Skip to content

OATH, n. In law, a solemn appeal to the Deity, made…

“OATH, n. In law, a solemn appeal to the Deity, made binding upon the conscience by a penalty for perjury.” quote by Ambrose Bierce
Download Open image
“OATH, n. In law, a solemn appeal to the Deity, made binding upon the conscience by a penalty for perjury.”

Ambrose Bierce

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

An oath is a solemn promise invoking a deity, enforceable by conscience and fear of perjury.

In simple terms: Oaths bind conscience with divine penalty.

Key Takeaway

Respect the seriousness of oaths.

Themes

law morality conscience promise

Mood

critical analytical

Type

philosophical educational

When to use this quote

  • court testimony
  • public office
  • personal vows
  • ethical decision‑making

Key Concepts

Ethics legal binding

Questions to Reflect On

  • Do you think oaths are still effective today?
  • How do secular societies enforce promises?
A Different Perspective

Oaths may be ignored without belief in deity.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Ambrose Bierce

Explore all 1,157 Ambrose Bierce quotes

More Appeals quotes

Browse all 1,420 Appeals quotes