Exodus 20:7 Meaning and Explanation
“Thou shalt not take the name of the LORD thy God in vain; for the LORD will not hold him guiltless that taketh his name in vain.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →God forbids misusing His name through false oaths, curses, or irreverent speech.
The Context of Exodus 20:7
God forbids misusing His name through false oaths or irreverent speech.
What Does Exodus 20:7 Mean?
The 'name of the LORD' represents God Himself—His character, power, and authority. To take His name 'in vain' means to use it carelessly, falsely, or disrespectfully—swearing false oaths by His name, invoking His name in curses without sincerity, or speaking of Him with contempt. The prohibition is serious because invoking God's name makes Him a party to the act; misusing it profanes the relationship and God's character.
The weight of this commandment lies in accountability: the Lord will not hold guiltless those who take His name in vain. This is the only commandment in the Decalogue that explicitly names a consequence. Using God's name trivially or falsely attaches His authority to lies or irreverence, corrupting the sacred trust between God and His people.
Exodus 20:7 in the Original Language
Shav (שוא), 'vain' — means emptiness, falsehood, or frivolity; suggests using God's name for hollow, worthless, or deceptive purposes.
Frequently Asked Questions About Exodus 20:7
What does Exodus 20:7 mean?
God forbids misusing His name through false oaths, curses, or irreverent speech.
What is the context of Exodus 20:7?
God forbids misusing His name through false oaths or irreverent speech.