Topical Encyclopedia In the biblical context, a vow is a solemn promise or commitment made to God, often involving a pledge to perform a specific act, offer a sacrifice, or abstain from certain behaviors. The Scriptures emphasize the importance of fulfilling vows made to the Lord, underscoring the seriousness with which such commitments should be regarded.Old Testament Teachings The Old Testament provides numerous references to vows, highlighting their sacred nature and the expectation of faithful fulfillment. In Numbers 30:2 , it is stated, "When a man makes a vow to the LORD or swears an oath to obligate himself by a pledge, he must not break his word; he must do everything he has promised." This passage underscores the binding nature of vows and the moral obligation to honor them. Deuteronomy 23:21-23 further elaborates on this principle: "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." Here, the text acknowledges the voluntary nature of vows but stresses the sinfulness of failing to fulfill them once made. The account of Hannah in 1 Samuel 1 illustrates the personal and heartfelt nature of vows. Hannah, in her deep distress, vowed to dedicate her son to the Lord if He would grant her a child. Upon the birth of Samuel, she faithfully fulfilled her vow, demonstrating her devotion and integrity. New Testament Insights In the New Testament, the emphasis shifts slightly, focusing more on the integrity of one's word and the spirit behind making promises. Jesus, in His Sermon on the Mount, addresses the issue of oaths and vows, urging His followers to speak truthfully without the need for elaborate promises. Matthew 5:33-37 records His teaching: "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... Simply let your 'Yes' be 'Yes,' and your 'No,' 'No.' Anything more comes from the evil one." This teaching emphasizes the importance of honesty and integrity in all speech, suggesting that a person of true character should not need to resort to vows to be believed. However, it does not negate the importance of fulfilling vows made to God, as seen in the broader biblical context. Theological Implications Theologically, vows are seen as acts of worship and devotion, reflecting a believer's commitment to God. They are not to be made lightly or thoughtlessly, as they represent a binding agreement with the Almighty. Ecclesiastes 5:4-5 warns, "When you make a vow to God, do not delay in fulfilling it, because He takes no pleasure in fools. Fulfill your vow. It is better not to vow than to make a vow and not fulfill it." The faithful performance of vows is a testament to one's faith and trust in God, acknowledging His sovereignty and expressing gratitude or supplication. The Bible consistently teaches that God values integrity and faithfulness, and the keeping of vows is a reflection of these virtues. Practical Considerations In practical terms, believers are encouraged to consider carefully before making vows, ensuring that they are made with sincere intent and the capacity to fulfill them. The biblical admonition is clear: vows are not to be used as bargaining tools or made under compulsion but should arise from a genuine desire to honor God. In summary, the biblical teaching on vows underscores their sacredness and the necessity of fulfilling them faithfully. Whether in the context of personal devotion, communal worship, or ethical conduct, vows are a profound expression of one's relationship with God and should be treated with the utmost seriousness and respect. Torrey's Topical Textbook Numbers 30:2If a man vow a vow to the LORD, or swear an oath to bind his soul with a bond; he shall not break his word, he shall do according to all that proceeds out of his mouth. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library With the Entry of Angela's Great Picture "The Coming of Christ" ... Relation of the Pharisees to the Sadducees and Essenes, and to the ... That the Proper School of Contemplation is Solitude. ... Of the Life and Death of the Abbess Hilda. [614-680 AD ] Covenanting a Duty. Some More Particular Directions for Maintaining Continual ... Baptismal Regeneration Go Teach all Nations Of the Five Sacraments, Falsely So Called. Their Spuriousness ... Still the Countess Sylvie was Silent. ... Resources What sort of things should be in Christian wedding/marriage vows? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about keeping your vows / oaths? | GotQuestions.org What does it mean to let your yes be yes and your no be no? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Vows of Ananias and Sapphira, in the Dedication of the Proceeds of the Sale of Their Land Vows of Certain Jews With Paul Vows of Children Void Without the Consent of Parents Vows of Hannah, to Consecrate to the Lord the Child for Which She Prayed Vows of Job, not to Entertain Thoughts of Fornication Vows of Mariners Who Cast out Jonah Vows of Married Women Void Without Consent of Husbands Vows of the Jews, to Kill Paul Vows of the Mother of Micah, in the Dedication of Silver for the Making of an Idol Vows of Things Corrupt or Blemished an Insult to God Vows of Widows and Women Divorced from Their Husbands Binding Vows of Wives, Could Only be Objected to at the Time of Making Vows were Made in Reference to Afflicting the Soul Vows were Made in Reference to Dedicating Children to God Vows were Made in Reference to Devoting Property to God Vows were Made in Reference to Devoting the Person to God Vows were Made in Reference to Offering Sacrifices Vows: All Things Dedicated By, to be Brought to the Tabernacle Vows: Clean Beasts the Subjects of, not to be Redeemed Vows: Danger of Inconsiderately Making Vows: Edible Things offered In, to be Eaten the Same Day They Were offered Vows: Estimation of the Redemption Price of Things offered in Vows Vows: Might be Redeemed by Paying a Suitable Compensation Vows: Rash: The Israelites, to Destroy the Benjamites Vows: Solemn Promises Made to God Vows: The Hire of a Prostitute or Price of a Dog Could not be The Vows: The Redemption Price of the offering of Real Estate, to be Valued by the Priest Vows: Things Forbidden to be offered in Receipts of the Whore and the Price of a "Dog" Vows: Things offered In, to be Brought to the Tabernacle or Temple Vows: To be Performed Faithfully Vows: To be Performed Without Delay Vows: Unclassified Scriptures Relating To Related Terms Free-will-offerings (6 Occurrences) Freewill-offerings (8 Occurrences) Drink-offerings (31 Occurrences) Voluntary-offerings (4 Occurrences) Heave-offering (55 Occurrences) |
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