20 Key Facts About the 10 Commandments in the Bible

The fact that the Ten Commandments consist of precisely 620 letters carries deep symbolic significance in Jewish tradition. These 620 letters are seen as a representation of the 613 mitzvot (commandments) found in the Torah and the additional 7 rabbinic commandments, collectively forming the foundation of Jewish religious practice. This symbolism underscores the idea that the Ten Commandments serve as a condensed summary of the entire moral and ethical framework of the Torah.

In essence, the Ten Commandments are considered the bedrock upon which the entire Torah is built, encapsulating its core principles and values. They provide a concise yet comprehensive guide to living a righteous and just life, emphasizing love for God and love for one’s neighbor. The numerical significance of 620 reinforces the central role of the Ten Commandments in Jewish ethical and spiritual teachings.

7. They Are Repeated in Deuteronomy

The repetition of the Ten Commandments in both Exodus and Deuteronomy holds special significance in the Torah. While the two versions are largely similar, the one in Deuteronomy contains some elaboration and commentary by Moses, making it somewhat longer. This repetition serves a dual purpose.

First, it reinforces the importance of the commandments. Reiterating them underscores their significance as the core moral and ethical principles that should guide the lives of the Israelites.

Second, the version in Deuteronomy, as Moses’s retelling of events 40 years later, provides a valuable opportunity for reflection and interpretation. Moses offers insight and context, offering a deeper understanding of the commandments and their relevance to the evolving circumstances of the Israelites. It emphasizes the timeless nature of these principles and their applicability to different generations.

8. They Are Read on Shavuot

The reading of the Ten Commandments on Shavuot carries profound spiritual significance in Judaism. Shavuot, the Festival of Weeks, commemorates the giving of the Torah at Mount Sinai. On this day, the Jewish people relive the momentous event when God communicated the Ten Commandments to Moses and the Israelites.

The annual reading of the Ten Commandments on Shavuot is a symbolic reenactment of this pivotal event in Jewish history. It connects every generation to the receiving of the Torah, emphasizing the enduring relevance of its moral and ethical teachings.

The Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson, further underscored the importance of this practice by encouraging people of all ages to be present at the reading on Shavuot. This inclusive approach emphasizes that the Torah’s teachings are for everyone, from the youngest to the oldest, fostering a sense of unity and commitment to the sacred principles contained within the Ten Commandments. It serves as a powerful reminder of the Jewish people’s ongoing covenant with God and their dedication to living by these timeless ethical guidelines.

9. A Special Tune Is Used 

The use of a special tune known as “taam elyon” when reading the Ten Commandments in the synagogue adds a unique and significant layer to this sacred ritual. Unlike ordinary cantillation marks found both above and below the text, taam elyon exclusively positions the marks above the words.

This distinctive tune serves several purposes. Firstly, it emphasizes the exceptional sanctity of the Ten Commandments. By setting them apart with a unique melodic pattern, it draws attention to their significance as the core moral and ethical principles of Judaism.

Secondly, the use of taam elyon creates a sense of awe and reverence. The melody’s upward inflection elevates the reading, symbolizing the ascent of the Israelites to Mount Sinai and their encounter with the divine.

Overall, the use of Taam Elyon enhances the spiritual experience of reading the Ten Commandments, fostering a deeper connection to their profound meaning and their role in Jewish tradition.

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10. Moses never actually refers to them as the “Ten Commandments”

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Exodus 20:1-2 establishes the Ten Commandments, one of the most well-known passages in the Bible and one of the most significant works of religious writing ever written. Strangely, they are never referred to as the Ten Commandments.

Three times in the Old Testament—in Exodus 34:28, Deuteronomy 4:13, and 10:4—the Hebrew phrase is translated literally as “ten words.” Because Deka is the Greek word for “ten” and logos means “word,” Exodus 20 is frequently referred to as the Decalogue.

These are the Ten Commandments that God delivered to the Israelites on Mount Sinai, and I would contend that these are the Ten Commandments that God wants us all to abide by.

11. The Ten Commandments show us who God is

The Ten Commandments serve as more than just a set of rules; they provide profound insights into the nature of God. Each commandment reflects the heart and character of the Lawgiver, offering a glimpse into God’s values and priorities. When we contemplate these commandments, we recognize that they are not arbitrary do’s and don’ts but a reflection of God’s wisdom, compassion, and divine nature.

For instance, the commandments concerning love for one’s neighbor, honesty, and refraining from harm demonstrate God’s desire for justice, harmony, and human flourishing. The prohibition against idolatry and misuse of God’s name underscores God’s uniqueness and the importance of a deep, reverent relationship with the divine.

In essence, the commandments not only reveal what God expects of us but also illuminate the very essence of God’s character – a loving, just, and compassionate Creator. Understanding this deepens our appreciation for the commandments and guides us in aligning our lives with the divine attributes they reflect.

12. They set us apart from the world

As Christians, we are called to be a distinct and holy people, set apart from the world. Just as the Ten Commandments serve as a moral and ethical guide, they also signify our unique identity as God’s chosen ones. In 1 Peter 2:9, we’re referred to as “a kingdom of priests and a holy nation,” highlighting our role in representing God’s values and principles to the world.

This means we may stand alone in our beliefs, embracing rules that the world may not fully comprehend. While we may fall short at times, our calling is to reflect God’s righteousness and love, striving to live according to His ways. We are God’s people, tasked with demonstrating His holiness and grace to the world, even if it means being different from the norm.

13. The commandments don’t strip our freedom but instead provide it

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The Ten Commandments don’t strip away our freedom; rather, they provide a framework for genuine freedom. By offering moral and ethical guidelines, they protect individuals and society from harm and chaos.

These principles promote respect, justice, and love for one another, creating an environment where true freedom flourishes. In essence, the commandments free us from the destructive consequences of selfishness and wrongdoing, allowing us to live in harmony with others and in alignment with our higher moral values. They serve as a pathway to a more meaningful and liberated life. 

14. They were not given so that we could earn our salvation

Some individuals see Christianity as a system of laws that I must abide by if I want God’s love and salvation. The Exodus story does not describe what took place like that. God acknowledged that the Israelites were being persecuted and declared, “I hear your cries. Because I love you, I’ll save you. I’m going to give you a new way of living when you’re redeemed, set free, and forgiven.

Salvation is the motivation for obedience, not the reward for doing what is right. Jesus does not declare, “I will love you if you keep my commandments.” As one alternative, Christ washes the disciples’ feet before saying, “If you love me, you will keep my commandments” (John 14:15). Everything we do is only possible because of what Jesus did for us before.

15. They are more trustworthy than our intuition or cultural code

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On this contradictory day, people will often say things like, “Right and wrong is what you decide for yourself,” but they will also chastise others for disobeying a variety of presumptive rules.

When it comes to sex, our culture may be quite open-minded and liberal, but when it comes to the ethical implications of the sexual revolution, we may be completely fundamentalist.

Even while the old swear words may not offend us as much anymore, there are currently additional terms, such as unpleasant slurs and insults, that can instantly exclude someone from polite company. We still live in a culture with morals.

But according to the Bible, the beginning of knowledge is the fear of the Lord (Prov. 9:10). Listening to God rather than your instinct is the best method to find moral guidance.

16. The commandments are central to the ethics of the New Testament

Consider Mark 10:17, for instance. A rich young ruler approaches Jesus at this point and asks, “What must I do to inherit eternal life?” He hears Jesus reply, “You know the commandments.” Then, in the second table of the law, he specifies the prohibitions that apply to our neighbors: “Do not murder, Do not commit adultery, Do not steal, Do not bear false witness, Do not defraud, Honor your father and mother” (v. 19).

Jesus does not provide a roadmap for obtaining eternal life. Because Jesus omits the one instruction that the young man definitely hasn’t followed—do not covet (vv. 20–22), we can infer from the remainder of the narrative that Jesus is intentionally positioning the young man for failure. However, it is remarkable that Jesus jumps right to the Ten Commandments when he has to provide a quick overview of our neighborly responsibilities.

17. They are still relevant for Christians today

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Can we perfectly or completely uphold the commandments? No. Do they help us see our sins and direct us toward the cross? Absolutely. However, the commandments also provide us with guidance on how to live, how to offer neighborly love, and how to show God our whole devotion.

The Ten Words that were given at Sinai are still necessary. Has the arrival of Christ affected them in some way? Undoubtedly—transformed but not destroyed. Without keeping the Ten Commandments in Christ, through Christ, and with an eye toward the transcendent greatness of Christ, we can no longer uphold them correctly. The law is not just our obligation but also our delight because we are new creations in Christ. We shall uphold his commands if we truly wish to love Christ as he deserves and as he longs for us to (John 14:15).

18. The church’s most important instruction has been based on them

The church’s most significant instructions and ethical teachings have often been rooted in the principles of the Ten Commandments. These commandments provide a moral and ethical foundation that aligns with the core values of Christianity.

They emphasize love for God and love for one’s neighbor, which are central to Jesus’ teachings. From issues of worship, and reverence for God’s name, to ethical conduct and social justice, the commandments have served as a fundamental guide for Christian moral theology and have influenced church doctrine and teachings throughout history.

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19. The phrase “Ten Commandments” is found only three times in Scripture

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The term “Ten Commandments” is mentioned explicitly only three times in the Scriptures, specifically in Exodus 34:28, Deuteronomy 4:13, and Deuteronomy 10:4.

However, despite the infrequent use of this specific phrase, the content and importance of these commandments are extensively discussed and elaborated upon throughout the Bible.

They are central to the ethical and moral teachings of the Old Testament and play a foundational role in Judeo-Christian theology, even though the term “Ten Commandments” itself is not frequently repeated in the text.

20. They are spoken of as the covenant God made with Moses and Israel

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The Ten Commandments are often referred to as the covenant God made with Moses and Israel because they represent a sacred agreement between God and the Israelites.

This covenant outlines the moral and ethical expectations for the people and serves as the foundation for their relationship with God. The commandments are not just a set of rules but a covenantal bond, emphasizing mutual obligations.

God promises guidance, protection, and blessings, while the Israelites commit to obeying His commandments. This covenant underscores the unique relationship between God and the chosen people, shaping their identity and religious practice for generations to come.