Old Testament
Leviticus 19:18
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"Don't take revenge, and don't hold a grudge against your own people. Instead, love your neighbor as yourself. I am the LORD.
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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.
What Leviticus 19:18 means
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.
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
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Plain Meaning
God gives Israel three commands in one verse. First, do not take revenge on a fellow Israelite for a wrong done to you. Second, do not hold a grudge against them — do not keep nursing the hurt inside. Third, go further than just letting it go: actively love that neighbor the same way you look out for yourself. The closing phrase "I am the LORD" marks this as God's own authority behind the command.
Read It in Context
This verse sits at the end of a string of commands about how Israelites must treat one another. Verse 17 just told them not to hate a brother in their heart. Verse 18 takes that further: not hating is not enough — they must not seek payback, must not hold onto bitterness, and must love the neighbor positively.
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At a Glance — the Book of Leviticus
- 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 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.
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