en_tn_condensed/jas/05/12.md

Above all, my brothers,

"This is important, my brothers:" or "Especially, my brothers,"

my brothers

"my fellow believers"

do not swear

"do not make an oath" or "do not make a vow"

either by heaven or by the earth

The words "heaven" and "earth" refer to the spiritual or human authorities that are in heaven and earth.

let your "Yes" mean "Yes" and your "No" mean "No,"

"If you say "Yes" or "No," say it truthfully"

so you do not fall under judgment

"so God will not punish you"