Exodus 20:14
What does Exodus 20:14 mean?
A plain-English look at Exodus 20:14 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What Exodus 20:14 means
This commandment strictly forbids adultery, prohibiting sexual relations between a married person and someone who is not their spouse. It upholds the sanctity of marriage and the institution of the family, which are foundational to a stable society. Adultery is a betrayal of covenant vows, leading to broken trust, emotional devastation, and societal disorder. This command protects the purity of marital bonds and the lineage of families, emphasizing faithfulness within the most intimate human relationship.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000Thou shalt not commit adultery.
KJV
King James Version · 1611Thou shalt not commit adultery.
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901Thou shalt not commit adultery.
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949Do not be false to the married relation.
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862`Thou dost not commit adultery.
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752Thou shalt not commit adultery.
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890Thou shalt not commit adultery.
Context
Following the command against murder, this verse addresses the sanctity of marriage and family purity. It logically extends the protection of life to the protection of the family unit, which is essential for healthy societal function. This commandment underscores God's concern for moral purity within relationships, framing the covenant in terms of commitment and faithfulness within the community, before moving to the protection of property and reputation.
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- 2 Samuel 11:4
And David sent messengers, and took her; and she came in unto him, and he lay with her (for she was purified from her uncleanness); and she returned unto her house.
- Proverbs 6:24
To keep thee from the evil woman, From the flattery of the foreigner’s tongue.
- Jeremiah 5:8
they were as fed horses roaming at large; every one neighed after his neighbor’s wife.
- Revelation 21:8
But for the fearful, and unbelieving, and abominable, and murderers, and fornicators, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, their part shall be in the lake that burneth with fire and brimstone; which is the second death.
- Mark 10:11
And he saith unto them, Whosoever shall put away his wife, and marry another, committeth adultery against her:
- Proverbs 7:18
Come, let us take our fill of love until the morning; Let us solace ourselves with loves.
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