The Fourth Commandment
From the Catechism of the Catholic Church, Simplified
"Honor your father and your mother" (Ex 20:12, Deut 5:16).
Fulfilling the Two Commands (2196)
Jesus gave two commandments: to love God with all our heart and soul and mind and strength, and to love our neighbor as ourselves. "There is no other commandment greater than these" (Mk 12:29). "The commandments are summed up in this sentence, ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself'" (Rom 13:8-10).
Positive Duties in Correct Order (2197-2198)
This commandment begins the second table of the Ten Commandments and shows the correct order of charity. After God, we owe honor first to our parents who have given us life. We must also obey those to whom God has given his authority.
This commandment speaks of positive duties, introduces the other commandments (which regard specific duties), and constitutes the foundation of the Church's social doctrine.
To Children and to Others (2199)
The commandment speaks first to children concerning their parents (the most universal relationship), but also requires honor toward elders and ancestors. The commandment extends to pupils, employees, and citizens in their relationships to authority. The commandment presupposes the responsibilities of those in authority (parents, teachers, leaders).
A Promised Reward (2200)
God promises a reward: "long life in the land your God gives you" (Ex 20:12). Honoring authority does result in peace and prosperity. Failure to obey harms the family and community.
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