Exodus 20:13
What does Exodus 20:13 mean?
A plain-English look at Exodus 20:13 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What Exodus 20:13 means
This commandment, simply stated, prohibits murder. It is a foundational moral law that upholds the sanctity of human life, recognizing that every individual bears the image of God. This command condemns the unlawful taking of another person's life, whether intentionally or through negligence. It serves as a bedrock principle for justice and civil order within society, protecting each member of the community from malicious harm and underscoring the high value God places on human existence.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000Thou shalt not kill.
KJV
King James Version · 1611Thou shalt not kill.
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901Thou shalt not kill.
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949Do not put anyone to death without cause.
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862`Thou dost not murder.
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752Thou shalt not kill.
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890Thou shalt not kill.
Context
Directly following the command to honor parents, this verse introduces the protection of human life, one of the most fundamental societal laws. It progresses from family order to the broader well-being of the community. This straightforward prohibition against killing establishes a core ethical boundary, laying the groundwork for a just society where life is respected, and setting the stage for subsequent commands that protect other aspects of human well-being.
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- Exodus 21:14
And if a man come presumptuously upon his neighbor, to slay him with guile; thou shalt take him from mine altar, that he may die.
- Genesis 4:8
And Cain told Abel his brother. And it came to pass, when they were in the field, that Cain rose up against Abel his brother, and slew him.
- Galatians 5:21
envyings, drunkenness, revellings, and such like; of which I forewarn you, even as I did forewarn you, that they who practise such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God.
- Romans 13:9
For this, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not kill, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not covet, and if there be any other commandment, it is summed up in this word, namely, Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself.
- James 2:11
For he that said, Do not commit adultery, said also, Do not kill. Now if thou dost not commit adultery, but killest, thou art become a transgressor of the law.
- Leviticus 24:21
And he that killeth a beast shall make it good: and he that killeth a man shall be put to death.
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