The term "vowedst" is an archaic form of the verb "vow," which appears in various translations of the Bible, particularly those that retain older English language forms. In the context of Scripture, a vow is a solemn promise made to God, often involving a commitment to perform a specific act, offer a sacrifice, or dedicate oneself or something to the Lord. Vows are significant in biblical narratives and laws, reflecting a deep sense of devotion and accountability to God.

Biblical Context and Usage

In the Old Testament, vows are frequently mentioned, and the act of making a vow is taken very seriously. The Hebrew word for vow, "neder," signifies a binding promise or pledge. The Israelites were instructed to fulfill their vows to the Lord without delay, as failing to do so was considered a sin.

One of the key passages regarding vows is found in the Book of Numbers, where specific regulations are given:

· Numbers 30:2 : "If a man makes a vow to the LORD or swears an oath to bind himself with a pledge, he must not break his word; he must do everything he has promised."

This verse underscores the importance of integrity and faithfulness in keeping one's word to God. The seriousness of vows is further emphasized in Deuteronomy:

· Deuteronomy 23:21-23 : "If you make a vow to the LORD your God, do not be slow to keep it, because He will surely require it of you, and it would be sin against you. But if you refrain from making a vow, you will not be guilty of sin. Be careful to follow through on what comes from your lips, because you have freely vowed to the LORD your God with your own mouth."

These passages highlight that while making a vow is voluntary, once made, it becomes a binding obligation. The emphasis is on the voluntary nature of vows and the moral imperative to fulfill them once spoken.

Examples of Vows in Scripture

Several notable biblical figures made vows to God, illustrating the practice's significance:

· Jacob's Vow: In Genesis 28:20-22, Jacob makes a vow to God at Bethel, promising that if God will be with him and provide for him, then the LORD will be his God, and he will give a tenth of all he receives.

· Hannah's Vow: In 1 Samuel 1:11, Hannah vows that if God grants her a son, she will dedicate him to the LORD all the days of his life. This vow leads to the birth of Samuel, who becomes a significant prophet in Israel.

· Jephthah's Vow: In Judges 11:30-31, Jephthah makes a rash vow, promising to offer as a burnt offering whatever comes out of his house to meet him if he returns victorious from battle. This vow results in tragic consequences, highlighting the need for careful consideration before making vows.

New Testament Perspective

In the New Testament, the emphasis shifts from the legalistic fulfillment of vows to the integrity of one's word. Jesus teaches in the Sermon on the Mount:

· Matthew 5:33-37 : "Again, you have heard that it was said to the ancients, 'Do not break your oath, but fulfill your vows to the Lord.' But I tell you not to swear at all: either by heaven, for it is God’s throne; or by the earth, for it is His footstool; or by Jerusalem, for it is the city of the great King. Nor should you swear by your head, for you cannot make a single hair white or black. Simply let your 'Yes' be 'Yes,' and your 'No,' 'No.' Anything more comes from the evil one."

Here, Jesus emphasizes the importance of honesty and straightforwardness in communication, suggesting that one's word should be sufficient without the need for additional vows or oaths.

Theological Implications

The concept of vows in the Bible reflects the broader theme of covenantal faithfulness and the relationship between God and His people. Vows are a form of worship and commitment, demonstrating trust in God's provision and sovereignty. They also serve as a reminder of the believer's responsibility to live a life of integrity and devotion, honoring God with both words and actions.

Argument. --That God Also Appeared to Jacob as an Angel; Namely ...
... I am God, who appeared to thee in the place of God, where thou anointedst for me
there the standing stone, and there vowedst a vow unto me: now therefore arise ...
/.../chapter xix argument that god also.htm

The Same is Proved from the visions which Appeared to Jacob.
... For I have seen what Laban doeth unto thee. I am the God who appeared to thee in
Bethel, [2151] where thou anointedst a pillar and vowedst a vow unto Me. ...
/.../chapter lviii the same is proved.htm

That Christ is at once Angel and God.
... Angel of the Lord spake unto me in dreams, I am God, whom thou sawest in the place
of God [3957] where thou anointedst me a pillar of stone, and vowedst to me ...
/.../cyprian/three books of testimonies against the jews/5 that christ is at.htm

A Letter from Origen to Africanus.
... I am God, who appeared unto thee in the place of God, where thou anointedst to Me
there a pillar, and vowedst a vow there to Me: now arise, get thee out from ...
//christianbookshelf.org/origen/origens letters/a letter from origen to.htm

Vowedst (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Vowedst (1 Occurrence). Genesis 31:13 I am the
God of Bethel, where thou anointedst the pillar, and where ...
/v/vowedst.htm - 6k

Vowed (34 Occurrences)

/v/vowed.htm - 17k

Vowest (3 Occurrences)

/v/vowest.htm - 7k

Nativity (9 Occurrences)
... Genesis 31:13 I am the God of Beth-el, where thou anointedst a pillar, where thou
vowedst a vow unto me: now arise, get thee out from this land, and return ...
/n/nativity.htm - 11k

Beth-el (65 Occurrences)
... Genesis 31:13 I am the God of Beth-el, where thou anointedst a pillar, where thou
vowedst a vow unto me: now arise, get thee out from this land, and return ...
/b/beth-el.htm - 27k

Anointedst (1 Occurrence)
... Genesis 31:13 I am the God of Bethel, where thou anointedst the pillar, and where
thou vowedst a vow unto me: now arise, get thee out from this land, and ...
/a/anointedst.htm - 6k

Kindred (41 Occurrences)
... Genesis 31:13 I am the God of Bethel, where thou anointedst the pillar, and where
thou vowedst a vow unto me: now arise, get thee out from this land, and ...
/k/kindred.htm - 21k

Depart (211 Occurrences)
... See NAS). Genesis 31:13 I am the ?God of Bethel, where thou anointedst the
pillar, where thou vowedst a vow to me. Now arise, depart ...
/d/depart.htm - 36k

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