Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Context:An oath is a solemn promise or declaration, often invoking a divine witness, regarding one's future action or behavior. In biblical times, oaths were considered binding and sacred, with significant spiritual and social implications. The act of swearing an oath was not taken lightly, as it involved invoking the name of God as a witness to the truth of one's words or the sincerity of one's intentions. Biblical Example: Shimei's Oath Shimei, a member of the tribe of Benjamin, is a notable figure in the context of oaths in the Bible. His account is primarily found in the books of 2 Samuel and 1 Kings. Shimei is first introduced during the reign of King David. When David's son Absalom rebelled against him, Shimei cursed David as he fled Jerusalem (2 Samuel 16:5-13). However, after Absalom's defeat, Shimei sought David's forgiveness and swore an oath of loyalty to him (2 Samuel 19:18-23). Later, during the reign of Solomon, Shimei's adherence to his oath is tested. Solomon, David's son and successor, instructed Shimei to build a house in Jerusalem and not to leave the city, warning him that crossing the Kidron Valley would result in his death. Shimei agreed to this condition, swearing an oath to abide by Solomon's command (1 Kings 2:36-38). Violation of the Oath: Despite his promise, Shimei eventually broke his oath. After three years, two of Shimei's servants ran away to Gath, and Shimei left Jerusalem to retrieve them. Upon his return, Solomon confronted Shimei about his broken oath. Solomon reminded Shimei of the solemn promise he had made and the consequences of violating it. As a result of his disobedience, Solomon ordered Shimei's execution, fulfilling the warning given to him (1 Kings 2:39-46). Theological Implications: Shimei's account underscores the seriousness with which oaths were regarded in biblical times. His failure to keep his oath to Solomon highlights the expectation of faithfulness and integrity in one's promises, especially when made before God. The narrative serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of breaking an oath, emphasizing the importance of truthfulness and accountability. Related Biblical Teachings: The Bible contains numerous teachings on the nature and importance of oaths. In the Old Testament, the Law of Moses provided guidelines for making and fulfilling vows (Numbers 30:2). The Psalms and Proverbs also reflect on the significance of keeping one's word (Psalm 15:4; Proverbs 20:25). In the New Testament, Jesus addresses the issue of oaths in the Sermon on the Mount, advising against swearing oaths altogether and encouraging simple honesty: "But let your 'Yes' be 'Yes,' and your 'No,' 'No.' For whatever is more than these is from the evil one" (Matthew 5:37). This teaching emphasizes the value of integrity and the sufficiency of straightforward truthfulness in the life of a believer. Conclusion: The account of Shimei and his oath serves as a powerful reminder of the weight of our words and the spiritual responsibility that accompanies making promises, especially those made before God. The biblical narrative encourages believers to uphold truth and integrity in all their commitments, reflecting the character of God in their lives. Nave's Topical Index 1 Kings 2:42And the king sent and called for Shimei, and said to him, Did I not make you to swear by the LORD, and protested to you, saying, Know for a certain, on the day you go out, and walk abroad any where, that you shall surely die? and you said to me, The word that I have heard is good. Nave's Topical Index Library Book 5 Footnotes Ittai of Gath The Ninth Commandment Concerning Persecution The Snare of the Fowler Dilemma and Deliverance The Life and Death of Mr. Badman, The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus A Treatise of the Fear of God; Come and Welcome to Jesus Christ; Resources What is Free Masonry and what do Free Masons believe? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the Order of DeMolay? | GotQuestions.org Who were the Gibeonites? | GotQuestions.org Oath: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Oath used in Solemnizing Covenants: Between Abraham and Abimelech Oath used in Solemnizing Covenants: Between Abraham and the King of Sodom Oath used in Solemnizing Covenants: Between Isaac and Abimelech Oath: Abraham Requires Oath of his Servant Eliezer Oath: David Swears not to Eat Until the Sun Goes Down Oath: David Swears to Bath-Sheba That Solomon Will be King Oath: Elisha Seals his Vow to Follow Elijah By Oath: Esau Confirms the Sale of his Birthright By Oath: Ezra Requires, of the Priests and Levites Oath: Gedaliah Confirms his Word By Oath: Gehazi Confirms his Lie By Oath: Jacob Confirms the Covenant Between Him and Laban By Oath: Jehoida Requires an Oath from the Rulers Oath: Joab Confirms his Word By Oath: Jonathan and David Confirm a Covenant By Oath: Joseph Requires a Similar Oath Oath: King of Samaria Confirms his Word With An Oath: Moses Covenants With Caleb By Oath: Peter Confirms his Denial of Jesus By Oath: Rahab Requires an Oath from the Spies Oath: Requires Joseph to Swear That he Would Bury Him With his Forefathers Oath: Saul Swears to the Witch of En-Dor Oath: Solomon Confirms his Word By Oath: The Elders of Gilead Confirm Their Pledge to Jephthah By Oath: The Israelites Confirm the Covenant With the Hivites Oath: The Israelites Swear in Mizpeh Oath: Unclassified Scriptures Relating To Oath: Zedekiah Swears to Jeremiah Related Terms |
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