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The concept of Oath in Christianity

In Christianity, an oath represents a serious appeal to a divine entity, serving as a confirmation of truth or promise. Jesus expanded the notion of oaths, emphasizing their significance and expanding prohibitions around them. Oaths, such as those made to the Gibeonites, were viewed as binding only if the divine's name was invoked. Various interpretations within Christianity highlight the oath's role in solemn promises, the necessity for careful use, and its moral implications, particularly in guiding faithful adherence and avoiding compromission.1
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Synonyms: Pledge, Vow, Promise, Declaration, Commitment, Assurance, Affirmation, Covenant.

In Finnish: Vala; In Swedish: Ed; In German: Eid; In Dutch: Gelofte; In Spanish: Juramento; In Malay: Bersumpah; In French: Serment

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Christian concept of 'Oath'

Christianity Books

Significance in Christianity (general):

From: A Cyclopedia of Biblical literature

(1) This refers to the solemn promise administered by Ezra to the people.[1] (2) An appeal to a divine entity, used to attest to the truth of a statement or confirm a promise, representing a religious affirmation with a sanction.[2] (3) Oaths are promises, and the alliance with the Gibeonites was confirmed by oaths, and it was deemed to be inviolable.[3]

From: A Dictionary of the Bible (Hastings)

(1) This is the action that the Nethinim joined, and the text explains that they joined in the oath that they would not allow their sons and daughters to marry any but Israelites.[4] (2) Oaths are necessary, as seen in Exodus 22:10-11, when there is no witness, and God is called upon as a witness, and the owner accepts the oath.[5]

From: Expositions of Holy Scripture

(1) Oaths are expanded by Jesus by extending the prohibitions from one kind of oath to all kinds, expanding the scope of the prohibitions related to them.[6]

From: Bible cyclopedia, critical and expository

(1) The religious group believed that oaths were not binding unless the divine's name was directly mentioned, influencing their understanding.[7]

Significance in Early Christian church and writers:
Early Christianity Books

From: Ante-nicene Fathers

(1) The oath is a vow that is written in the first book inscribed "Baruch," and it is used to compel those who are about to hear these mysteries and be initiated with the Good One to swear by the Good One.[8] (2) The oath is a factor that may lead to evil actions, and the text suggests that actions performed out of respect for the oath might be pardoned.[9] (3) Promise or commitment that a Christian is advised against taking, especially in contexts that may compromise their faith.[10] (4) A solemn promise made by the old man, signifying the seriousness and resolve of his decision regarding hospitality.[11]

Early Christianity (also known as Early Church) refers to the period starting roughly in the 6th century BC up until 325 A.D. during which year the first council of Nicaea was convened. Popular literature includes the writings by the early Church Fathers which forms the basis of later Christian theology.

Significance in Global Christian community:
Catholic Church Books

From: The city of God

(1) The oath is what God swore by Himself, and it is a confirmation of the promise, and a certain reproof to the unbelieving, and it is also a well.[12]

From: Summa Theologica (English translation)

(1) These are declarations that should not be taken in temporal matters, except in cases of serious need, or for trifling reasons, indicating the need for careful consideration.[13]

The Catholic Church is a global Christian community with over a billion members, rooted in the teachings of Jesus Christ. It is led by the Pope and emphasizes the sacraments, particularly the Eucharist. Catholicism is a denomination centered on the teachings thereof. It has a rich theological and cultural heritage.

Significance in Church of the East (or the East Syriac Church):
Church of the East Books

From: The Book of the Cave of Treasures

(1) The solemn promises made by the fathers of the children of Seth, which they were instructed to remember and uphold, as described in the text.[14]

The Church of the East emerged in the 5th century and separated from the Roman Empire's state church by adopting Nestorianism. It emphasizes the distinct human and divine natures of Jesus Christ. It is also called the Assyrian Church, Nestorian Church or the East Syriac Church.

Gnostic concept of 'Oath'

Gnosticism Books

Significance in Gnosticism (Mystical or Esoteric Christianity):

From: The Gnostics and Their Remains

(1) This is established by holy Michael, and it is the power of the oath, for powerful is it and strong, and the secrets of the oath are confirmed by it.[15]

Plural form: Oaths.