Proper Way to Pledge an Oath

 

Question:

Hi! Today is my citizenship ceremony. If I’m asked to pledge allegiance is it permitted? Is it the same as a vow? What’s the “kosher” way? I’ll take my chitas too in case they ask me to touch the xtian bible, maybe they’ll allow me to touch my own?

 

Answer:

It is permitted to pledge allegiance but you substitute the words “solemnly affirm” for the words “on oath”, as permitted by law:

“When a petitioner or applicant for naturalization, by reason of religious training and belief (or individual interpretation thereof), or for other reasons of good conscience, cannot take the oath prescribed in paragraph (a) of this section with the words “on oath” … the words “and solemnly affirm” shall be substituted for the words “on oath” … and the oath shall be taken in such modified form. Any reference to ‘oath of allegiance’ in this chapter is understood to mean equally ‘affirmation of allegiance’ as described in this paragraph.”

See here.

You certainly shouldn’t lift up the xtian bible. I don’t think it is a requirement.

 

See also here:

I have to go to court next week. If they ask me to, am I allowed to swear on the bible?

 

 

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