The phrase “love thy neighbor” appears in several places in the Bible. The most famous reference is in the Gospel of Matthew:
- Matthew 22:39 – Jesus replies when asked about the greatest commandment: “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” This is part of the command to love God and love others, and it’s considered one of the central teachings of Jesus.
Another important reference is in the Old Testament, in the book of Leviticus:
- Leviticus 19:18 – “You shall not take vengeance or bear a grudge against the sons of your own people, but you shall love your neighbor as yourself: I am the Lord.”
These verses emphasize the idea of loving others with the same care and respect you have for yourself, which is foundational to many Christian teachings.