The quotation: "Love thy neighbor as thyself" originated from which of these sources: Shakespeare, Jesus, or the Old Testament?

While many associate the phrase "Love thy neighbor as thyself" with the teachings of Jesus, and some even misattribute it to Shakespeare, its origins trace back to the Old Testament. The commandment first appears in the book of Leviticus, chapter 19, verse 18. This instruction was part of a broader set of laws given to the ancient Israelites to guide their social and ethical conduct, emphasizing compassion and fairness within their community.

The saying gained much of its prominence centuries later when Jesus of Nazareth quoted it. In the New Testament gospels of Matthew and Mark, Jesus identifies this commandment as the second most important, following only the instruction to love God. He famously paired these two commandments as the foundation (Review) of all biblical law and teachings. This endorsement elevated the ancient directive to a central tenet of Christian ethics, where it continues to be a fundamental principle.

Although the themes of love, morality, and social duty are common in the works of William Shakespeare, the specific phrase "Love thy neighbor as thyself" does not appear in his plays or sonnets. The enduring power of this simple yet profound statement comes from its deep roots in ancient scripture and its central role in the moral teachings of both Judaism and Christianity, a journey that began long before the time of either Jesus or Shakespeare.