King James Version

What Does Exodus 20:15 Mean?

Exodus 20:15 in the King James Version says “Thou shalt not steal.” — study this verse from Exodus chapter 20 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“Thou shalt not steal.”

Exodus 20:15 · KJV

Context

13

Thou shalt not kill.

14

Thou shalt not commit adultery.

15

Thou shalt not steal.

16

Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbour.

17

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.

Read Exodus 20 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
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.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural 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 Questions

  1. How might Christians violate this command beyond obvious theft (fraud, wage issues, time-theft)?
  2. What does Paul's instruction to give rather than take (Ephesians 4:28) teach about the command's positive application?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 2 words
לֹ֣֖א1 of 2
H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

תִּֿגְנֹֽ֔ב׃2 of 2

“Thou shalt not steal”

H1589

to thieve (literally or figuratively); by implication, to deceive

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Exodus. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Exodus 20:15 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Exodus 20:15 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Romans 13:9Ephesians 4:28Leviticus 19:11Leviticus 19:13Matthew 19:181 Corinthians 6:10

Test Your Knowledge

Exodus 20 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapterExodus Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

Continue Your Study

Read Exodus 20 with CommentaryAll Exodus ChaptersComplete Exodus QuizBible CharactersNave's Topical BibleAll Bible Quizzes