Discussion » Statements » Rosie's Corner » "Do you swear to tell the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth so help you God?" What oath do Atheists take?
RosieG

"Do you swear to tell the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth so help you God?" What oath do Atheists take?

Posted - January 12, 2017
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Responses


  • 10050
    I believe that they say they swear and affirm to tell the truth under penalty of law. Personally, I think that this should be universal, due to separation of church and state, and the fact that "God" has a different meaning to many people, and he has no jurisdiction in any human court.
      January 12, 2017 9:57 AM MST
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  • 19937
    They don't have to swear - I believe it's just affirm.
      January 12, 2017 2:18 PM MST
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  • 113301
    Actually far too many pols bring God everywhere they go and use Him as an excuse for their very bad pushy oppressive obsessive aggressive behavior. Thank you for your reply SA and Happy Friday! :)
      January 13, 2017 5:16 AM MST
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  • 22891
    probably the same ones we do
      January 12, 2017 11:40 AM MST
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  • 113301
    Thank you for your reply pearl! :)
      January 13, 2017 5:17 AM MST
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  • I'm happy to take that oath. Why not? It's only a formality. 

    I don't believe there's a God so I don't have to fear him kicking my butt if I "take his name in vain" (which is the real meaning of that expression) but when I swear to do something, I do it. From a realistic point of view, lying under oath is not an offence against God, it's an offence against the law of the land and can land you in the hoosegow whether you're a believer or not. 
      January 12, 2017 3:11 PM MST
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  • 113301
    Thank you for your reply Didge. So the words themselves are meaningless and are dependent upon what you impute to them?
      January 13, 2017 5:18 AM MST
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  • In my opinion, yes, but that will vary from person to person. If your promises (or oaths) are worthless it's hard to have any self respect. 
      January 13, 2017 6:21 AM MST
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  • Sorry Rosie, but I just couldn't resist the temptation....

    http://newsthump.com/2017/01/03/donald-trump-to-be-sworn-in-on-book-of-carpet-samples/
      January 13, 2017 6:39 AM MST
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