Did Yeshua Know and Teach the 10th Commandment Found in the Moses Scroll?

Did Yeshua teach all of the Ten Commandments? Most would quickly affirm this. However, what if the 10th Commandment in the Moses Scroll differs from the one commonly known today? Linked to Moses Shapiro’s controversial 19th-century discovery, The Moses Scroll claims that the 10th Commandment states, “Do not hate your brother in your heart.” If this is true, it directly connects to Yeshua’s profound teachings on love, forgiveness, and reconciliation.

The Moses Scroll and the 10th Commandment: Do Not Hate Your Brother In Your Heart

The Moses Scroll, a text reportedly found in the 19th century, presents a version of the Ten Commandments distinct from the versions in Deuteronomy and the version in Exodus, which differ from each other. While most traditional versions list “You shall not covet” as the 10th Commandment, the Moses Scroll states:

“Do not hate your brother in your heart.”

This commandment closely aligns with Leviticus 19:17, which says, “You shall not hate your brother in your heart. You shall surely rebuke your neighbor, and not bear sin because of him.” This verse reveals that hatred itself is a sin, something that Yeshua also taught. Furthermore, Leviticus 19 contains multiple commandments about honoring parents, keeping the Sabbath, avoiding idolatry, and loving one’s neighbor—mirroring many of the Ten Commandments found in Exodus and Deuteronomy. This suggests that Leviticus 19 may represent yet another version of the Ten Commandments, reinforcing the importance of love as the foundation of God’s law.

Yeshua’s Teachings Against Hating Your Brother

Yeshua spoke forcefully against hatred and unforgiveness. In Matthew 5:22, He warns, “But I say to you that whoever is angry with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgment.” This is the very principle found in the Moses Scroll’s 10th Commandment.

Hatred is not merely an emotion; it is a spiritual poison that leads to sin and separation from God. 1 John 3:15 echoes this truth: “Whoever hates his brother is a murderer, and you know that no murderer has eternal life abiding in him.” Yeshua’s words show that hatred in the heart is as destructive as outward sin, and it is condemned in the same way.

Love as the Fulfillment of the Law

Yeshua summarized the entire Torah in two commands:

“You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” (Matthew 22:37-39)

If the Moses Scroll accurately preserves the 10th Commandment, it would further confirm that Yeshua was restoring the true intent of God’s law. Hatred for one’s brother violates this fundamental principle of love.

Yeshua’s Example of Love and Forgiveness

Throughout His ministry, Yeshua exemplified the importance of love and forgiveness. He taught His disciples to forgive, not just once, but “seventy times seven” (Matthew 18:22). This radical forgiveness reflects God’s mercy and the command to “not hate your brother in your heart.”

Additionally, Yeshua commanded: “Love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you” (Matthew 5:44). Such teachings reinforce the truth that hatred has no place in the heart of a follower of Yeshua. Luke 6:27-28 further affirms this: “But I say to you who hear: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, and pray for those who mistreat you.”

The Spiritual Consequences of Hating Your Brother

Hating one’s brother is not merely a personal failing; it has severe spiritual consequences. It destroys relationships, creates division, and hinders our relationship with God. 1 John 4:20 declares, “If someone says, ‘I love God,’ and hates his brother, he is a liar; for he who does not love his brother whom he has seen, how can he love God whom he has not seen?”

Hatred is the work of the enemy. Satan desires to sow discord among believers, for a house divided against itself cannot stand (Mark 3:25). If the Moses Scroll’s 10th Commandment is accurate, it means that God’s law always included a direct command against harboring hatred. This would mean Yeshua was not introducing a new teaching but restoring an ancient truth long buried under tradition.

The Commandment of Love in the Early Church

The apostles carried forward Yeshua’s commandment of love. James calls it the “royal law according to the Scripture”: “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” This principle was not new but a foundational truth that was emphasized throughout Scripture. Yeshua, as the fulfillment of the Torah, reinforced this commandment to restore God’s people to the true way of righteousness.

Overcoming Hatred with Love

If the Moses Scroll’s 10th Commandment truly reflects the original words given to Moses, then it means Yeshua was teaching a commandment that had been overlooked or misinterpreted over time. This commandment aligns with the heart of God’s message from Genesis to Revelation: Love is the key to righteousness.

Believers today must take Yeshua’s words seriously. Proverbs 10:12 says, “Hatred stirs up strife, but love covers all sins.”

When we choose love over hatred, we walk in obedience to Yeshua’s greatest command.

Conclusion

The Moses Scroll’s 10th Commandment, “Do not hate your brother in your heart,” aligns perfectly with Yeshua’s teachings. Whether or not this commandment was originally part of the Torah, its truth is undeniable. Hatred leads to sin, division, and destruction, while love reflects the very heart of God.

As followers of Yeshua, we must reject all forms of hatred and embrace His command to love. For as John 13:35 declares, “By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.” Let us, therefore, obey Yeshua by choosing love in all circumstances, living out the true spirit of God’s commandments in our daily lives.

Next Steps

To explore the fascinating history of the Moses Scroll, read The Moses Scroll by Ross K. Nichols. This book delves into the origins. It covers controversies. It also explores the implications of what may be the oldest version of the Ten Commandments known today. Available on Amazon, it offers a compelling look at this ancient text. You can draw your own conclusion about its connection to the teachings of Yeshua. Don’t miss the opportunity to examine this remarkable discovery for yourself.

If you found this discussion insightful, be sure to check out my other articles on faith, health, and wholesome recipes. I explore biblical teachings, practical ways to incorporate faith into daily life, and healthy living tips, including nourishing recipes that align with a natural, God-honoring lifestyle. Whether you’re looking to deepen your spiritual journey, improve your well-being, or find new ways to enjoy healthy, homemade meals, there’s something for you. Stay connected and continue exploring these important topics!

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