"So help you God"

[Jim__]

3. I think there are alternatives.

From a 1985 article in the LA Times:

Witnesses in court proceedings cannot be forced to affirm that they are telling the truth if they object to such affirmations on religious grounds, the U.S. 9th Circuit Court of Appeals ruled Thursday.

In striking down the established legal alternative to a sworn oath for those with religious objections to taking oaths of any kind, a divided three-judge 9th Circuit panel said there is no need for any formal vow of honesty before a witness testifies.

Suggesting new language for that part of courtroom ceremony still known as the "swearing in" of witnesses when religious objections arise, the 9th Circuit panel said the following phrase would be sufficient:

"I understand that I must accurately state the facts. I agree to testify under penalty of perjury. I understand that if I testify falsely, I may be subject to criminal prosecution."

...

I'm not sure of the status of this decision, or if it is now a nation wide standard.