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 of forty days and forty nights
The period of forty days and nights is significant throughout Scripture, often symbolizing a time of testing, trial, or preparation. Moses' time on Mount Sinai parallels other biblical events, such as Jesus' fasting in the wilderness (Matthew 4:2) and Elijah's journey to Horeb (1 Kings 19:8). This duration underscores the completeness and sufficiency of the time spent in divine presence, preparing Moses to receive God's law.

the LORD gave me
This phrase emphasizes the divine origin of the law. It was not conceived by human wisdom but was a direct revelation from God. The giving of the law signifies God's covenant relationship with Israel, highlighting His role as the lawgiver and the authority behind the commandments. This divine giving is a precursor to the New Covenant, where God gives His Spirit to write the law on believers' hearts (Jeremiah 31:33).

the two stone tablets
The stone tablets symbolize the permanence and unchanging nature of God's law. Stone, being durable, indicates that the commandments are meant to endure through generations. Archaeologically, similar stone inscriptions have been found in the ancient Near East, used for important decrees, underscoring the significance of the tablets. The tablets also prefigure Christ, the "living stone" (1 Peter 2:4), who embodies the law.

the tablets of the covenant
These tablets represent the formal agreement between God and Israel, akin to ancient suzerain-vassal treaties. The covenant establishes Israel as God's chosen people, with the law serving as the terms of this relationship. This covenant is foundational for understanding Israel's identity and mission. In the New Testament, Jesus is seen as the mediator of a new and better covenant (Hebrews 8:6), fulfilling and surpassing the old covenant's requirements.

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.