1. Leviticus 19:16 (ESV)
  2. Exposition

What are the two examples that Moses provides to underscore this command?

Leviticus 19:16 (ESV)

16 You shall not go around as a slanderer among your people, and you shall not stand up against the life of your neighbor: I am the LORD.

Moses provides two specific examples of righteousness. First, it is forbidden to slander or spread gossip, especially in a courtroom setting. The second example is found in the phrase, you shall not stand up against the life of your neighbor. Some believe that this phrase refers to a man who refuses to testify on his neighbour’s behalf even though he knows the truth. Others maintain that the phrase may also refer to giving false testimony against one’s neighbour. In both interpretations, the phrase would be a violation of the ninth commandment (see Exodus 20:16).