Above all things (προ παντων). No connection with what immediately precedes. Probably an allusion to the words of Jesus ([Referenc…

But above all things. That is, be especially careful on this point; whatever else is done, let not this be. The manner in which James spea…

The question of the lawfulness of oaths has often perplexed both the teachers of the Church and its simpler hearers of God’s word. The text, taken …

James next places special emphasis on the prohibition of oaths: “Above all... do not swear.” As in v.9, the grammatical construction shows that the…

But above all things. It has been a common vice in almost all ages to swear lightly and inconsiderately. For so bad is our nature that we …

But above all things, my brethren, swear not
As impatience should not show itself in secret sighs, groans, murmuring…

The sin of swearing is condemned; but how many make light of common profane swearing! Such swearing expre ly shows contempt for God's name and auth…