Where Are the Ten Commandments Found in the Bible?

The Ten Commandments, foundational principles of moral and ethical conduct, are not just abstract concepts drifting through the scriptures. They are explicitly written down in two distinct books and chapters within the Bible. If you’re seeking to pinpoint exactly where to find these pivotal laws, the answer lies within the Old Testament.

The Ten Commandments are recorded in Exodus 20:2-17 and again in Deuteronomy 5:6-21. Both passages detail God’s direct communication to the Israelites, outlining the core tenets of their covenant relationship with Him.

Exploring the Ten Commandments in Scripture

To fully grasp the context and significance of these commandments, let’s delve into the specific biblical books where they are located:

• Exodus 20:2-17: This is the first and arguably most well-known instance where the Ten Commandments are listed. Chapter 20 of Exodus recounts the dramatic scene at Mount Sinai. After liberating the Israelites from slavery in Egypt, God reveals Himself in power and glory, delivering the Ten Commandments as the basis for their new nation’s law and their relationship with Him. This passage is part of a larger narrative that includes the establishment of the covenant between God and Israel.

• Deuteronomy 5:6-21: The second recording of the Ten Commandments appears in Deuteronomy, specifically chapter 5. Deuteronomy, meaning “second law,” is presented as a series of Moses’ speeches to the Israelites on the plains of Moab, just before they enter the Promised Land. Around forty years after the initial giving of the law at Mount Sinai, Moses reiterates the Ten Commandments to a new generation, reminding them of their covenant obligations. This repetition emphasizes the enduring importance of these laws for the Israelite people and for believers throughout history.

What Exactly Are the Ten Commandments?

The Ten Commandments themselves serve as a concise summary of God’s moral law. They are traditionally categorized into two sections: the first four commandments focus on humanity’s relationship with God, and the last six address interpersonal relationships. Here is a summary of these commandments:

1. “You shall have no other gods before me.” (Exodus 20:3) – This establishes God’s singular authority and prohibits idolatry.
2. “You shall not make for yourself a carved image…you shall not bow down to them or serve them.” (Exodus 20:4-5) – This further emphasizes the prohibition of idolatry and the worship of false gods.
3. “You shall not take the name of the Lord your God in vain.” (Exodus 20:7) – This commandment emphasizes reverence and respect for God’s name.
4. “Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy.” (Exodus 20:8) – This sets aside a day for rest and worship, honoring God as Creator.
5. “Honor your father and your mother.” (Exodus 20:12) – This commandment highlights the importance of family and respect for parental authority.
6. “You shall not murder.” (Exodus 20:13) – This protects the sanctity of human life.
7. “You shall not commit adultery.” (Exodus 20:14) – This upholds the sanctity of marriage and fidelity.
8. “You shall not steal.” (Exodus 20:15) – This protects personal property and promotes honesty.
9. “You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor.” (Exodus 20:16) – This emphasizes truthfulness and integrity in communication.
10. “You shall not covet…anything that is your neighbor’s.” (Exodus 20:17) – This addresses inner desires and prohibits envy and greed.

The Historical Context of the Ten Commandments

The Bible indicates that the Ten Commandments were not a new concept introduced at Mount Sinai. While they were formally codified and written down at this time, the principles behind them were already in effect. Consider these points:

• Divine Finger and Stone Tablets: Exodus 31:18 tells us that the Ten Commandments were “written with the finger of God” on two tablets of stone. This emphasizes their divine origin and permanence. The use of stone tablets signified the importance and lasting nature of these laws.

• Time of Writing: Scholars generally place the giving of the Ten Commandments between 1600 and 1300 B.C., during the Exodus period. This was a pivotal time in Israelite history, marking their transition from slavery to nationhood under God’s guidance.

• Law Before Codification: Even before Exodus 20, the Bible provides instances of these principles being understood and upheld. For example, in Genesis 3, Adam and Eve’s disobedience in the Garden of Eden can be seen as a violation of the First Commandment – placing their own judgment above God’s command. Similarly, Cain’s murder of Abel in Genesis 4 clearly breaks the commandment against murder.

• Romans 7:7 and the Law’s Purpose: The Apostle Paul, in Romans 7:7, explains that the law is essential for understanding sin. He states, “I would not have known sin except through the law. For I would not have known covetousness unless the law had said, ‘You shall not covet.'” This suggests that the moral principles embodied in the Ten Commandments were always relevant, even before their formal articulation at Sinai.

Mount Sinai: The Mountain of Divine Law

The location where God revealed the Ten Commandments is significant. The Bible identifies Mount Sinai as the mountain where this momentous event occurred (Exodus 19:20-25, 31:18). Interestingly, Deuteronomy 5:2 also mentions Horeb in connection with the covenant, stating, “The LORD our God made a covenant with us in Horeb.” It is often understood that Horeb and Sinai refer to the same general mountainous region, with Mount Sinai being the specific peak within Horeb where the Ten Commandments were given. This mountain became symbolic of God’s law and covenant with Israel.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the answer to “Where Are The Ten Commandments Found In The Bible?” is unequivocally Exodus 20:2-17 and Deuteronomy 5:6-21. These passages are central to understanding not only the legal framework of the Old Testament but also the enduring moral principles that continue to guide individuals and societies today. By studying these chapters, we gain valuable insight into God’s expectations for humanity and the foundation of ethical living.