Deuteronomy 5:20 Meaning and Explanation
“Neither shalt thou bear false witness against thy neighbour.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The ninth commandment forbids lying, especially in testimony that harms another.
The Context of Deuteronomy 5:20
The ninth commandment forbids false testimony and lying against others.
What Does Deuteronomy 5:20 Mean?
False testimony destroys justice by leading courts and communities to punish the innocent and reward the guilty. This commandment protects truth as the foundation of legal order and interpersonal trust. Bearing false witness is active harm—deliberately lying against another person—and the law treated it seriously because justice depends on truthful speech. The commandment extends beyond courts to all speech that affects another's reputation or safety.
Truth-telling is essential to covenant community. If words cannot be trusted, relationships fracture and justice becomes impossible. The commandment affirms that what we say matters and that we are accountable for speech that damages others.
Deuteronomy 5:20 in the Original Language
sheker (שֶׁקֶר), 'false witness' — lying or falsehood, especially in testimony meant to harm another person's name or property.
Frequently Asked Questions About Deuteronomy 5:20
What does Deuteronomy 5:20 mean?
The ninth commandment forbids lying, especially in testimony that harms another.
What is the context of Deuteronomy 5:20?
The ninth commandment forbids false testimony and lying against others.