The form of taking an oath, though it differs in words, agrees in meaning; for it ought to have this sense, that the Deity be invoked.

Explanation

The particular words of an oath may vary by custom or jurisdiction, but the substance is universal — every lawful oath must invoke the Almighty as witness to the truth of what is sworn.

Where this applies

• The oath was taken in a different form than what's traditional but it still invoked God.
• Someone objects to the wording of an oath even though the meaning was the same.
• An oath was valid in substance even though the exact words were non-standard.