What does it mean?

It's an expression of surprise, pretty much identical to the (in my experience) more common "I'll be damned!" or "no sh*t."

Judging by the answers I read before clicking Answer, considered blasphemy by many.

I'm surprised you didn't get the gist from context and tone of voice.

I disagree that it's always a bad surprise -- it's often a reaction to surprising good news, as well.

It sounds like someone is cursing.

I know people think it is taking the name of the Lord in vain, but God isn't His name.

That is why His name is rarely mentioned in the Bible because of that commandment. The Jews were afraid that they would commit the sin of taking His name in vain, so they either called him God, Lord, etc.

God told Moses His name was I AM, and in other places it is said His name is Jehovah. I guess God would know His name better than others. I AM

It's an exclaimation proclaiming that something shocking or unexpected has happened to them. The phrase you mention implies being cursed or having some form of misfortune cast upon one by a higher power; Although some people look down on saying their lord's name in that context.

usually its "well i'll be damned" dont hear god infront of it much, however it just a form of cursing, damnation upon ones self. kinda like saying i could never have guessed, if i bet on it i woulda lost, a lil more out there way to say it though. god damned though would mean damnation by god. (kinda like a dwarf saying, well i'd be a beardless gnome...)

It is not something to be said.

It is calling down a cure on yourself.

The people that say it have no idea of the ramifications of such a statement.

Most people don't have an idea of the magnitude of their statements.

You words have great power. You have no idea.

It is them taking th Lor's name in vain.

What does it mean to the person saying it? It means that may the Lord send me to Hell for not believing, knowing etc.

Whew. It means they're taking God's name in vain, for one thing.

Often is said when they're totally suprised, in a bad way.

They think it's cool but it's not is it? Just really stupid expression. Better off to use the oldy but good Gomer Pyle, "GEE GOLLY!!!!!" LOL At least there is some humour in that.

the third commandment Thou Shall Not Take The Lords Name In Vain.......you know what it means

Hopefully they will learn that God's last name isn't Damned or Damnit.