ows to be kept. (1,2) The cases wherein vows might be
released. (3-16)
Verse 1,2: No man can be bound by his own promise to do what he is
already, by the Divine precept, forbidden to do. In other
matters the command is, that he shall not break his words,
through he may change his mind.
Verses 3-16: Two cases of vows are determined. The case of a daughter
in her father's house. When her vow comes to his knowledge, it
is in his power either to confirm it or do it away. The law is
plain in the case of a wife. If her husband allows her vow,
though only by silence, it stands. If he disallows it, her
obligation to her husband takes place of it; for to him she
ought to be in subjection, as unto the Lord. The Divine law
consults the good order of families. It is fit that every man
should bear rule in his own house, and have his wife and
children in subjection; rather than that this great rule should
be broken, or any encouragement be given to inferior relations
to break those bonds asunder, God releases the obligation even
of a solemn vow. So much does religion secure the welfare of all
societies; and in it the families of the earth have a blessing.
ows to be kept. (1,2) The cases wherein vows might be
released. (3-16)