, the oath taker then steps to the side.