Ten Commandments

The text has been released into the public domain by its authors. This applies worldwide.

In quotations of the Ten Commandments (the Decalogue), the Catholic Church uses the division in Deuteronomy rather than Exodus. In the Catechism of the Catholic Church, topics similar to the commandment are explained.

The First Commandment

Idolatry, love of possessions and persons over God, superstition, witchcraft, atheism, apostasy, and agnosticism are forbidden. The faithful and clergy may only worship God and Him alone; they may honor, but not set above God, those of His servants who have set an heroic example of fidelity to God.

The Second Commandment

Cursing, swearing, profanity, obscene speech, rash oaths, blasphemy, and improper use of God's name or the names of the saints are forbidden.

The Third Commandment

The seventh day is to be observed as a day of rest.

The Fourth Commandment

Obedience and respect to lawful authority is required, except in the case where one would be required to commit a sin.

The Fifth Commandment

Murder, suicide, abortion, contraception, euthanasia, and intentional physical injury of oneself or another is prohibited. Unjust wars are also forbidden, and the few cases when a war is undertaken for a just cause are explained.

The Catholic Church teaches that life begins from conception and exists until natural death. Pope Paul VI wrote the encyclical Humanae Vitae on the matter.

The Sixth Commandment

Adultery, rape, fornication, and homosexuality are forbidden.

The Seventh Commandment

Theft, vandalism, and damage to the property of another are prohibited. Employers are required to pay just wages.

The Eighth Commandment

False witness, perjury, detraction, calumny, slander, boasting, bragging, lies, and gossip are forbidden.

The Ninth Commandment

Lust, impure thoughts, and impure desires are forbidden; purity and modesty are required.

The Tenth Commandment

Envy is forbidden.