VOW,

VOW, in the scriptural use, means a solemn religious promise or covenant by which one binds himself to do or suffer certain things, depending on God for power to accomplish them. The first instance of such a vow recorded in Scripture is that made by Jacob when on the flight to Padan-aram. Gen 28:20-22; Gen 31:13. As vows were voluntary engagements, not prescribed by the Mosaic Law, they were made with prayer and paid with thanksgiving. Num 6:2-21; Jud 11:30-31; Ps 61:5; Acts 18:18. See Nazarites.

VOW, in the scriptural use, means a solemn religious promise or covenant by which one binds himself to do or suffer certain things, depending on God for power to accomplish them. The first instance of such a vow recorded in Scripture is that made by Jacob when on the flight to Padan-aram. Gen 28:20-22; Gen 31:13. As vows were voluntary engagements, not prescribed by the Mosaic Law, they were made with prayer and paid with thanksgiving. Num 6:2-21; Jud 11:30-31; Ps 61:5; Acts 18:18. See Nazarites.

Part of speech: noun (n.)

1. A solemn promise made to God, or to some deity; an act by which one consecrates or devotes himself, absolutely or conditionally, wholly or in part, for a longer or shorter time, to some act, service, or condition; a devotion of one's possessions; as, a baptismal vow; a vow of poverty. "Nothing . . . that may . . . stain my vow of Nazarite." Milton. I pray thee, let me go and pay my vow. 2 Sam. xv. 7. I am combined by a sacred vow. Shak.

2. Specifically, a promise of fidelity; a pledge of love or affection; as, the marriage vow. Knights of love, who never broke their vow; Firm to their plighted faith. Dryden.

Part of speech: verb (v.)

1. To give, consecrate, or dedicate to God, or to some deity, by a solemn promise; to devote; to promise solemnly. "When thou vowest a vow unto God, defer not to pay it." Eccl. v. 4. [Men] that vow a long and weary pilgrimage. Shak.

2. To assert solemnly; to asseverate.

Part of speech: verb (v.)

To make a vow, or solemn promise. Better is it that thou shouldest not vow, than that thou shouldest vow and not pay. Eccl. v. 5.