For a finite-dimensional complex semisimple Lie algebra, every derivation is an inner derivation of a Lie algebra. Adjoin a derivation as a one-dimensional acting algebra, obtaining with . The semisimple Lie ideal has a commuting ideal complement result supplies a one-dimensional complementary ideal commuting with . Its vector with derivation component is for some . Commuting this with arbitrary gives . The zero derivation is represented by .
The Lie bracket is bilinear, so is a linear map. Rearranging the Jacobi identity gives
Thus
which is the defining Leibniz rule for a derivation of a Lie algebra. In particular is an inner derivation of a Lie algebra.