Biblical Answer

What did Jesus mean by 'love your neighbor as yourself'?

Jesus taught that loving one's neighbor as oneself is a fundamental commandment, one that is tied to loving God with all one's heart, soul, mind, and strength. This commandment is rooted in Leviticus 19:18, which Jesus quotes in a fuller form at Mark 12:29-31. He emphasizes that this commandment is not just about loving one's fellow Israelite, but includes loving one's enemy as well. Jesus teaches that this love is not just a feeling, but an active and positive force that constantly plans and acts for the welfare of others.

Jesus explains what it means to love one's neighbor as oneself through the parable of the Good Samaritan. The Samaritan, who is not obligated to help the man who has been assaulted, shows compassion and kindness to him, demonstrating what it means to love one's neighbor as oneself. Jesus teaches that this love is not just about what we do, but also about who we are. He requires his disciples to overcome a self-centered orientation and to be willing to be a neighbor to others, even those who may be our enemies.

The command to love one's neighbor as oneself is not just a moral principle, but a fundamental aspect of the kingdom of God. Jesus teaches that this commandment is the sum of the Law and the Prophets, and that it is the greatest commandment of all. He emphasizes that loving one's neighbor as oneself is not just a matter of doing what is right, but also a matter of being a follower of God. As Jesus says, "If you love me, you will keep my commandments" (John 14:15). Loving one's neighbor as oneself is a fundamental aspect of what it means to love God, and it is a commandment that is central to the teachings of Jesus.