Epistles and Oaths

Name: Epistles and Oaths
Author: Samuel Taylor Coleridge

The work presents a critical examination of two significant themes: the nature of Christian doctrine and the practice of oath-taking. It begins by discussing the Epistle to the Ephesians, highlighting its comprehensive coverage of Christian teachings, including both unique doctrines and those shared with natural religion. This epistle is portrayed as a profound and divine composition, essential for understanding the breadth of Christian thought. In contrast, the text critiques the contemporary practice of oaths, labeling it as absurd and morally questionable. The author argues that compelling individuals to invoke divine retribution for falsehoods is inherently sinful. The discussion references the Jewish tradition of oaths, particularly the practice of judges adjuring witnesses in the name of God, exemplified by a biblical instance involving Christ. The author posits that the prevalence of oath-taking correlates with an increase in dishonesty among people, suggesting that the very act of swearing an oath may undermine trust rather than reinforce it. This critique extends to a broader commentary on the moral implications of legal and social practices surrounding truth-telling and integrity. Overall, the work juxtaposes the spiritual and ethical dimensions of Christian doctrine with a pointed critique of societal norms regarding oaths, advocating for a reevaluation of how truth is upheld in both religious and secular contexts.

By Samuel Taylor Coleridge · First published 1834 · Genre: Philosophical Literature, Religious Literature, Theological Treatise · 305 words

First lines

The Epistle to the Ephesians is evidently a catholic epistle, addressed to the whole of what might be called St. Paul's diocese. It is one of the divinest compositions of man. It embraces every doctrine of Christianity; -- first, those doctrines peculiar to Christianity, and then those precepts common to it with natural religion. The Epistle to the Colossians is the overflowing, as it were, of St. Paul's mind upon the same subject.

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Epistles and Oaths is listed on Textopian as an essay by Samuel Taylor Coleridge, dated 1834 CE.

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Work type: Essay
Author: Samuel Taylor Coleridge
Date: 1834 CE
Language: English
Genres: Philosophical Literature, Religious Literature, Theological Treatise, Essay, Critique
Length: 305 words
Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)

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Genres

Philosophical Literature — The text explores deep moral and ethical questions regarding oaths and truth, characteristic of philosophical inquiry.
Religious Literature — The work discusses Christian doctrines and the implications of oaths within a religious context.
Theological Treatise — It examines theological concepts related to oaths and their moral significance in Christianity.
Essay — The format and style resemble an essay, presenting arguments and reflections on specific topics.