What is the meaning of Leviticus 19:16? You must not go about spreading slander among your people Leviticus 19:16a says, “You must not go about spreading slander among your people.” The command is plain: resist every urge to pass along unverified, malicious, or partial information that tears another down. • Slander assaults God-given dignity. Proverbs 10:18 calls it “foolish,” while James 4:11 warns believers not to “speak evil” of one another. • The prohibition protects unity. Psalm 133:1 celebrates brethren dwelling together in harmony; slander fractures that harmony. • Words can murder reputations. Exodus 23:1 forbids a “false report,” linking lying tongues with unjust bloodshed. • New-covenant consistency. Ephesians 4:29 commands believers to speak only what “is good for building up,” showing God’s character never changes. Living this verse means: – Pause before passing on news. – Verify facts lovingly, or stay silent. – Confront a sinning brother privately (Matthew 18:15) rather than whisper behind his back. You must not endanger the life of your neighbor Leviticus 19:16b continues, “You must not endanger the life of your neighbor.” God moves from words to actions, insisting we safeguard one another’s wellbeing. • Active protection. Deuteronomy 22:8 commands building a parapet on a roof—an ancient safety railing—so no one falls. Love takes initiative to prevent harm. • Accountability for negligence. Exodus 21:29 holds an owner liable when a dangerous ox is left unrestrained. Modern parallels include reckless driving or ignoring unsafe conditions at work. • Love rescues. The parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:30-37) illustrates neighbor-love that crosses social barriers to save a life. Practical outworking: – Speak up against bullying or abuse. – Support policies that value every life, from the unborn (Psalm 139:13-16) to the elderly (Proverbs 23:22). – Offer help—first aid, a meal, a spare room—whenever a neighbor’s life is threatened. I am the LORD The verse concludes, “I am the LORD.” God stakes these commands on His own character. • Divine authority. The same voice that thundered at Sinai (Exodus 20:2) now addresses everyday relationships. Ignoring these commands is defying the Lord Himself. • Moral anchor. Because God is holy (Leviticus 19:2) and life-giving, His people must mirror His holiness and life-preserving love. • Covenant motivation. John 14:15 records Jesus saying, “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments.” Obedience flows from grateful covenant love, not mere rule-keeping. summary Leviticus 19:16 highlights two sides of neighbor love—guarding reputations and guarding lives—both anchored in the authority of the LORD. Avoid gossip, speak truth that builds up, and take tangible steps to protect others from harm. In doing so, we honor the God who values truth, preserves life, and calls His people to reflect His holy character. |
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