Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does 'Thou shalt not murder' mean in the Ten Commandments?
A: The commandment 'Thou shalt not murder' (Exodus 20:13) prohibits the unlawful taking of human life. According to Jewish law (Halacha), this refers to intentional, unjustified killing. The Talmud (Sanhedrin 57a) explains that this commandment applies to all humanity, not just Jews, as part of the Noahide Laws. However, killing in self-defense, war (when justified), or by court order (capital punishment in certain cases) is not considered murder under Torah law.
Q: Why is 'Thou shalt not bear false witness' important?
A: Bearing false witness (giving false testimony) is considered a grave sin because it can lead to serious injustices. The Talmud (Shevuot 31a) explains that false testimony can cause financial loss, wrongful punishment, or even death of an innocent person. This commandment upholds the integrity of the justice system and maintains trust within society. Maimonides (Rambam) in Hilchot Edut emphasizes that truthful testimony is fundamental to a functioning legal system.
Q: What is considered stealing according to the Torah?
A: The prohibition 'Thou shalt not steal' includes any unauthorized taking of another's property. Rashi explains that this verse refers specifically to kidnapping (stealing a person), while other forms of theft are also prohibited elsewhere in the Torah. The Talmud (Bava Kamma 79b) discusses various types of theft, including outright robbery, deception in business, and even withholding wages from workers. Jewish law requires not only avoiding theft but also returning stolen property when possible.
Q: How does the Torah define adultery?
A: The prohibition 'Thou shalt not commit adultery' refers specifically to a married woman having relations with a man other than her husband. According to Jewish law (Rambam, Issurei Biah 1:1), this is one of the most severe sexual prohibitions. The Talmud (Sanhedrin 52b) explains the serious consequences of this sin. It's important to note that Jewish law has different categories for other forbidden relationships, which are prohibited by other commandments.
Q: Why are these commandments grouped together in Exodus 20:13?
A: These four commandments are grouped together because they all involve serious offenses against other people. The Midrash (Mechilta) notes that they progress from most severe to less severe: murder (taking a life), adultery (destroying a family), theft (taking property), and false witness (damaging reputation). The Talmud (Makkot 24a) also observes that these commandments represent fundamental principles necessary for maintaining a just and moral society.
Prohibition Against Murder (לֹא תִּרְצָח)
Rashi (Exodus 20:13) explains that the term "תִּרְצָח" refers specifically to intentional murder, as opposed to accidental killing. The Rambam (Hilchot Rotzeach 1:4) elaborates that this prohibition includes not only direct killing but also any action that indirectly causes death, such as withholding help from someone in mortal danger. The Talmud (Sanhedrin 57a) teaches that this mitzvah applies universally to all descendants of Noah, not just Jews.
Prohibition Against Adultery (לֹא תִּנְאָף)
Rashi (Exodus 20:13) defines adultery as relations between a married woman and a man who is not her husband. The Rambam (Hilchot Issurei Bi'ah 1:1) expands this to include all forbidden sexual relationships enumerated in the Torah. The Talmud (Kiddushin 68a) emphasizes the severe consequences of this sin, as it undermines family structure and societal trust.
Prohibition Against Theft (לֹא תִּגְנֹב)
The Talmud (Sanhedrin 86a) distinguishes between two types of theft mentioned in the Torah: kidnapping (stealing a person) and stealing property. Rashi (Exodus 20:13) notes that this commandment refers specifically to kidnapping, while the Rambam (Hilchot Geneivah 1:1) explains that all forms of theft are prohibited. The Midrash (Mechilta on Exodus 20:13) teaches that theft violates the fundamental principle of respecting others' possessions.
Prohibition Against False Witness (לֹא־תַעֲנֶה בְרֵעֲךָ עֵד שָׁקֶר)
Rashi (Exodus 20:13) explains that this commandment prohibits testifying falsely in court against another Jew. The Rambam (Hilchot Edut 17:1) elaborates that this includes any testimony that could cause harm, whether financial, physical, or to one's reputation. The Talmud (Shevuot 31a) emphasizes the severity of this sin, as it can lead to wrongful convictions and disrupt the justice system.