What is an oath defined as?

An oath is defined as a solemn promise, typically invoking a divine witness regarding the sincerity of the person making the promise. This solemnity emphasizes the commitment to the truthfulness or fulfillment of the promise, often associated with legal and formal situations such as court proceedings or ceremonies.

In contrast, a formal agreement may encompass various types of understanding or contracts that do not necessarily carry the same weight of personal accountability as an oath. A declaration of intent could imply plans or aspirations without the gravitas associated with a solemn promise. A casual commitment lacks the seriousness and assuredness that an oath represents, as it does not usually involve invoking a higher authority or the same level of dedication. Thus, the essence of an oath is rooted firmly in the concept of a solemn promise, making that the correct definition.