Exodus 20:16
What does Exodus 20:16 mean?
A plain-English look at Exodus 20:16 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What Exodus 20:16 means
This commandment forbids bearing false witness against one's neighbor, primarily referring to giving false testimony in legal settings, which could lead to unjust convictions and harm. However, it also extends to any form of lying, slander, or misrepresentation that damages another person's reputation or livelihood. It emphasizes the importance of truthfulness and integrity in all speech. This command is essential for maintaining a just society, protecting individual reputations, and ensuring fairness within legal processes.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbor.
KJV
King James Version · 1611Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbour.
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbor.
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949Do not give false witness against your neighbour.
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862`Thou dost not answer against thy neighbour a false testimony.
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbour.
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbour.
Context
Following the command against stealing, this verse addresses the protection of a person's reputation and the integrity of the judicial system. It logically progresses from material possessions to the equally valuable asset of one's good name and the truthfulness required for justice. This commandment highlights the importance of honest communication and truthfulness in societal interactions, directly leading into the final command which addresses inner attitudes and desires.
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- Matthew 19:18
He saith unto him, Which? And Jesus said, Thou shalt not kill, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness,
- Exodus 23:6
Thou shalt not wrest the justice due to thy poor in his cause.
- Psalms 15:3
He that slandereth not with his tongue, Nor doeth evil to his friend, Nor taketh up a reproach against his neighbor;
- Proverbs 10:18
He that hideth hatred is of lying lips; And he that uttereth a slander is a fool.
- Acts 6:13
and set up false witnesses, who said, This man ceaseth not to speak words against this holy place, and the law:
- Proverbs 11:13
He that goeth about as a tale-bearer revealeth secrets; But he that is of a faithful spirit concealeth a matter.
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