<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>
what does it mean to covet thy neighbor
setting one 's desire on things that are forbidden