It occurred to me the other day that I'm not really clear on the origin of the idea of swearing on something. It seems reasonably clear that swearing on or by a deity is akin to saying \"May God strike me dead if I'm lying\"; and I suppose \"I swear on my soul\" means \"my soul is forfeit if I'm lying.\" But what about \"I swear on my honor\" or \"I swear on my mother's grave\"? I guess giving one's \"word of honor\" is an indication that one should be considered dishonorable by everyone if one is lying—but that seems a little tautological somehow, because wouldn't everyone consider you dishonorable for lying regardless of whether you swore?<\/p>\n
And I'm really unclear on the \"mother's grave\" business. Is it that lying would then bring dishonor to your mother's grave?<\/p>\n
The web and Brewer's Dictionary of Phrase and Fable<\/cite> are both unable to help me in this matter. Ideas welcome.<\/p>\n Meanwhile, while looking for that info, I happened across a modernized paraphrase of Romeo and Juliet<\/cite><\/a> (or at least the balcony scene). I rather like this bit:<\/p>\n Jeff<\/strong>: I want to be your lovesick puppy.<\/p>\n Jacy<\/strong>: That's sweet, but it's late and tomorrow can't come if you never leave. Goodbye!<\/p>\n