Deuteronomy 9:11

And at the end of forty days and forty nights, the LORD gave me the two stone tablets, the tablets of the covenant.

Study Bible

And at the end
This phrase marks the culmination of a significant period, emphasizing the completion of a divinely appointed time. In the Hebrew context, the word used here often signifies fulfillment or completion, indicating that what follows is the result of a divinely orchestrated process. This completion underscores God's perfect timing and His sovereign control over events.

forty days and forty nights
The number forty in the Bible often symbolizes a period of testing, trial, or probation. This phrase is reminiscent of other biblical events, such as the forty days of rain during the flood (Genesis 7:12) and Jesus' forty days of fasting in the wilderness (Matthew 4:2). In the Hebrew tradition, this period signifies a time of preparation and transformation, suggesting that Moses' time on the mountain was a period of spiritual refinement and divine instruction.

the LORD gave me
This phrase highlights the divine initiative and grace. The Hebrew word for "gave" implies a gift or bestowal, emphasizing that the tablets were not earned by Moses but were a gracious provision from God. This reflects the broader biblical theme of God's grace and generosity, reminding believers that the covenant is a gift from God, not a human achievement.

the two stone tablets
The stone tablets are significant as they represent the permanence and unchanging nature of God's law. In the ancient Near Eastern context, important decrees were often inscribed on stone to signify their enduring authority. The use of stone here underscores the eternal and binding nature of God's commandments, which are meant to guide His people perpetually.

the tablets of the covenant
This phrase emphasizes the relational aspect of the law. The Hebrew word for "covenant" (berit) denotes a solemn agreement or contract, often sealed with a sign or symbol. In biblical terms, a covenant is a sacred bond between God and His people, characterized by mutual commitments. The tablets symbolize God's commitment to His people and their obligation to live according to His statutes, reflecting the deep, personal relationship God desires with His followers.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites who received the two stone tablets from God. He is a central figure in the Pentateuch and serves as a mediator between God and the people.

2. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant-keeping God of Israel who gave the law to Moses. His interaction with Moses on Mount Sinai is a pivotal moment in Israel's history.

3. The Two Stone Tablets
These tablets contained the Ten Commandments, representing God's covenant with Israel. They symbolize God's law and His expectations for His people.

4. Mount Sinai
The mountain where Moses received the law from God. It is a place of divine revelation and covenant-making.

5. The Israelites
The people of God who were to receive and live by the commandments given to Moses. Their journey from Egypt to the Promised Land is marked by moments of faith and rebellion.

Teaching Points

The Significance of Forty Days
The number forty often signifies a period of testing, preparation, or judgment in the Bible. Reflect on how God uses these times to prepare His people for His purposes.

The Covenant Relationship
The giving of the law on stone tablets underscores the seriousness and permanence of God's covenant with His people. Consider how this covenant relationship is fulfilled in Christ and what it means for believers today.

The Role of the Mediator
Moses acted as a mediator between God and Israel. In the New Testament, Jesus is our ultimate mediator. Reflect on the importance of having a mediator and how Jesus fulfills this role perfectly.

Obedience to God's Law
The tablets represent God's expectations for His people. Discuss the importance of obedience to God's commands and how the Holy Spirit empowers believers to live according to God's will.

God's Faithfulness
Despite Israel's failures, God remained faithful to His covenant. Consider how God's faithfulness is evident in your life and how you can respond with faith and obedience.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the period of forty days and nights signify in the context of Moses receiving the law, and how can this understanding impact our spiritual disciplines today?

2. How does the giving of the two stone tablets at Mount Sinai relate to the New Covenant established through Jesus Christ?

3. In what ways does Moses' role as a mediator foreshadow the mediating work of Jesus, and how does this understanding deepen our appreciation for Christ's sacrifice?

4. How can we apply the principles of God's law, as represented by the stone tablets, in our daily lives while living under the grace of the New Covenant?

5. Reflect on a time when you experienced God's faithfulness despite your shortcomings. How can this reflection encourage you to trust and obey God more fully?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 24:18
This passage describes Moses' ascent to Mount Sinai and his forty days and nights with God, providing context for the event in Deuteronomy 9:11.

Exodus 31:18
This verse details the giving of the stone tablets, emphasizing their divine origin and the importance of the covenant.

Matthew 4:2
Jesus' forty days and nights of fasting in the wilderness parallel Moses' time on the mountain, highlighting themes of preparation and divine encounter.