Which of the Ten Commandments was an instruction not to lie?

The ninth commandment, "You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor," is a crucial guideline that touches not just on lying but on maintaining integrity in relationships. Interestingly, this commandment delineates the expectation of honesty, particularly in legal and community settings. Individual reputation and trust were— and still are— foundational to a harmonious society. Imagine living in a world where misinformation ran rampant. This commandment calls us to consider the weight of our words, urging us to speak truthfully and with kindness.

This prohibition against lying also opens a door to engaging conversations about communication, ethics, and responsibility. Have you noticed that many cultures have similar proverbs about truth-telling? From ancient Greece's insistence on "sophia," meaning wisdom, to various traditions stressing honesty in speech and thought.

Moreover, there's a delightful echo in the New Testament where Jesus refers to himself as "The Way, the Truth, and the Life" (John 14:6). Interestingly, in ancient times, the very notion of a "lie" was often associated with deviousness and a breach of covenant—not just a break in compact, but a wider splintering within community bonds.

So every time we choose truth over deceit, we're participating in an age-old wisdom that binds humanity closer, fostering a spirit of community, trust, and mutual respect. It's a simple commitment that strengthens our human ties and encourages a more sound social fabric.