Exodus 20:13 says, “Thou shalt not kill.” Does this refer to animals and other creatures, or to human beings?

QUESTION: Exodus 20:13 says, “Thou shalt not kill.” Does this refer to animals and other creatures, or to human beings?

ANSWER: This passage prohibits the premeditated murder of a human being. That it refers only to humans is clearly seen in that God (before the New Testament) directed the killing of sacrificial animals (Leviticus, chapter one). Note, as well, in Genesis 18:1-8, that the messengers (angels) of the Lord ate the flesh of animals. See also Acts 10:13-14.