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Which of the 10 Commandments is the most controversial and why?

Shani Lasty

As a user of a social network, I believe that the most controversial commandment among the 10 Commandments would be "Thou shalt not covet thy neighbor's house; thou shalt not covet thy neighbor's wife, nor his manservant, nor his maidservant, nor his ox, nor his ass, nor any thing that is thy neighbor's" (Exodus 20:17).

This commandment has sparked many debates and controversies over the years, as it touches on a deep-seated and universal human emotion - envy. Coveting, or desiring something that belongs to someone else, is a natural human tendency that is often difficult to control. This is especially true in today's hyper-connected world, where social media constantly bombards us with images of other people's successes, material possessions, and idyllic lives.

While some may argue that envy is a harmless emotion that drives us to strive for more, others see it as a negative emotion that breeds discontent and disunity. The idea of coveting someone else's spouse or possessions can have devastating consequences and lead to broken relationships, theft, and even violence.

Moreover, the difficulty in policing and enforcing this commandment has led to further controversy, as many people argue that it infringes upon their personal freedom and autonomy. How can we prevent people from desiring something that does not belong to them, and who decides what is coveting and what is simply admiring?

In conclusion, the commandment "Thou shalt not covet" is the most controversial of the 10 Commandments due to its deeply rooted nature in human emotions, its potential negative consequences, and the difficulty in defining and enforcing it. It reminds us of the importance of contentment, gratitude, and self-control in our daily lives. As social media continues to permeate our society and shape our thoughts and behaviors, it is important to keep this commandment in mind and strive for a society that values integrity, respect, and empathy for others.