Tag Archives: Bible

George Washington and the Book of Proverbs

Posted on by September 24, 2015

As I was teaching an adult Sunday School class about the Old Testament book of Proverbs, it struck me how similar the maxims in that book are to the maxims by which George Washington learned penmanship.

By the way, a proverb is a short popular saying, usually of unknown and ancient origin, that expresses effectively some commonplace truth or useful thought, adage,  or saw.

In 1745 George was tutored by a teacher from France who supervised his practice of penmanship. George transcribed from dictation what were known as the “110 Rules of Civility and Decent Behavior in Company and Conversation” as a method of mastering his proper penmanship. He would hear and write these Rules over and over again. read more

A Vow is Only as Good as an Oath

Posted on by April 30, 2010

Every public servant, such as a judge, Senator, or Congressman, makes a personal oath when entering into such a position. It is required by the Constitution.

The Presidential Oath is set forth in the Constitution as: “I do solemnly swear that I will faithfully execute the Office of President of the United States, and will to the best of my Ability, preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States.”

When being sworn in as our first President, George Washington spontaneously added the words: “so help me God.”  This has becoome a traditional part of the Oath of office. read more