vow
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vow
A solemn promise, often based on religious or moral reasons, to do or not do something specific. It is felt to be very binding and is often made in a formal setting.
Die Ritter legten ein Gelübde ab, die Schwachen zu beschützen.
The knights took a vow to protect the weak.
'Das Gelübde' (vow) belongs to the word family of the verb 'geloben', which means 'to solemnly promise.' The noun describes the result of this action: the solemn promise itself.
Der Mönch legte ein Gelübde des Schweigens ab.
The monk took a vow of silence.
'Ein Gelübde' (a vow) is typically used with the verb 'ablegen' (to take/make). Other common verbs are 'ein Gelübde brechen' (to break a vow) or 'seinem Gelübde treu bleiben' (to remain faithful to one's vow).
Er hat sein Gelübde gebrochen und das Kloster verlassen.
He broke his vow and left the monastery.
This word is very formal and is used mainly in religious, historical, or literary contexts. In everyday life, it is not used for ordinary promises.
In alten Sagen legen Helden oft ein Gelübde ab, bevor sie in den Kampf ziehen.
In old legends, heroes often take a vow before going into battle.
obligation
'die Verpflichtung' and 'das Gelübde' both have to do with something that must be taken seriously and kept. 'Verpflichtung' is the more general word. It can refer to a legal, contractual, moral, or voluntary obligation. 'Gelübde' is a solemn vow, often with religious or moral weight and made in a special setting. The words can be confused because both feel binding. But in everyday life, people usually say 'Verpflichtung'. 'Gelübde' only fits when the promise is very solemn and special.
Im Kloster legte der junge Mann ein feierliches Gelübde ab.
In the monastery, the young man took a solemn vow.
Mila hat morgen eine wichtige Verpflichtung und kann nicht mitkommen.
Mila has an important obligation tomorrow and can't come along.