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The oath adds nothing to the obligation. For a covenant…

“The oath adds nothing to the obligation. For a covenant, if lawful, binds in the sight of God, without the oath, as much as with it; if unlawful, bindeth not at all, though it be confirmed with an oath.” quote by Thomas Hobbes
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“The oath adds nothing to the obligation. For a covenant, if lawful, binds in the sight of God, without the oath, as much as with it; if unlawful, bindeth not at all, though it be confirmed with an oath.”

Thomas Hobbes

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 does not increase the binding power of a covenant; legality alone determines its force.

In simple terms: Oaths add no extra weight beyond legality.

Key Takeaway

Rely on lawful agreements, not promises.

Themes

law justice contracts religion

Mood

serious reflective

Type

philosophical legal

When to use this quote

  • court proceedings
  • business contracts
  • personal vows

Key Concepts

social contract legal theory binding agreements

Questions to Reflect On

  • Do you trust agreements without oaths?
  • When does an oath matter socially?
A Different Perspective

An oath may still carry moral or emotional weight despite legal equivalence.

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