The Law of Moses

Explore the Ten Commandments

• 1st Commandment
•  2nd Commandment
•  3rd Commandment
•  4th Commandment 
•  5th Commandment
•  6th Commandment
•  7th Commandment
•  8th Commandment
•  9th Commandment
• 10th Commandment

Exodus 20:17 (CJB)

 “You are not to want your neighbor’s house. You are not to want your neighbor’s wife, his male or female servant, his ox or donkey, or anything else that belongs to your neighbor.”  

In the ancient Near Eastern culture, owning land, livestock, and household members was closely tied to a person’s wealth, status, and security. Communities were often small and tightly connected, so envy or coveting a neighbor’s possessions could quickly lead to conflict, jealousy, and social disruption. The tenth commandment’s focus on the desire behind actions—not just the actions themselves—was significant because unchecked coveting could fuel harmful behaviors like theft, adultery, or false testimony. In a society where survival depended on maintaining good relationships and respect for others’ property, guarding against covetousness was essential for communal harmony. This commandment encouraged people to cultivate contentment and trust in God’s provision rather than allowing envy to erode family and community bonds. It also reflected the belief that true righteousness begins in the heart, shaping not only outward behavior but internal attitudes as well. 

A common misconception about the tenth commandment is that it only forbids the act of stealing or adultery, overlooking that it actually addresses the inner desire or coveting that leads to those actions. Many people think that as long as they don’t commit the outward sin, their thoughts or feelings aren’t subject to the command, but this law makes it clear that even envying what belongs to others is wrong. Another misunderstanding is that coveting is harmless or natural, but unchecked desire can fuel destructive behaviors that harm individuals and communities. Clarity comes from recognizing that the tenth commandment calls for purity of heart and contentment, teaching that true obedience to God involves transforming our desires, not just controlling our actions. It highlights that sin begins internally and that maintaining integrity requires vigilance over both what we do and what we long for.