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Leviticus 19:16

Made Simple — Modern English Translation

Translated by Verse Made Simple Editorial
KJV ORIGINAL
Thou shalt not go up and down as a talebearer among thy people: neither shalt thou stand against the blood of thy neighbour: I am the LORD.
Close to the original. Clear modern English.
✦ MADE SIMPLE

Don't go around spreading gossip among your people, and don't do anything that could harm or endanger your neighbor's life. I am the LORD.

⚡ THE BOTTOM LINE

God is commanding His people not to spread gossip or do anything that could harm their neighbors, because He values both truth and human life.

📚 Historical Context

In the time of Moses, God was giving the Israelites a set of laws through the book of Leviticus to guide them in living as a holy people in their community, especially as they journeyed through the wilderness after escaping Egypt. This verse specifically warns against gossiping, which could sow discord in a tightly knit society where trust was essential for survival, and against ignoring threats to a neighbor's life, emphasizing the value of mutual protection. These commands were part of God's covenant to foster justice and unity among His people.

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