זכריה, פרק ז׳, פסוק י׳

The prophetic moral vision places a strong focus on protecting the most vulnerable members of society and maintaining pure intentions toward others, echoing the core messages of the early prophets [ביאור שטיינזלץ]. Widows, orphans, strangers, and the poor are specifically highlighted because their lack of power makes them easy targets for exploitation and theft [מצודת דוד, רד״ק]. The warning against oppression is a strict demand not to withhold what rightfully belongs to these individuals [ביאור שטיינזלץ]. This protection goes beyond just financial matters, as it also includes a strict ban on verbal abuse [רד״ק]. In the broader prophetic vision, ensuring the weak are not oppressed is the ultimate expression of true justice and law [מלבי״ם].

Beyond outward actions, there is a deep focus on a person's inner world. People are warned against planning or even thinking about harming one another [מצודת דוד]. The very thought of doing wrong is forbidden, let alone the act itself, because negative thoughts inevitably lead to harmful actions. This is similar to the rule against secretly hating someone in one's heart [רד״ק]. Ultimately, the requirement to clear the mind of evil thoughts is rooted in the ideals of kindness and mercy [מלבי״ם].