Topical Encyclopedia The term "Decalogue" refers to the Ten Commandments, a foundational set of divine laws given by God to the people of Israel. These commandments are recorded in the books of Exodus and Deuteronomy and are central to Judeo-Christian ethics and morality. The Decalogue is also known as the "Tables of Testimony" because they were inscribed on two stone tablets, which Moses received on Mount Sinai.Biblical Account The account of the Decalogue is primarily found in Exodus 20:1-17 and Deuteronomy 5:6-21. In Exodus 31:18, it is stated, "When He had finished speaking with him on Mount Sinai, He gave Moses the two tablets of the Testimony, tablets of stone inscribed by the finger of God" . These tablets were a tangible representation of God's covenant with Israel, serving as a testimony to His laws and expectations for His people. The Two Tablets Traditionally, the Ten Commandments are divided into two sections, often thought to correspond to the two tablets. The first tablet is believed to contain commandments that pertain to humanity's relationship with God, while the second tablet addresses interpersonal relationships. This division underscores the dual focus of the Decalogue on both divine and social obligations. 1. First Tablet: Relationship with God · Commandment 1: "You shall have no other gods before Me" (Exodus 20:3). · Commandment 2: "You shall not make for yourself an idol" (Exodus 20:4). · Commandment 3: "You shall not take the name of the LORD your God in vain" (Exodus 20:7). · Commandment 4: "Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy" (Exodus 20:8). 2. Second Tablet: Relationship with Others · Commandment 5: "Honor your father and mother" (Exodus 20:12). · Commandment 6: "You shall not murder" (Exodus 20:13). · Commandment 7: "You shall not commit adultery" (Exodus 20:14). · Commandment 8: "You shall not steal" (Exodus 20:15). · Commandment 9: "You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor" (Exodus 20:16). · Commandment 10: "You shall not covet" (Exodus 20:17). Theological Significance The Decalogue holds a place of paramount importance in biblical theology. It is seen as a direct revelation from God, encapsulating His moral law. The commandments are not merely legal stipulations but are viewed as expressions of God's character and His will for human conduct. They serve as a guide for righteous living and are foundational to the covenant relationship between God and His people. Historical Context The giving of the Decalogue occurred during the Exodus, a pivotal event in Israel's history. After delivering the Israelites from slavery in Egypt, God established a covenant with them at Mount Sinai. The Decalogue was central to this covenant, setting forth the principles by which the Israelites were to live as God's chosen people. Preservation and Legacy The original stone tablets were placed in the Ark of the Covenant, as described in Exodus 25:16: "And put into the ark the Testimony, which I will give you" . This placement signified the centrality of the Decalogue in Israel's religious life. Throughout history, the Ten Commandments have continued to influence legal systems, ethical thought, and religious teachings across cultures and denominations. New Testament Perspective In the New Testament, Jesus affirms the enduring significance of the Decalogue. When asked about the greatest commandment, He summarizes the law with two principles: love for God and love for neighbor (Matthew 22:37-40). This summary reflects the dual focus of the Decalogue and underscores its continued relevance in Christian ethics. The Decalogue, as the Tables of Testimony, remains a vital component of biblical teaching, embodying the moral and spiritual principles that guide believers in their relationship with God and with one another. Nave's Topical Index Exodus 31:18And he gave to Moses, when he had made an end of communing with him on mount Sinai, two tables of testimony, tables of stone, written with the finger of God. Nave's Topical Index Exodus 34:29 Exodus 40:20 Library Gnostic Exposition of the Decalogue. At First God Deemed it Sufficient to Inscribe the Natural Law, or ... Whether it was Becoming that Christ Should Lead an Austere Life in ... Luther's Catechisms. AD 1529. The Doctrinal Standards of the Russo-Greek Church. Weighed in the Balances Faustus Rejects the Old Testament Because it Leaves no Room for ... What did Moses Write? The Clergyman and the Prayer Book. The Second Helvetic Confession, AD 1566. Resources Why is "You shall not steal" in the Ten Commandments? | GotQuestions.orgWhat impact did Duns Scotus have on the Christian faith? | GotQuestions.org What are the Noahide Laws, and are they biblical? | GotQuestions.org Decalogue: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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