This quote is a profound commentary on trust, integrity, and the value of one’s word. It suggests that if a person’s word is not reliable, then their sworn oath won’t be trustworthy either. If someone is willing to break a simple promise, they would not hesitate to break a more serious vow or oath.
The first part, “I’ll take thy word for faith, not ask thine oath” implies that the speaker would rather trust someone’s word, considering it as a testament of their faith, rather than asking them to make a solemn vow or oath. This is based on the belief that a person’s word should be enough to guarantee their commitment or truthfulness.
The second part, “Who shuns not to break one will sure crack both” reinforces this idea. It suggests that a person who doesn’t hesitate to break their word will certainly break their oath as well. In essence, it’s a reflection on character. If a person lacks integrity to keep their word, they lack the moral fiber to uphold an oath.
In today’s world, this concept is still highly relevant. Trust and integrity are crucial in all aspects of life, from personal relationships to professional settings. If a person can’t be trusted to keep their word in small matters, it’s unlikely they’ll be reliable in more significant issues. This quote encourages us to value our words and promises, and to strive for integrity in all we do.
In terms of personal development, this quote can serve as a reminder of the importance of being a person of your word. It emphasizes the idea that trust is built through consistent actions over time, not just through grand promises or oaths. This can be a guiding principle in personal growth, encouraging honesty, reliability, and accountability.