| The Torah Connection: Ruth: A Decree With an Oath |
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| Written by Rabbi Yaakov Shlomo Weinberg |
 Regarding a tzibur (a congregation), a decree against them, even if it was sealed, can be torn up. However, if accompanied with an oath it can no longer be annulled.
A Sign of Love It would seem that this is a sign of a very strong judgment since it was accompanied by an oath. However, in reality it signifies Hashem’s tremendous love and mercy towards Yisroel. The Three Oaths “There were three who were worried that their inclinations might get the better of them so they took an oath in order to avert that possibility.
One was Yosef regarding Potifar’s wife. One was Boaz when he found himself alone with Rus at night. The third one was Dovid who had Shaul in his power but restrained himself from killing him.
Hashem’s Oath When Hashem punishes, it is always for the good of the people. However, because of Hashem’s tremendous love and mercy for Yisroel there is, as it were, an “inclination” to forego the punishment. Hashem, therefore, takes an oath to carry out what is needed.
1 An oath using Hashem’s Name made the prohibition much more stringent and dissolved their inclinations. 2 I Shmuel chp. 26 3 Vayikra Rabah 23:11
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