What Is the Golden Rule?
What Is the Golden Rule? The Golden Rule is Jesus' command: 'Do unto others as you would have them do unto you' — a summary of how God wants us to treat each other.
Key verse: Matthew 7:12 (KJV)
The Golden Rule is Jesus' command: 'Do unto others as you would have them do unto you' — a summary of how God wants us to treat each other.
The Golden Rule is Jesus' command: 'Do unto others as you would have them do unto you' — a summary of how God wants us to treat each other.
"Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets." — Matthew 7:12 (KJV)
Meaning
Plain-language explanation
In Context
Surrounding KJV scripture
Related Verses
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The Biblical Answer
The Golden Rule appears in Matthew 7:12 during the Sermon on the Mount: 'Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets.' Jesus presented this as a summary of the entire ethical teaching of the Old Testament. While similar negative formulations ('do not do to others what you would not want done to you') existed in other ancient cultures, Jesus stated it positively — not merely avoiding harm but actively doing good. This shifts the focus from passive avoidance to proactive love. The Golden Rule flows naturally from the two greatest commandments: love God with all your heart, and love your neighbor as yourself. It requires empathy — putting yourself in another's position — and action. It applies to speech, business dealings, family relationships, and interactions with strangers. The Golden Rule has become one of the most widely recognized ethical principles in human history.
Topic Overview
What Does the Bible Say About Integrity?
What the Bible teaches about honesty, moral character, and living with integrity before God and others.
Key Scripture References
"Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets."
"And as ye would that men should do to you, do ye also to them likewise."
"Love worketh no ill to his neighbour: therefore love is the fulfilling of the law."
Frequently asked questions
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Related Questions
What Is the Sermon on the Mount?
The Sermon on the Mount is Jesus' most famous teaching, recorded in Matthew 5-7, covering the Beatitudes, the Lord's Prayer, and principles for godly living.
What Does the Bible Say About Love?
The Bible defines love not as a feeling but as a sacrificial choice — modeled perfectly by God's gift of His Son.
How Do You Forgive Others According to the Bible?
Biblical forgiveness means releasing bitterness and choosing not to hold someone's offense against them — just as God in Christ forgave us.
What Does the Bible Say About Money?
The Bible doesn't condemn money itself but warns against the love of money and teaches generosity, contentment, and wise stewardship.
What Is Tithing?
Tithing is the practice of giving a tenth (10%) of one's income to God, rooted in Old Testament law and reflected in New Testament generosity.
Deep Dive Commentary
For a more in-depth study, read our verse-by-verse commentary:
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The answer above sits inside Matthew. The 365-day chronological plan reads it in the order the events happened.
Read Matthew on day 284 of the chronological Bible reading planKeep the verses to hand
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