The Second Commandment
You shall not take the name of the Lord your God in vain.
“The second commandment prescribes respect for the Lord’s name.”
(CCC 2142)
This may be one of the most abused of the commandments since it is
often done out of habit by so many, without even thinking about it. The
Catechism number 2144 says this, “Respect for his name is an expression
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of the respect owed to the mystery of God himself and to the whole
sacred reality it evokes.”
The Catechism warns of numerous offenses against the second commandment.
“The second commandment forbids the abuse of God’s name,
i.e., every improper use of the names of God, Jesus Christ, but also of
the Virgin Mary and all the saints.” (CCC 2146) For instance, have you
Christ” in an irreverent way? Many do without even thinking that they
may be breaking a commandment.
The Catechism also warns against blasphemy, misusing God’s name in
promises or oaths. (Like saying, “I swear to God!”) Breaking an oath or
promise using God’s name, as in a court proceeding, is perjury, another
offense against the second commandment.
Speaking of God is something the Christian must always do. But using
the name of God must always be done with the utmost reverence.
For further study:
CCC 2142-2167