5.6 The Fifth Commandment
You shall not commit murder
5.6.1 IntroductionÂ
The meaning of the Hebrew language in this passage is quite different than its German or English translations! It includes only private killings, not warfare between states! Use of weapons by police and even the job of the executioner are not included! However, it does include accidental deaths, such as in traffic collisions. Neumann, among others, translates the wording as “murder” but even this is imprecise, as the term “murder” often implies maliciousness or intent to enrich oneself.Â
In Hebrew, the term oxcrt al lo tirzach means to murder or to kill. There is no differentiation between premeditated and accidental death. Instead it is a term implying unauthorized killing. The Hebrew term txf is different and means “killing,” for instance in war or during execution.
Neuman z.St. states that the prohibition against the unauthorized (!) taking of human life is in the first position on the Second Tablet of Commandments as there is “nothing worse than killing a fellow human. With him, states the Talmud, a whole world dies.”Â
This commandment is further radicalized by Jesus in Matt 5:27.Â
5.6.2 Sources
Exodus 20
Luther’s Small Catechism
Neumann
For Physician Assisted Suicide discussion below: dghs.de. Note from the translator: Unfortunately, the resources discussed here available only in Germany. While an equivalent English site is found, please speak to your mentor or a trusted physician about what balanced information is available in the language you speak most fluently.  Â
For Abortion discussion below: profamilia.de. Note from the translator: Unfortunately, the website provides resources only in Germany. While an equivalent English site is being found, please speak to your mentor or a trusted physician about what balanced information is available in the language which you speak most fluently.