Exodus 20:14
Thou shalt not commit adultery.
Exodus 20:14
This command targets the sanctity of marriage and sexual fidelity. Ancient cultures often practiced marital instability and polygamy or sexual exploitation; Israel’s law upholds a standard for exclusive, covenantal fidelity within marriage. The prohibition against adultery protects the vulnerable spouse, preserves family integrity, and fosters trust within the community. The term for adultery in Hebrew points to sexual relations with someone who is currently bound to another in marriage, underscoring the seriousness of vows made before God and community. The command also invites a broader ethic: faithfulness in personal life reflects faithfulness to God. The surrounding laws emphasize property and family as social foundations; adultery threatens the lineage and inheritance that God intends for his people.
Adultery is a breach of covenant fidelity, mirroring Israel’s flirtation with other “gods” and ways of life. The command points to a deeper spiritual reality: fidelity to God is displayed in faithful, trustworthy relationships. Jesus reframes the issue in the Sermon on the Mount, showing that adultery also begins in the heart with lustful desire, expanding the ethical horizon from actions to thoughts. The verse thus foreshadows the New Covenant emphasis on inner righteousness and relational integrity.
Practical steps include cultivating healthy boundaries, transparent communication within marriage, and accountability with trusted mentors or counselors. Couples can invest in relational habits—weekly check-ins, conflict resolution skills, and shared spiritual practices. For single individuals, honoring this command means pursuing purity, respecting others, and avoiding situations that could lead to compromise. Churches can support by teaching healthy sexuality, providing marriage enrichment programs, and offering pastoral care for couples in crisis. The core wisdom remains: faithfulness builds trust, family stability, and community flourishing.
Cross-References: Matthew 5:27-28; Proverbs 6:32; 1 Corinthians 6:18-20; Hebrews 13:4; Malachi 2:14-16