Swearing-in ceremonies (5)
I believe the answer is:
oaths
'swearing-in ceremonies' is the definition.
(I've seen this in another clue)
This is all the clue.
(Other definitions for oaths that I've seen before include "Curses - words of honour?" , "Solemn promises or curses" , "Solemn sworn promises" , "Imprecations" , "truths may be established by them" .)