Bible verses for children
Wanting what belongs to someone else.
Exodus 20:17
“You shall not covet your neighbor’s house. You shall not covet your neighbor’s wife, nor his male servant, nor his female servant, nor his ox, nor his donkey, nor anything that is your neighbor’s.”
Exodus 20:17 · World English Bible Classic (WEB)
In simple words
What does this verse mean?
Coveting means fixing your heart on having what belongs to someone else. It is more than noticing a lovely thing or wishing for a similar one. This command asks us to respect our neighbours instead of treating their lives and belongings as things to take for ourselves.
You can admire a friend’s bicycle and wish for one of your own. If envy makes you want to take theirs or spoil their happiness, pause and talk about that feeling with someone who can help.
Talk about it
How could you enjoy a friend’s good news even when you wish you had the same thing?
An example from the Bible
View all stories
God Meets Israel at Mount Sinai
Exodus 19:1–25; Exodus 20:18–21
At Mount Sinai, God calls Israel to belong to him, and the people tremble as his holy presence comes near.
Read storyA little more to explore
Bible context & readings +
Exodus 20:17 ends the Ten Commandments by addressing desire. Its list reflects an ancient household, including servants and animals. People are not objects to own; the teaching here is to respect others and resist a desire to seize what is theirs.
Full readings at eBible.org · World English Bible Classic. Read with an adult.A simple prayer +
God, help me be thankful and celebrate good things in other people’s lives. Amen.
A suggested prayer, written for this guide.
