Definition: Whoso therefore shall swear by the altar, sweareth by it, and by all things thereon.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Matthew 23:20. It's a pretty intense and symbolic part of the book. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: This verse is about taking your vows seriously and declaring them with conviction. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “Whoso therefore shall swear…” – This means anyone who makes a promise or vow. It's a declaration of commitment. “…sweareth by it, and by all things thereon.” – This is the key part. “All things thereon” refers to everything that follows the vow - the words, the actions, and even the consequences attached to it. Putting it together, here’s what it suggests: Jesus is telling those who make vows to be serious about them. He’s saying that these vows are important enough to be declared with a solemn oath – like a pledge or commitment. And he's emphasizing that everything associated with the vow should be acknowledged and considered. What does this mean in a broader context? This verse is often interpreted as a warning about: Lack of sincerity: It suggests that people who make promises without truly believing them are being dishonest. The consequences of broken vows: It implies that if you break a promise, it will have significant repercussions – perhaps even in the afterlife. Think of it like this analogy: Imagine someone promising to help a friend. If they don't actually do anything, or just say it without effort, their promise is empty and meaningless. This verse suggests that similar things can happen with vows. Important Note: This passage isn’t about literal swearing! It's a metaphorical statement about the importance of taking commitments seriously. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Give you some examples of how this principle is applied in the Bible?