Item 4 in Seven Noahide Laws
Do Not Murder
Do not intentionally and wrongfully kill another human being.
- Position
- 4
- Form
- Prohibition
- Obligation
- Mandatory
- Wording status
- Editorial paraphrase
- Intended audience
- All humanity according to the rabbinic Noahide framework
- Last reviewed
- 28 June 2026
Names and terminology
Canonical name: Do Not Murder
Source wording
Editorial paraphrase: Do not intentionally and wrongfully kill another human being.
Literal meaning
Do not intentionally and wrongfully kill another human being.
Broader interpretation
This item should be interpreted within the historical purpose, intended audience and wider structure of its parent ethical framework.
Historical context
This item belongs to Seven Noahide Laws. Rabbinic antiquity, drawing on interpretations of the Hebrew Bible; Ancient Jewish and rabbinic communities.
Practical meaning
Practical application requires attention to intention, consent, evidence, rights, foreseeable effects and the needs of all persons or beings affected.
Ethical purpose
To shape conduct, judgment or character in a way consistent with the wider framework.
Exceptions and disputes
Disputes remain over war, execution, abortion, self-defence and protection of others.
Variations across schools or traditions
Wording and interpretation may vary between translations, denominations, schools and historical periods.
Modern application
Modern application should distinguish the historical formulation from present legal, social and ethical conditions.
Criticism and difficult cases
Disputes remain over war, execution, abortion, self-defence and protection of others.
Truth By Reason analysis
Truth By Reason assesses this principle through evidence, intentions, rights, foreseeable consequences, consistency and the treatment of all affected beings.
Ethical themes
Sources
- Sanhedrin 56a Primary source
- The Seven Noahide Laws Commentary / interpretation