NINTH
COMMANDMENT

M.—What is the ninth commandment?

S.—Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbor.

M.—Does it prohibit perjury in court only, or any kind of lying against our neighbors?

S.—Under one species the general doctrine is comprehended, that we are not to charge our neighbor falsely, nor by our evil speaking and detraction hurt his good name, or harm him in his goods.

M.—But why does it expressly mention public perjury?

S.—That it may inspire us with a greater abhorrence of this vice. For it insinuates that if a man accustom himself to evil speaking and calumny, the descent to perjury is rapid if an opportunity is given to defame his neighbor.

M.—Does it mean to keep us from evil speaking only, or also from false suspicion and unjust and uncharitable judgment?

S.—It here condemns both, according to the view already stated. For whatever it is wrong to do before men, it is wrong to wish before God.

M.—Explain then what it means in substance.

S.—It enjoins us not to think ill of our neighbors, or be prone to defame them, but in the spirit of kindness and impartiality to think well of them as far as the truth will permit, and study to preserve their reputation entire.