Old Testament
Exodus 20:13
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
"You must not murder.
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Thou shalt not kill.
What Exodus 20:13 means
Plain-English insight for readers
The commandment 'You must not murder' emphasizes the value of human life. It calls us to respect and protect the lives of others, recognizing that each person is created with dignity. This command goes beyond just the act of killing; it includes harboring hatred or anger towards others. It challenges us to cultivate love and compassion instead of violence. By understanding this commandment, we learn the importance of resolving conflicts peacefully and valuing every individual. It serves as a reminder that our actions and words can either uplift or harm those around us. Ultimately, this commandment encourages us to reflect on our relationships and strive for harmony in our communities, fostering a culture of respect and understanding. Living by this principle can transform our interactions and lead to a more peaceful society, where life is cherished and protected at all costs. In essence, this commandment is about choosing life and love over destruction and hate, guiding us toward a more compassionate existence.
How to apply Exodus 20:13 to your life
To apply this commandment, we should actively seek to resolve conflicts without resorting to anger or violence. Practice kindness and understanding in your daily interactions. Reflect on how your words and actions impact others, and strive to promote peace in your community. Choose to uplift rather than harm those around you. Every small act of kindness counts towards a more loving world.
Curated for this public verse page. Exodus Summary
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Illustrated scene from Moses's story: The Ten Commandments (Exodus 20:1–21)
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Moses
Photo: Diego Delso, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 3.0. Source. Location: Tell es-Sultan, Jericho, West Bank. Resized for the web.
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Jericho
The city of palm trees, whose walls fell in Joshua's day.
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At a Glance — the Book of Exodus
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Exodus 20:13 mean?
Exodus 20:13 means that we should not take the life of another person. It emphasizes the importance of valuing human life and encourages us to foster love and compassion instead of violence.
What is the meaning of 'You must not murder' in Exodus 20:13?
'You must not murder' in Exodus 20:13 highlights the sanctity of life and calls for respect towards others. It goes beyond just killing to include avoiding hatred and anger.
How can I apply Exodus 20:13 in my life?
You can apply Exodus 20:13 by choosing to resolve conflicts without violence and by practicing kindness in your daily interactions. Focus on uplifting others and promoting peace in your community.
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