The oath : genesis, development and Augustinian orientation - a revisitation in the light of recent scholarship

Abstract

Observing that oaths are commonplace and that they are utilized in a variety of situations, the paper attempts to throw some light on the phenomenon of the taking of oaths to attempt to come to grips with its widespread use. In order to fully understand this social reality it embarks on a short systematic synthesis of the theoretical basis which has been employed both, to justify the use of this singular institute, and conversely, to uphold and solicit its total abolition. After focusing on a short exposition of various types and categories of oaths, the paper proceeds with a short outline of the institute's chequered history discussing its genesis, evolution and interpretation under various cultures. Finally, it analyzes Saint Augustine's outlook based as it is both on sound philosophical and theological premises, and on his unique practical exposition of the subtleties involved as based on his particular interpretation of Christian love. This outlook may be said to have ultimately rehabilitated this phenomenon in the Christian world.