Abjuring

Abjuring (verb form of abjure) means to solemnly renounce or reject a belief, cause, or claim, often under oath. It signifies a complete and often public disavowal, a turning away from something previously held as true or important. This action implies a conscious decision to abandon former allegiances, principles, or positions, often driven by a change in conviction, revelation of truth, or fear of reprisal. The act of abjuring establishes a clear break, severing ties with the past and embracing a new path. It carries a strong connotation of formality and finality.

Abjuring meaning with examples

• After years of political activism, the dissident, facing imprisonment, was forced into abjuring his revolutionary beliefs in a televised address. This act, though coerced, served the purpose of buying him freedom, leaving many questioning his true loyalties. It was an act of self-preservation, a painful renunciation of his previous life's work. The public saw it as either cowardice or strategic maneuvering.
• The repentant witch, seeking forgiveness, publicly abjuring her pact with dark forces, pledged to dedicate her life to good. This act, witnessed by the whole town, was designed to demonstrate her genuine change of heart and to sever her connection with evil. Her abjuring served as a declaration of her reformed faith, allowing her to be welcomed back by the community.
• The new convert, overcome by his religious experience, chose to abjure his previous atheistic worldview, embracing the teachings of the church. This public testament of faith indicated a complete paradigm shift and signified his commitment to living a life according to God's principles. The act of abjuring served as an assertion of his new identity.
• When faced with overwhelming evidence, the defense lawyer reluctantly abjured his client's fabricated alibi, realizing the deception was futile. He confessed that his original plan was based on flawed assumptions. This abjuring was critical to avoid further legal complications and to maintain his integrity as an officer of the court. The lawyer made the crucial decision to admit the truth.