Ecclesiastes 5:7 - Coke's Commentary on the Holy Bible

For in the multitude of dreams, &c.— From the 2nd to this verse we have Solomon's second admonition to this purpose. Let no one rashly call by oaths upon Him who dwells in heaven, to be a witness of what passeth upon earth; and, to avoid the occasions of swearing, be sparing of your words; for the voice of a giddy man is like a dream. His many words are as vain, when you come to examine them, as the uneasiness brought on you by a dream, which vanisheth away when you awake: Ecclesiastes 5:3. Yet if you have vowed or promised any thing with an oath, do not be dilatory in performing it. You were free, and might have dispensed with binding yourself in that manner; but after taking such an engagement upon you, not to discharge it is the behaviour of an imprudent man, who does not know his own will: Ecclesiastes 5:4. Do not aggravate the crime by denying the vow when you are required to pay it. Discharge your engagement, and do not provoke God to anger, who is able to punish you with the utmost severity. The words or arguments which you might think of using to justify yourself, are as vain as dreams. Therefore do not attempt it; but fear him to whom you are really bound, notwithstanding all the evasions you may have recourse to: Ecclesiastes 5:5-7.