“Thou shalt not covet thy neighbour’s house, thou shalt not covet thy neighbour’s wife, nor his manservant, nor his maidservant, nor his ox, nor his ass, nor any thing that is thy neighbour’s.”
This commandment is the final one of the Ten Commandments, which were given by God to the Israelites through Moses on Mount Sinai. Let’s explore the meaning and significance of this verse in a Bible study.
Understanding Coveting:To covet means to desire or want something intensely, especially something that belongs to someone else. It goes beyond mere admiration or appreciation. Coveting involves having a strong desire to possess or control something that rightfully belongs to another person.
Prohibiting Coveting:God’s commandment directly addresses the inward attitude and desires of the heart. It emphasizes the importance of contentment, gratitude, and respecting the property and relationships of others. Coveting can lead to envy, jealousy, and a disregard for the well-being of others.
The Scope of Coveting:The verse mentions specific things that should not be coveted: a neighbor’s house, spouse, male or female servant, ox, donkey, or anything else that belongs to the neighbor. This comprehensive list represents various aspects of a person’s life and possessions, emphasizing that no area is exempt from the prohibition against coveting.
Coveting and the Human Heart:Jesus later expounded on the commandments, revealing that the root of sinful actions and attitudes begins in the heart (Matthew 15:19). Coveting, being an internal desire, can give rise to actions that violate other commandments, such as stealing or adultery, as it fosters discontentment and a lack of respect for boundaries.
Cultivating Contentment:The commandment against coveting encourages believers to develop a spirit of contentment and gratitude for what God has provided. It teaches us to focus on our own blessings and not be consumed by the possessions or relationships of others. Cultivating contentment fosters a healthy perspective on material possessions and helps guard against sinful desires.
The New Testament Perspective:In the New Testament, Jesus summarized the commandments by emphasizing love for God and love for one’s neighbor (Matthew 22:37-39). This includes treating others with respect, valuing their relationships and possessions, and seeking their welfare rather than selfishly coveting what they have.
In summary, Exodus 20:17 warns against coveting the possessions and relationships of others. It teaches us to cultivate contentment, gratitude, and love for our neighbors. By focusing on our own blessings and treating others with respect, we can live in accordance with this commandment and grow in our relationship with God and one another.
