Exodus 20:16 - “You shall not give false testimony against your neighbor.
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What does "Exodus 20:16" mean?
The verse "You shall not give false testimony against your neighbor" from Exodus 20:16 (part of the Ten Commandments) means that you must not lie or spread false information about someone else, especially in a formal setting like a legal proceeding.
Here's a breakdown of the meaning:
"You shall not...": This is a direct command, indicating a prohibition.
"give false testimony...": This refers to lying or providing inaccurate information. "Testimony" often implies a formal statement, such as in a court of law or before an authority. However, the principle extends to any deliberate act of misrepresenting someone's character or actions.
"...against your neighbor.": "Neighbor" broadly refers to anyone in your community, not just the person living next door. This emphasizes that you have a responsibility to be truthful and just in your dealings with all people.
In essence, this commandment forbids:
Lying in court: This is the most direct interpretation, prohibiting perjury.
Spreading rumors or gossip: It discourages the spread of false information that could damage someone's reputation.
Slander and libel: It prohibits making false and damaging statements about someone, whether spoken (slander) or written (libel).
Bearing false witness in general: It promotes honesty and integrity in all your interactions with others.
The verse emphasizes the importance of truthfulness, justice, and protecting the reputation and well-being of others in the community. It is a foundational principle for a just and harmonious society.
Exodus 20:16 - “You shall not give false testimony against your neighbor.
What does "Exodus 20:16" mean?
The verse "You shall not give false testimony against your neighbor" from Exodus 20:16 (part of the Ten Commandments) means that you must not lie or spread false information about someone else, especially in a formal setting like a legal proceeding.
Here's a breakdown of the meaning:
"You shall not...": This is a direct command, indicating a prohibition.
"give false testimony...": This refers to lying or providing inaccurate information. "Testimony" often implies a formal statement, such as in a court of law or before an authority. However, the principle extends to any deliberate act of misrepresenting someone's character or actions.
"...against your neighbor.": "Neighbor" broadly refers to anyone in your community, not just the person living next door. This emphasizes that you have a responsibility to be truthful and just in your dealings with all people.
In essence, this commandment forbids:
Lying in court: This is the most direct interpretation, prohibiting perjury.
Spreading rumors or gossip: It discourages the spread of false information that could damage someone's reputation.
Slander and libel: It prohibits making false and damaging statements about someone, whether spoken (slander) or written (libel).
Bearing false witness in general: It promotes honesty and integrity in all your interactions with others.
The verse emphasizes the importance of truthfulness, justice, and protecting the reputation and well-being of others in the community. It is a foundational principle for a just and harmonious society.