Matthew 5:33

Translations

Modern

Again, you have heard that it was said to the ancients, ‘Do not break your oath, but fulfill your vows to the Lord.’

Traditional

Again, ye have heard that it hath been said by them of old time, Thou shalt not forswear thyself, but shalt perform unto the Lord thine oaths:

Literal

Again, you heard that it was said to the ancients, ‘You shall not swear falsely, but you shall repay your oaths to the Lord.’

Latin

Iterum audistis quia dictum est antiquis: Non perjurabis: reddes autem Domino juramenta tua.

Original

Greek

English

Again, you have heard that it was said to the ancients, ‘Do not break your oath, but fulfill your vows to the Lord.’

Notes

Matthew 5:33–37

Jesus explains the Old Testament's teachings on oaths (Leviticus 19:12; Numbers 30:2–4; Deuteronomy 23:21–23; Psalm 50:14; Zechariah 8:17).

The Pharisees had different levels of commitment for oaths. For example, oaths not mentioning God were less serious. Jesus teaches that everything connects to God. This includes heaven, earth, Jerusalem, my head (see also Matthew 23:16–22). So, breaking any oath disobeys God's command (see Exodus 20:7).

The main idea is to always be truthful. The teachings of Jesus make a disciple's simple "yes or no" as serious as an oath. Honest people do not need oaths (James 5:12).

Matthew 5:21–47

You have heard … But I tell you: Jesus contrasts his teachings to six misunderstandings of the law. Each example shows the surpassing righteousness of Jesus. Jesus reveals God's will, which contrasts with human traditions.

Theme notes and profiles

Moses Biblical Law Faith and Good Deeds Vows to God

Events

Sermon on the Mountc. AD 28

Related verses

Deuteronomy 23:21
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 you will be guilty of sin.
Leviticus 19:12
You must not swear falsely by My name and so profane the name of your God. I am the LORD.
Ecclesiastes 5:4–6
When you make a vow to God, do not delay in fulfilling it, because He takes no pleasure in fools. Fulfill your vow.
Deuteronomy 23:23
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.
Numbers 30:2–16
If 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.
Psalm 76:11
Make and fulfill your vows to the LORD your God; let all the neighboring lands bring tribute to Him who is to be feared.
Deuteronomy 5:11
You shall not take the name of the LORD your God in vain, for the LORD will not leave anyone unpunished who takes His name in vain.
Exodus 20:7
You shall not take the name of the LORD your God in vain, for the LORD will not leave anyone unpunished who takes His name in vain.
Matthew 23:16–22
Woe to you, blind guides! You say, ‘If anyone swears by the temple, it means nothing; but if anyone swears by the gold of the temple, he is bound by his oath.’
Psalm 50:14
Sacrifice a thank offering to God, and fulfill your vows to the Most High.
Nahum 1:15
Look to the mountains—the feet of one who brings good news, who proclaims peace! Celebrate your feasts, O Judah; fulfill your vows. For the wicked will never again march through you; they will be utterly cut off.

Matthew 5:33

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