Neighbor
Summary
The concept of neighbor in Scripture encompasses both those living nearby and, in Jesus' teaching, anyone in need whom one is able to help.
☩In the Law
The Mosaic law commanded, 'Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself,' establishing the duty of care and goodwill toward others. Various laws protected neighbors from false witness, theft, covetousness, and other wrongs. The law also required leaving gleanings for the poor and treating hired workers fairly.
☩Jesus' Teaching
Jesus expanded the understanding of 'neighbor' beyond ethnic and geographic boundaries. When a lawyer asked, 'Who is my neighbor?' Jesus told the parable of the Good Samaritan, teaching that one's neighbor is anyone in need. The command to love one's neighbor as oneself is called 'the second great commandment.'
Related Verses26 mentions
See Also
References
- 1.John McClintock and James Strong, "Neighbor," in Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature, vol. VI (Harper & Brothers, 1867–1887).