v1-2: Although a man was not obliged to make a vow to the Lord, once made, such a vow had to be kept. Even here, there is reference to a "rash promise" (v8), indicating that such things must be made carefully.

In the N.T., the Lord Jesus forbade such vows, see Matt 5.33-37. The words of a follower of God must be truthful and reliable. Jephtha and Saul were both guilty of making rash vows.

v6-8: The husband had authority over the wife, and must take responsibility to protect her. Where husband and wife were in agreement, these rules could provide some strength and support; however a divided and unhappy home would remain so, whatever vows were made.

v14: Silence could confirm a vow; we should be careful that our silence does not approve something that we don't like. Compare Eccl 8.11, where failure to punish a crime may be taken as approval.