I swear!

There may begin to be a fight over the use of the Bible as what people swear on (in court and when "swearing in" a new official etc.) Read article here for more information.

Is it really necessary that we use a Bible to "swear" someone in? Is it necessary that we use any "religious book" to swear someone in?

A basic argument is ... why the Bible? As Christians I can see an importance for it of course, but what do I care if someone who isn't a follower of Jesus, lays hands on the Bible stating symbolically that they will rot in very hot places if they don't live up to the "swear"? It neither makes them a follower of Jesus nor gives them brownie points in God's eyes.

To me, what is funny is that the Bible states in James 5:12 "But above all, my brethren, do not swear, either by heaven or by earth or with any other oath. But let your "Yes," be "Yes," and your "No," "No," lest you fall into judgment."

Our word should be good enough.

Maybe we could just say "cross my heart, hope to die, stick a thousand needles in my eye"?

By the way, who the heck invented that phrase? A bit grotesque in my opinion.