At this point, we can readily understand the juxtaposition of these two seemingly disconnected subjects. The Torah here wishes to teach us the power of speech. Every word uttered must be carefully measured. Even an oath taken while under the influence of the pangs of childbirth must be accounted for. Even a seemingly harmless comment about a fellow Jew must be dealt with.
Words do mean something.
We cannot allow our mouths to run free without any concern for what may result. Just as the Torah was given to us on Mount Sinai, not by a scroll that fell from the sky, but through the holy word of Hashem, so too must we purify and sanctify our own speech. Yoel Spotts , a native Atlantan, is currently enrolled in a joint program with the University of Maryland and Ner Israel Rabbinical College, both in Baltimore.