What in the Word? What Does It Mean to Take God's Name in Vain? | Carmen Imes on Exodus 20:7
19 snips
Mar 19, 2025 Carmen Joy Imes, an Associate Professor of Old Testament at Talbot School of Theology, dives into the rich layers of Exodus 20:7 and what it truly means to take God's name in vain. She explores historical and linguistic insights, emphasizing the command's significance beyond mere speech. Imes discusses the responsibilities of the Israelite nation as representatives of God and the profound implications for contemporary believers. This fascinating conversation challenges listeners to reflect on how their actions embody God's character in daily life.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Lifting Up God's Name
- The Hebrew word "tisa" in "lo tisa" means "to lift up" or "to carry",
- leading to interpretations focused on oath-taking or speaking the name.
Two Main Interpretations
- Interpretations of the commandment fall into two categories: oath-taking and speech.
- These relate to either not swearing by God's name or not uttering it inappropriately.
False Witness and Oaths
- Exodus 20:16 prohibits false witness, suggesting a judicial context.
- The Sermon on the Mount's prohibition on oaths may relate to this, not solely to the name commandment.
