Old Testament
Leviticus 19:18
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
This verse emphasizes the importance of love and forgiveness within the community.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
"Don't take revenge, and don't hold a grudge against your own people. Instead, love your neighbor as yourself. I am the LORD.
Thou shalt not avenge, nor bear any grudge against the children of thy people, but thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself: I am the LORD.
Plain Meaning
God gives Israel three commands in one verse. First, do not take revenge when someone wrongs you. Second, do not hold a grudge — don't keep silent resentment alive against a fellow Israelite. Third, actively love your neighbor the same way you naturally look out for yourself. The closing 'I am the LORD' is God's signature, marking this as His direct command and the reason it carries weight.
Read It in Context
The verse sits at the end of a string of commands about how Israelites must treat one another — no stealing, no lying, no cheating, no talebearing, no hidden hatred (verses 11-17). Verse 17 just forbade hating a brother in your heart. Verse 18 takes that further: don't just avoid hatred, actively love.
The full Clear view adds what to notice, common misreadings, and the passage that best explains this one — for Leviticus 19:18 and any verse in the Bible.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse emphasizes the importance of love and forgiveness within the community. It instructs individuals not to seek revenge or hold grudges against others, particularly those who are part of their own community. Instead, it calls for a deep, selfless love for one’s neighbor, equating this love to the way one should care for oneself. The command is rooted in the character of God, who identifies Himself as the LORD, underscoring the divine authority behind this moral directive. This teaching encourages harmony and compassion, promoting a society where individuals support and uplift one another rather than retaliate or harbor resentment. By loving others as oneself, it fosters a sense of unity and respect, which is essential for a healthy community. This principle is foundational in many ethical teachings and is often cited as a guiding principle for interpersonal relationships.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Leviticus 19:18 to your life
In daily life, we can apply this teaching by choosing to forgive those who wrong us and by actively showing love to our neighbors. Instead of responding to hurt with anger or resentment, we should seek to understand and support one another, fostering a spirit of kindness and cooperation.
Curated for this public verse page. Leviticus Summary · Leviticus 19:18 Meaning
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Leviticus 19:18 mean?
Leviticus 19:18 teaches that individuals should not seek revenge or hold grudges against others, especially within their own community. Instead, it emphasizes the importance of loving one's neighbor as oneself, promoting harmony and compassion.
What is the meaning of 'love your neighbor as yourself' in Leviticus 19:18?
The phrase 'love your neighbor as yourself' means to care for and treat others with the same kindness and respect that you would want for yourself. It encourages selflessness and fosters a supportive community.
How can I apply Leviticus 19:18 in my life?
You can apply Leviticus 19:18 by choosing to forgive those who hurt you and by actively showing kindness to your neighbors. This means responding to conflicts with understanding rather than anger.
Why does Leviticus 19:18 say 'I am the LORD'?
The phrase 'I am the LORD' emphasizes the divine authority behind the command to love and forgive. It signifies that this moral directive is rooted in God's character and expectations for human behavior.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.