[[8]] See the author's autobiography, A Far Journey, chap. 1, entitled "My Father's House."
[[9]] Matt. viii: 32; Mark v: 13; Luke viii: 33.
[[10]] For the reason why the mother of the prodigal is not mentioned in the parable, see pages 207 and 334.
[[11]] Matt. xiii: 44.
[[12]] Atlantic Monthly, December, 1915. This story, with other essays, will soon appear in book form.
CHAPTER VII
SWEARING
Perhaps the one phase of his speech which lays the Oriental open to the charge of unveracity is his much swearing. Of course this evil habit knows no geographical boundaries and no racial limits. However, probably because of their tendency to be profuse, intense, and positive in speech, the Orientals no doubt have more than their legitimate share of swearing. But it should be kept in mind that in that part of the world swearing is not looked upon with the same disapproval and contempt as in America; swearing by the name of the Deity has always been considered the most sacred and solemn affirmation of a statement. It is simply calling God to witness that what has been said is the sacred truth. Thus in the twenty-first chapter of the book of Genesis Abimelech asks Abraham, "Now therefore swear unto me here by God that thou wilt not deal falsely with me, nor with my son, nor with my son's son." "And Abraham said, I will swear."