Minced Oaths
A minced oath is a euphemistic expression formed by misspelling, mispronouncing, or replacing a part of a profane, blasphemous, or taboo term to reduce the originalterm’s objectionable characteristics.
You will find, below the questions, a link to a website that has a list of minced oaths and their meaning.
Throughout the Bible Christians are admonished to be very careful about their speech, especially when it comes to showing respect and reverence to God. In today’s society, it is common for the secular world to use euphemisms such as ‘gee’ or ‘gosh’, or acronyms such as ‘OMG’ as a means of expressing oaths in a mild or less offensive manner. Unfortunately, many Christians also seem to think that using these terms is acceptable, and often use them without stopping to consider their real meaning. For example, ‘gee’ or ‘gosh’ are both used as substitutes for Jesus or God. Some may use terms such as ‘holy cow’ or even ‘holy crap’ nonchalantly, or without any thought as to the impression it may leave. Holy is a word which should only be used in describing something that is moral or ethical in the sight of God. Christians are to be holy or set apart for God, and their language should always be such that will show reverence, and reflect an appreciation for the holiness found only in our triune God.
Isaiah 6:5 ‘Then I said, Woe is me, for I am ruined! because I am a man of unclean lips, and I live among a people of unclean lips; for my eyes have seen the King, the LORD of hosts.’
Psalm 19:14 ‘Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in Your sight, O Lord, my strength, and my Redeemer.’
Psalm 141:3 ‘Set a guard O LORD, over my mouth; keep watch over the door of my lips.’
Colossians 4:6 ‘Let your speech always be with grace, as though seasoned with salt, so you will know how you should answer every man.’
Colossians 3:17 ‘And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by Him.’
Do you find yourself using ‘mild oaths’ carelessly?
Do you think it is wrong for Christians to use such language?
How can one change or get rid of such a habit?