Exodus 20:16
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Exodus 20:16
16 Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbour.
Chapter Context
Exodus 20 is a legal covenant chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of obedience, wisdom, grace. 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 20:16
16 Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbour.
Analysis
Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbour.
'Lo ta'aneh' (לֹא תַעֲנֶה) means 'do not answer/testify.' 'False witness' (עֵד שָׁקֶר, ed shaqer) specifically addresses courtroom perjury, though applications extend to all lying. Truth-telling maintains justice—false testimony condemns the innocent and acquits the guilty. God values truth because He IS truth (John 14:6); lies come from Satan, the father of lies (John 8:44). Proverbs repeatedly condemns false witnesses (Proverbs 6:19, 12:17, 19:5). False witnesses crucified Christ (Matthew 26:59-61); false witness stones Stephen (Acts 6:13). The command protects reputation (ninth) as previous commands protect life (sixth), marriage (seventh), and property (eighth). Truth-telling builds community; lying destroys it.
Historical Context
Ancient Near Eastern courts lacked forensic evidence; testimony was crucial. False witness could result in death sentences for the innocent. Deuteronomy 19:16-21 prescribes lex talionis for false witnesses—the penalty they sought to impose on another.
Reflection
- How does false witness destroy justice and community trust?
- In what ways do Christians bear false witness beyond courtroom perjury (gossip, slander, exaggeration)?
Cross-References
- Witness: Exodus 23:1, Proverbs 19:5, Matthew 19:18, Acts 6:13
- Parallel theme: Psalms 15:3, Proverbs 10:18, 11:13, Ephesians 4:31, 1 Timothy 1:10, James 4:11