Christianity
Islam
Judaism
Hinduism
Buddhism
Oaths & Vows
Solemn promises made before God carry immense weight in every religious tradition. From Nazirite vows to Islamic oaths to Buddhist precepts, the act of binding oneself through sacred speech expresses the deepest level of commitment and accountability.
Across the World's Religions
Christianity
- Practice
- Oaths and vows — let your yes be yes
- Key Text
- Matthew 5:33-37; James 5:12; Numbers 30:2
Islam
- Practice
- Qasam / Yamin — oaths in Allah's name must be fulfilled
- Key Text
- Quran 5:89, 16:91
Judaism
- Practice
- Neder (vow) — binding; Kol Nidre annulment tradition
- Key Text
- Numbers 30:2; Deuteronomy 23:21-23; Ecclesiastes 5:4
Hinduism
- Practice
- Vrata (religious vow) — self-discipline for spiritual growth
- Key Text
- Bhagavad Gita 17:14; Yoga Sutra 2.30-32
Buddhism
- Practice
- Sila (precepts) — voluntary undertaking of moral training rules
- Key Text
- AN 8.39; Dhammapada 183