Old Testament
Exodus 20:17
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
"You must not covet your neighbor's house. You must not covet your neighbor's wife, his male or female servant, his ox, his donkey, or anything that belongs to your neighbor."
Compare translations
Thou shalt not covet thy neighbour’s house, thou shalt not covet thy neighbour’s wife, nor his manservant, nor his maidservant, nor his ox, nor his ass, nor any thing that is thy neighbour’s.
What Exodus 20:17 means
Plain-English insight for readers
This commandment teaches us not to desire what belongs to others. Coveting can lead to jealousy and discontent, which can harm our relationships and our peace of mind. It’s about recognizing that what we have is enough and appreciating it. When we focus on what others have, we lose sight of our own blessings. This commandment encourages us to cultivate gratitude and contentment in our lives. Instead of longing for our neighbor's possessions, we should celebrate their successes and find joy in our own journey. Ultimately, it’s about fostering a spirit of generosity and kindness rather than envy and greed. By doing so, we create a more harmonious community where everyone can thrive together. This principle can transform our hearts and minds, leading to a more fulfilling life where we value what we have rather than what we lack. It’s a call to live with integrity and respect for others’ lives and belongings, promoting a sense of unity and peace in our interactions with one another.
How to apply Exodus 20:17 to your life
To apply this teaching, focus on appreciating what you have rather than comparing yourself to others. Practice gratitude daily by listing things you are thankful for. Celebrate the achievements of those around you, and find joy in their successes. This mindset shift can lead to a more positive and fulfilling life. Remember, your worth is not defined by what others possess, but by who you are inside and how you treat others. .
Curated for this public verse page. Exodus Summary
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Moses's story: The Ten Commandments (Exodus 20:1–21)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
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.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Jericho
The city of palm trees, whose walls fell in Joshua's day.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Exodus 20:17
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Exodus 20:17
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
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 20:17 mean?
Exodus 20:17 teaches us not to desire what belongs to others, emphasizing the importance of contentment and gratitude. It warns against jealousy and encourages us to appreciate our own blessings instead of coveting our neighbor's possessions.
What is the meaning of coveting in Exodus 20:17?
In Exodus 20:17, coveting refers to an intense desire for someone else's possessions, including their house, spouse, or belongings. This commandment highlights how such desires can lead to negative feelings and harm our relationships.
How can I apply Exodus 20:17 in my life?
To apply Exodus 20:17, practice gratitude by regularly acknowledging what you appreciate in your life. Celebrate the successes of others and shift your focus from comparison to contentment, fostering a positive mindset.
Why is coveting considered wrong in Exodus 20:17?
Coveting is considered wrong in Exodus 20:17 because it can lead to jealousy, discontent, and harmful actions towards others. The commandment encourages respect for others' belongings and promotes a peaceful community.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.