The 10 Commandments, also known as the Ten Commandments, are a foundational set of biblical principles that have shaped moral, ethical, and legal standards for millennia. Originally found in the Book of Exodus (Chapter 20) and later reiterated in Deuteronomy 5, these divine instructions were given by God to Moses on Mount Sinai. They are central to Judeo-Christian teachings and continue to influence religious and secular thought alike.
In this post, we’ll explore the meaning of the Ten Commandments, their biblical origin, and their ongoing significance in modern times.
The Origin of the Ten Commandments
The Ten Commandments were delivered to the Israelites after their exodus from Egypt, during their journey to the Promised Land. According to the Hebrew Bible, God gave these commandments to Moses, inscribed on two tablets of stone, symbolizing a covenant between God and His people.
They are recorded in:
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Exodus 20:1–17
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Deuteronomy 5:4–21
The 10 Commandments: Listed and Explained
Below is a breakdown of each commandment, including its biblical reference and interpretation.
1. You shall have no other gods before Me
📖 Exodus 20:3
This commandment emphasizes monotheism, affirming that the worship of one true God is essential. It forbids idolatry or placing any other deity or authority above God.
2. You shall not make for yourself a carved image
📖 Exodus 20:4–6
This reinforces the rejection of idolatry and prohibits creating or worshipping physical representations of God or other gods.
3. You shall not take the name of the Lord your God in vain
📖 Exodus 20:7
This commandment teaches reverence for God's name, discouraging misuse, swearing, or speaking His name carelessly.
4. Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy
📖 Exodus 20:8–11
God instructs the people to set aside the seventh day (Saturday in Judaism, Sunday in Christianity) for rest and worship, reflecting God's own rest after creation.
5. Honor your father and your mother
📖 Exodus 20:12
This is the first commandment with a promise of long life, emphasizing the importance of family structure and respect for parents.
6. You shall not murder
📖 Exodus 20:13
This direct and universal command protects the sanctity of human life, condemning unlawful killing.
7. You shall not commit adultery
📖 Exodus 20:14
This reinforces faithfulness in marriage, preserving the sanctity of the marital relationship.
8. You shall not steal
📖 Exodus 20:15
A clear ethical directive against theft and dishonesty, upholding the principle of respecting others’ property.
9. You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor
📖 Exodus 20:16
This promotes truthfulness and justice, especially in legal and personal relationships.
10. You shall not covet
📖 Exodus 20:17
This internal command addresses desire and envy, warning against longing for what belongs to others — including their spouse, possessions, or status.
Theological and Ethical Significance
The Ten Commandments serve as a moral compass, guiding behavior in personal, social, and religious contexts. They are:
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Universal principles: Shared across Judaism, Christianity, and respected in Islam.
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The basis for many legal systems: Particularly in Western societies.
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Still relevant: They provide ethical clarity in a morally complex world.
Modern Applications of the Ten Commandments
In today’s world, the commandments can be viewed through both spiritual and practical lenses:
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Respecting boundaries (Commandments 6–10) builds healthier communities.
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Focusing on spiritual priorities (Commandments 1–4) fosters a deeper relationship with God.
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Teaching the commandments to children helps instill timeless values.
Differences in Numbering Traditions
Different religious groups number the commandments slightly differently:
| Tradition | First Commandment | Tenth Commandment |
|---|---|---|
| Jewish | I am the Lord your God | You shall not covet... |
| Catholic & Lutheran | You shall have no other gods | You shall not covet... (split into two) |
| Protestant | You shall have no other gods | You shall not covet... |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Are the Ten Commandments in the New Testament?
Yes. While the Ten Commandments originate in the Old Testament, Jesus affirms their value (e.g., Matthew 5:17–19) and emphasizes love as their fulfillment (Matthew 22:37–40).
Are the Ten Commandments still relevant?
Absolutely. Regardless of religious belief, the principles of honesty, respect, and justice are foundational for any society.
Who wrote the Ten Commandments?
The Bible states that God Himself wrote the commandments on tablets of stone (Exodus 31:18).