Deuteronomy 5:21

“Neither shalt thou desire thy neighbour’s wife, neither shalt thou covet thy neighbour’s house, his field, or his manservant, or his maidservant, his ox, or his ass, or any thing that is thy neighbour’s.”

Context

Deuteronomy is the fifth book of the Bible and is part of the Pentateuch, which includes the first five books of the Old Testament. It primarily consists of Moses’ speeches to the Israelites before they entered the Promised Land. In this particular passage, Moses is recounting the giving of the Ten Commandments by God to the Israelites at Mount Sinai.

Meaning and Interpretation:

Deuteronomy 5:21 addresses the issue of coveting or desiring something that belongs to someone else. It emphasizes the importance of contentment, gratitude, and respect for other people’s possessions and relationships. The commandment begins by instructing against desiring one’s neighbor’s wife, underscoring the sacredness and exclusivity of the marital relationship and promoting faithfulness within marriage. It then lists a neighbor’s house, field, manservant, maidservant, ox, ass, or any other possession, broadening the scope to material goods. The passage teaches believers to be content with what they have rather than longing for what others possess, warning against jealousy, envy, and greed that lead to discontent.

Application:

Cultivate gratitude by recognizing God’s blessings in your life and being content with what He has provided. Practice contentment by avoiding comparisons with others and making the best use of your own resources and talents. Show respect for the relationships and possessions of others, honoring the sanctity of marriage and the property of neighbors. Seek spiritual treasures rather than pursuing worldly possessions, storing up treasures in heaven. By living out these principles, believers can develop a heart of contentment, gratitude, and respect, honoring God’s commandments and pleasing Him.