Leviticus 19:11
Ye shall not steal, neither deal falsely, neither lie one to another.
Leviticus 19:11 (KJV)
Context
Leviticus 19 belongs to the Holiness Code, a collection of laws God gave to Israel through Moses. These commands call God’s people to reflect His holy character in daily life. This verse stands among ethical instructions about fairness, honesty, and love for one’s neighbor.
Meaning
The first command, “Ye shall not steal,” echoes the eighth commandment (Exodus 20:15). It protects the property and rights of others. In Hebrew, the plural form includes not only the thief but also the person who sees a theft and stays silent, making him complicit. The command also connects to earlier laws about leaving grain for the poor; depriving them of what God provided is a form of robbery.
The second command, “neither deal falsely,” forbids dishonest business practices, fraud, and deceit. It covers any act that takes advantage of another person through trickery. God’s people must be transparent and fair in all transactions.
The third command, “neither lie one to another,” forbids falsehood in relationships. The Hebrew word for “lie” (sheker) carries the sense of deception and betrayal. Lying breaks trust and damages the foundation of community life. These three prohibitions are not isolated rules; they guard the health of the whole community.
Biblical connections
These commands are rooted in God’s character and His desire for His people to reflect His holiness. They are grounded in love for one’s neighbor, a theme that runs throughout Leviticus 19. Jesus affirmed the enduring moral law, and the New Testament calls believers to put away falsehood and speak truthfully (Ephesians 4:25). The command also points to Christ, who is the truth, and who calls His followers to be people of truth and integrity.
Application
These three commands apply directly to everyday life. Respect for others means not taking what belongs to them, whether property, time, or reputation. Honesty and integrity should guide business dealings, personal relationships, and ordinary conversations. Truthfulness builds trust and promotes healthy relationships.
Respect for others: honor the rights and possessions of others, practicing fairness and empathy.
Honesty and integrity: conduct all affairs with transparency and uprightness.
Truthfulness: speak truthfully and avoid falsehood, knowing that honesty builds trust.
Reflection
The ultimate fulfillment of this law is found in a heart transformed by God’s grace. When God changes a person’s heart, he or she is enabled to love neighbors as themselves. This verse calls believers to a positive standard of integrity, truthfulness, and fairness, reflecting the character of Christ in all they do.
