Where does the saying as I live and breathe come from?

The saying "as I live and breathe" is an idiomatic expression used to emphasize the speaker's astonishment or disbelief. Its origins can be traced back to the 19th century, often associated with English-speaking cultures. It reflects the importance of life and existence, suggesting that the speaker is genuinely surprised by a situation or encounter. The phrase is typically used in informal contexts to convey strong emotions.