“You shall not murder.
The commandments against murder, theft, and false witness prohibit the deed itself; but the final word against coveting moves from action to desire, proving that the heart must be sanctified, not merely the behavior. Life stands first because it is the basis of human existence, in the life, the image of God is attacked and must be protected.
AI summary
Commenting on Exodus 20:13-17
God singles out murder because it horrifies our natural sense, yet what He really forbids is all unjust violence to anyone. But mark this: a negative command demands its opposite affirmation too. Mere abstention from injury satisfies no one; the Sixth Commandment requires active care for our neighbor's safety and dignity, not merely that we refrain from striking him down.
AI summary
Thou shalt not kill. (i) But love and preserve your brother's life.