Va. Code » Title 49. Oaths, Affirmations and Bonds » Chapter 1. Oaths and Affirmations
Virginia Code

Va. Code Ann. § 49-10 (2026)

Use of Bible in administration of oaths

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No officer of this Commonwealth, or any political subdivision thereof, shall, in administering an oath in pursuance of law, require or request any person taking the oath to kiss the Holy Bible, or any book or books thereof, but persons being sworn for any purpose may be required to place their hand on the Holy Bible.

Any officer violating this section shall be subject to a fine of $100.

1920, p. 54; Michie Code 1942, § 278a.

Notes of Decisions
Cited in 1 case, 2000–2000 · leading case: Commonwealth v. Beverly, 52 Va. Cir. 255 (Suffolk Cir. Ct. 2000).
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Commonwealth v. Beverly, 52 Va. Cir. 255 (Suffolk Cir. Ct. 2000). · cites it 2× “), and may be required to place their hand on the Bible (but not kiss it) while taking the oath, see Va. Code Ann. § 49-10 (1998 Repl. Vol.). According to Sigmund Freud, this neurosis stems from psychological needs.”
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