(The Lord speaking is red text)
Neither shalt thou steal.
"'Do not steal.
You shall not steal.
Neither shalt thou steal.
Neither shalt thou steal{H1589}.
Deuteronomy 5:19 is part of the second reading of the Ten Commandments in the book of Deuteronomy. The historical context of this verse is the covenant renewal at Moab, where Moses reiterates the law to the new generation of Israelites before they enter the Promised Land. The commandment "Neither shalt thou steal" is the eighth commandment, which reflects a fundamental principle of moral law that upholds the sanctity of personal property and discourages theft.
Themes in this verse include:
1. **Respect for Property**: Upholding the right to own and the inviolability of personal property, which is essential for a stable and just society.
2. **Honesty and Integrity**: Encouraging honesty and integrity in interpersonal relationships and transactions.
3. **Social Order**: The commandment contributes to social order by prohibiting actions that would destabilize communal life and trust.
4. **Personal Responsibility**: It emphasizes personal responsibility in maintaining the welfare of the community by respecting others' belongings.
5. **Theological Foundation**: The commandments are presented as directives from God, establishing a moral code that reflects divine will and the values of a society in right relationship with God and each other.
This commandment, along with the others, was revolutionary in its time, providing a moral framework for the Israelite society that contrasted with the practices of many surrounding cultures in the ancient Near East.
*This commentary is produced by Microsoft/WizardLM-2-8x22B AI model
Note: H = Hebrew (OT), G = Greek (NT)