Understanding the 10 Commandments in the Quran and Bible
- Ziyad Bulbulia
- 1 day ago
- 2 min read
The 10 Commandments are widely known as a cornerstone of biblical teaching, but many may be surprised to learn that the Quran contains similar moral guidance. These commandments reflect universal principles that have been revealed to prophets across time, providing ethical guidance for humanity.
The 10 Commandments in the Quran
The Quran presents two passages that closely resemble the 10 Commandments. One of the most detailed lists appears in Surah Al-Isra’ (17:22–39), covering fundamental duties toward God and fellow human beings:
Worship none but God.
Treat parents with kindness and humility.
Give charity to relatives, the poor, and travelers.
Do not kill your children out of fear of poverty.
Avoid adultery.
Do not unjustly take human life.
Honor pledges and contracts.
Give full measure and weight in trade.
Speak only with knowledge and truth.
Walk humbly and avoid arrogance.
Another list appears in Surah Al-An‘am, reaffirming many of the same principles. While the Quran emphasizes Friday prayers instead of the Sabbath, the underlying call to set aside time for God’s worship remains central.
The 10 Commandments in the Bible
The biblical 10 Commandments, found in Exodus 20 and Deuteronomy 6, include:
Worship only God.
Do not make or worship idols.
Do not misuse God’s name.
Keep the Sabbath holy.
Honor your father and mother.
Do not murder.
Do not commit adultery.
Do not steal.
Do not give false testimony.
Do not covet your neighbor’s belongings.
These commandments have guided Jewish and Christian communities for millennia, offering a clear framework for moral living.
Jesus and the Commandments
The New Testament shows that Jesus, on whom be peace, affirmed the commandments. He summarized them into two overarching principles:
Love God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength.
Love your neighbor as yourself.
These two principles capture the essence of the commandments: fulfilling the rights of God and the rights of His creatures.
Living by the Commandments Today
The teachings found in both the Quran and Bible remain highly relevant. They encourage honesty, fairness, humility, and respect for others. For Muslims, this includes attending Friday prayers, engaging in ethical trade, and ensuring livelihoods are permissible (halal). Acting on these commandments is more than acknowledging them, it is a commitment to daily ethical practice.
Sharing these teachings can also build understanding across faiths. The Quran, like previous revelations, underscores moral responsibility and compassion, highlighting a long tradition of guidance shared by all prophets
Conclusion
The 10 Commandments, whether encountered in the Bible or the Quran, remind us that ethical living, devotion to God, and care for others are universal values. By reflecting on and practicing these principles, we connect with a shared moral heritage and strengthen our commitment to living justly and compassionately in the modern world.
Learn More: Watch the fifteenth episode of our Ramadan series to explore this topic further
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