Old Testament
Deuteronomy 5:21
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"You must not desire your neighbor's wife. You must not covet your neighbor's house, his field, his male servant, his female servant, his ox, his donkey, or anything that belongs to your neighbor."
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Neither shalt thou desire thy neighbour’s wife, neither shalt thou covet thy neighbour’s house, his field, or his manservant, or his maidservant, his ox, or his ass, or any thing that is thy neighbour’s.
What Deuteronomy 5:21 means
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse teaches us about the importance of contentment and respect for others' possessions. It warns against the desire to take what belongs to someone else, whether it's their spouse or their belongings. Coveting can lead to harmful actions and broken relationships. Instead of focusing on what others have, we should appreciate our own lives and what we possess. This commandment encourages us to cultivate gratitude and satisfaction with our own circumstances. By avoiding envy, we can foster healthier relationships and a more peaceful community. Ultimately, this principle helps us to live harmoniously with our neighbors and to value what we have rather than longing for what we do not. It reminds us that true happiness comes from within, not from comparing ourselves to others. Embracing this mindset can lead to a more fulfilling and joyful life, free from the burdens of jealousy and greed. It’s about finding joy in our own journey and respecting the journeys of those around us.
How to apply Deuteronomy 5:21 to your life
To apply this teaching, focus on appreciating what you have rather than what others possess. Practice gratitude daily by listing things you are thankful for. When feelings of envy arise, redirect your thoughts to your own blessings. This shift can improve your mindset and relationships significantly. Cultivating contentment leads to a happier life overall, free from jealousy and resentment. “Be happy with what you have.” “Value your own journey.”
Curated for this public verse page. Deuteronomy Summary
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Illustrated scene from Moses's story: The Ten Commandments (Deuteronomy 5:1–33)
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Moses
Photo: U.S. Army photo by Spc. Samantha R. Ciaramitaro, via DVIDS and Wikimedia Commons. License: Public domain in the United States — U.S. federal-government work. Source. Location: Great Ziggurat, Ur Archaeological City (Tell el-Mukayyar), Dhi Qar Governorate, Iraq. Resized for the web.
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Ur
The city Abram's family left to travel toward Canaan.
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At a Glance — the Book of Deuteronomy
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites about to enter the Promised Land
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Deuteronomy 5:21 mean in simple terms?
Deuteronomy 5:21 teaches us not to desire or covet what belongs to others, including their spouse or possessions. It emphasizes the importance of being content with what we have and respecting the belongings of our neighbors. This commandment warns that coveting can lead to negative actions and damaged relationships, encouraging us instead to appreciate our own lives and cultivate gratitude.
How can I apply the message of Deuteronomy 5:21 in my life?
To apply the message of Deuteronomy 5:21, focus on gratitude for what you have rather than envying others. Start a daily gratitude practice by listing things you appreciate in your life. When feelings of jealousy arise, consciously shift your thoughts to your own blessings. This practice can enhance your mindset and relationships, leading to a more fulfilling life free from resentment.
Why is coveting considered wrong in Deuteronomy 5:21?
Coveting is considered wrong in Deuteronomy 5:21 because it can lead to harmful actions, such as dishonesty or betrayal, and can damage relationships. When we focus on what others have, we may become dissatisfied with our own lives, fostering feelings of jealousy and resentment. The verse encourages us to cultivate contentment and respect for others, promoting healthier interactions and a more peaceful community.
What are the consequences of coveting according to this verse?
The consequences of coveting, as highlighted in Deuteronomy 5:21, can include strained relationships, feelings of dissatisfaction, and potentially harmful actions towards others. Coveting can lead to jealousy, resentment, and a lack of appreciation for our own lives. By avoiding envy and focusing on gratitude, we can foster healthier relationships and a more harmonious community.
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