Catholic Public Domain Version
Deuteronomy 5:18
“And you shall not commit adultery.”
Verse Explanation
A saved explanation for Deuteronomy 5:18.
Plain-language explanation
Deuteronomy 5:18 gives a clear command: do not commit adultery. In simple terms, it calls for faithfulness to one’s spouse and respect for the marriage bond, and it rejects sexual unfaithfulness and betrayal of trust.
Catholic context
Catholics understand this command as part of God’s moral law that protects love, fidelity, and the dignity of persons. Many Catholics also see it as guarding the stability of marriage and the good of families, which are central to God’s plan for human life and love.
Historical background
This verse is part of the “Ten Commandments” given to Israel. In the culture of that time, adultery was not only a private wrong but also a serious threat to covenant loyalty—both to one’s family and to the social fabric. God’s law taught Israel to live differently from surrounding nations.
Reflection
This command invites us to treat intimacy as something entrusted and honored, not used casually. It asks for integrity of heart and fidelity in relationships, especially when temptation tries to break trust.
Practical takeaway
Be faithful in your relationships: choose purity, avoid situations that invite temptation, strengthen honesty and respect, and if you are married, guard your marriage through commitment, communication, and prayer.
Prayer
Lord, help me honor the commitment of love. Teach me purity of heart and fidelity in my relationships. Strengthen me to resist temptation and to choose what is true, faithful, and life-giving. Amen.