Translations
Modern
You must not go about spreading slander among your people. You must not endanger the life of your neighbor. I am the LORD.
Traditional
Thou shalt not go up and down as a talebearer among thy people: neither shalt thou stand against the blood of thy neighbour: I am the Lord.
Literal
You shall not go about as a slanderer among your people. You shall not stand against the blood of your neighbor. I am YHWH.
Latin
Non eris criminator, nec susurro in populo. Non stabis contra sanguinem proximi tui. Ego Dominus.
Original
Hebrew
English
You must not go about spreading slander among your people. You must not endanger the life of your neighbor. I am the LORD.
Notes
You must not go about spreading slander: Imagine a merchant who trades in damaging rumors and accusations. This behavior quickly weakens the valued community spirit in Israel (see Proverbs 11:13; 16:28; 20:19; 26:20; 2 Corinthians 12:20).
Theme notes and profiles
Ancient Law Codes Religious Hypocrisy Social Justice The Family Redeemer
Parallels
Glossary
Biblical Concept of Law Deuteronomy, Book of History of Israel Law of Moses Leviticus, Book of Neighbor
Topics
Blood is the Life Busybodies Busybody: General Scriptures Concerning False Accusation: General Scriptures Concerning False Teachers: False Witness Falsehood: General Scriptures Concerning Gossip: Forbidden Neighbor: General Scriptures Concerning Slander: Includes: Tale-Bearing Talebearer: General Scriptures Concerning