The answer is: Build battlement around the roof

Deut 22:8

When constructing a new home, it seems like the ancient Israelites had more than just curb appeal in mind; they had a bit of safety and social responsibility woven into their building codes! The command to construct a battlement—or a parapet—around the roof was both practical and integral to their communal life. Roofs were often used as living spaces, perfect for evening gatherings or to escape the heat below. A battlement would prevent accidents—like someone tumbling from the edges, which would have carried significant implications, socially and legally.

In Deuteronomy 22:8, this command draws attention to caring for one’s neighbor. The idea is that you wouldn’t want someone to stumble due to neglect on your part. This can remind us of the many calls throughout Scripture to love and protect one another, illustrating how even something as mundane as home-building can be an act of community love.

This command echoes wisdom shared in Proverbs about the foolishness of recklessness: "He who conceals a transgression seeks love" (Proverbs 17:9). The biblical text careens through many realms of human activity, teaching not only piety but practical wisdom, and underlines that living spiritually involves a deep consideration of how our actions impact those around us. Next time you’re on a rooftop, just remember the Israelites might have thrown a little gathering up there just to ensure no one haphazardly fell off the edge!