fulfill a vow (to a deity); keep one's promise
Meanings
2 senses · 6 examplesverb
to fulfill a vow made to a god or Buddha; to make offerings in return for divine favor
Refers to a religious practice where a person who made a vow to a deity (e.g., for safety, health, success) later performs a promised act (e.g., burning incense, donating money, holding a ceremony) as a token of gratitude.
The old lady goes to the temple every year to fulfill her vows.
After he returned safely, he immediately burned incense to fulfill his vow as promised.
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This bridge was built by locals as a vow-fulfillment bridge to thank the gods for their protection.
verb
to keep a promise; to honor one's word
Used metaphorically in everyday language. It emphasizes the act of following through on a spoken or implied commitment, not necessarily to a deity.
He said he would treat everyone to a meal, and today he really kept his word.
You must keep the promises you make to your children; you can't break their trust.
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This lavish meal is my way of keeping my promise after you helped me so much last time.