I use to think that this commandment meant exactly what it says, but as I began an indepth study of it, I have come to the conclusion that it does not. In the dictionary the word 'kill' is defined as: "To put to death. To deprive of life." This could mean anything, AND YET, a simple knowledge of the Bible reveals that our GOD did not forbid the killing of certain human beings, or of animals. In fact, as you study this subject thoroughly you will find, as I did, that there are two kinds of killing that are actually sanctioned by GOD. The first is that of punishment for capital crimes; the Old Testament presents a number of acts that warranted death, murder being one of them. As early as Genesis 9, our heavenly Father imposed the death penalty for anyone who deliberately took the life, or murdered, another human being.

On the other hand, He established places of refuge to protect individuals who accidently killed someone, to keep them safe from the dead person's vengeful relatives and/or friends.

And the other is that of war. Indeed, in many instances, GOD commanded His people to kill their enemies. So that all through the Old Testament the Israelites are at war with one country or another, and GOD does not chide them or take away His blessings from them, or criticize their actions in any way; except in one situation found in 1 Samuel 13, where they were scolded for not being thorough enough in the killing of their enemies.

Because of this, and in the context of all Scripture, I have come to believe that Exodus 20:13 should actually read, "You shall not murder." Murder is defined as: "The unlawful act of planning and deliberately putting to death another human being for ungodly reasons."

We are told though that murder is not always just a physical act, but it like the other commandments, starts as an desire in our hearts [thoughts]. "Whoever hates someone else is a murderer..." ~1 John 3:15. "For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders..." ~Matthew 15:19.

This again brings into significance what having a relationship with our GOD is all about. What is in our heart; what words  come to mind when someone causes us pain? How do we, as Christians...Prayer Warriors, respond to those who hate or mistreat us? If we are not loving them, blessing them and praying for them, it will ultimately lead to our murdering them in our thoughts.

There is only one cure for the disease of our natural desires, and that is a spiritual heart transplant. CHRIST in us. Then the whole law is governed by one word...to "love" GOD, and our neighbor as ourselves. Where love abides, hate, envy, malice, jealousy, revenge...etc. leave.