Exodus 20:15
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Exodus 20:15
15 Thou shalt not steal.
Chapter Context
Exodus 20 is a legal covenant chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of righteousness, prayer, faith. Written during the Egyptian bondage and wilderness wandering (c. 1446-1406 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Egypt was the dominant superpower with a complex polytheistic religion and a god-king pharaoh.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-26: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it presents the Decalogue (Ten Commandments) as the cornerstone of biblical law. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Exodus and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Exodus 20:15
15 Thou shalt not steal.
Analysis
Thou shalt not steal.
'Lo tignov' (לֹא תִגְנֹב) prohibits taking what belongs to another—property rights are sacred. The command assumes private property is legitimate and God-ordained. Theft assaults God's distribution of resources and neighbor's stewardship. The eighth commandment encompasses fraud, embezzlement, wage-theft, failure to pay debts, and governmental confiscation. Paul says thieves must 'steal no more' but 'labor...that he may have to give' (Ephesians 4:28)—transformation from taking to giving. God Himself is supreme owner; we're stewards. Stealing declares dissatisfaction with God's provision. Conversely, generosity trusts God's abundance. Zacchaeus's repentance manifests in fourfold restitution (Luke 19:8)—true repentance restores what was taken.
Historical Context
Ancient Near Eastern law codes addressed theft with varying penalties. Israel's law required restitution plus penalties, emphasizing restoration over retribution. Kidnapping (man-stealing) carried the death penalty (Exodus 21:16).
Reflection
- How might Christians violate this command beyond obvious theft (fraud, wage issues, time-theft)?
- What does Paul's instruction to give rather than take (Ephesians 4:28) teach about the command's positive application?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Leviticus 19:11, 19:13, Deuteronomy 24:7, Proverbs 11:1, Matthew 19:18, 21:13