2. Do not commit adultery: Misguided love. Yes, we must be loving, kind and respectful to everyone, but love isn’t a carte blanche that justifies all. There are guidelines we must follow. Sometimes, faithful love – to a child, student, member of the opposite gender, etc. – entails being severe and abstaining from exhibiting love.
3. Do not steal (kidnap): [1] The essence of kidnapping is utilizing another for personal gain. Focus on being a real friend; don’t be in the relationship only for your own benefit. Be there for your friend even when it is uncomfortable or inconvenient for you.
4. Do not bear false witness against your neighbor: Every person is a judge. We are constantly observing our acquaintances and friends, judging their every word and action. We must be wary of a tendency to “bear false witness” in the process of issuing our personal verdict. We must always give the benefit of the doubt, taking into consideration various factors of which we may be unaware, ensuring that we don’t reach an erroneous judgment.
5. Do not covet your neighbor’s possessions: Be happy for your neighbor’s good fortune! All the above-mentioned exercises pale in comparison with this final message imparted by the Ten Commandments. After you’ve trained yourself to intellectually respect your fellows and consistently view them in a positive light, now it’s time to get your heart involved. Love them. Be happy with their accomplishments. Share their sorrow during their difficult moments. Don’t be afraid of getting emotionally involved – that’s what family is all about!
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[1] Popularly translated as “Thou shall not steal,” the sages explain that this prohibition is actually against kidnapping – as opposed to the prohibition against stealing, which is mentioned in Vayikra 19:11.