<P> In traditions that consider the passage a single commandment, the full text reads: </P> <P> You shall not covet your neighbor's house . You shall not covet your neighbor's wife, or his male or female servant, his ox or donkey, or anything that belongs to your neighbor . </P> <P> Unlike the other commandments which focus on outward actions, this commandment focuses on thought . It is an imperative against setting one's desire on things that are forbidden . One commandment forbids the act of adultery . This commandment forbids the desire for adultery . One commandment forbids stealing . This commandment forbids the desire for acquisition of another's goods . The New Testament describes Jesus as interpreting the Ten Commandments as issues of the heart's desires rather than merely prohibiting certain outward actions . </P> <P> You have heard that it was said to the people long ago, "Do not murder," and "anyone who murders will be subject to judgment ." But I tell you that anyone who is angry with his brother will be subject to judgment...You have heard that it was said, "Do not commit adultery ." But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart . </P>

What does it mean to covet thy neighbor