Exodus 20:15
What does Exodus 20:15 mean?
A plain-English look at Exodus 20:15 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What Exodus 20:15 means
This commandment strictly prohibits stealing, which is the unlawful taking of another person's property without their consent. It upholds the right to private ownership and the dignity of honest labor. Stealing violates trust, creates injustice, and disrupts the social order, sowing discord within the community. This command ensures that individuals can possess and enjoy the fruits of their work without fear of deprivation, promoting honest dealings and respect for others' possessions.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000Thou shalt not steal.
KJV
King James Version · 1611Thou shalt not steal.
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901Thou shalt not steal.
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949Do not take the property of another.
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862`Thou dost not steal.
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752Thou shalt not steal.
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890Thou shalt not steal.
Context
This verse follows the commandments protecting life and marriage, now moving to the protection of personal property. It establishes a core principle for economic and social justice within the community. This command is crucial for maintaining order and trust among the Israelites, ensuring that their daily interactions are governed by integrity and respect for individual possessions, setting the stage for protecting reputation and inward desires.
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- Luke 3:13
And he said unto them, Extort no more than that which is appointed you.
- Leviticus 6:1
And Jehovah spake unto Moses, saying,
- Proverbs 11:1
A false balance is an abomination to Jehovah; But a just weight is his delight.
- Job 20:19
For he hath oppressed and forsaken the poor; He hath violently taken away a house, and he shall not build it up.
- Leviticus 19:13
Thou shalt not oppress thy neighbor, nor rob him: the wages of a hired servant shall not abide with thee all night until the morning.
- 1 Thessalonians 4:6
that no man transgress, and wrong his brother in the matter: because the Lord is an avenger in all these things, as also we forewarned you and testified.
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