Do not blaspheme God or curse the ruler of your people. The double prohibition — against blasphemy and against cursing rulers — pairs the divine and human authority structures. God and the ruler of the people are both to be spoken of with respect. Acts 23:5 records Paul, having inadvertently spoken against the high priest, immediately quoting this verse: do not speak evil about the ruler of your people. The reflexive application of the biblical law — even to the person who has wronged you — is the mark of a conscience formed by covenant ethics. 1 Peter 2:17 says honor everyone. Love the family of believers. Fear God. Honor the emperor. The four commands mirror the structure of Exodus 22:28 applied to the New Covenant context.

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