The Mystery Behind Moses Writing Down the Ten Commandments

The establishment of the Ten Commandments stands as a pivotal moment in religious history, cementing the relationship between the Israelites and their divine leader, God. Yet, one intriguing question arises: why did Moses, the man chosen to receive these divine laws, write them down? To fully understand this, we must delve into the divine origin of these commandments and their significance in both religious and historical contexts.

The Divine Origin of the Commandments

According to the biblical account in Exodus, God played an active role in the drafting of the Ten Commandments. In Exodus 31:18, we are told, And he gave to Moses, when he had made an end of speaking with him upon Mount Sinai, two tables of testimony, tables of stone, written with the finger of God. These tables, inscribed by God's own hand, symbolize the direct transmission of divine law to humanity.

The Restored Version

After these initial commandments were shattered by Joshua in Exodus 32, God instructed Moses to craft new tablets upon which the same divine commandments would be restored. The account in Exodus 34:1-4 reveals a pivotal moment where Moses, upon seeing the impact of the golden calf, smashed the old tablets and God provided new ones. This act of restoration underscores the enduring nature of God's commandments and their timeless relevance.

The Purpose Behind Writing the Commandments

Though the Ten Commandments were given to Moses by God, Moses's act of writing them down holds profound significance. It serves as a tangible means to ensure that these laws could be accessible, understandable, and teachable to the Israelites. Writing down the commandments provided a concrete medium for God's commands, transforming the intangible into something concrete and therefore more accessible to study and internalize.

The Role of the Commandments in Religious Texts

In the New Testament, specifically in Matthew 5:17-19, Jesus emphasized the importance of the law, stating, Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them. This passage reinforces the aspect of adherence to God's law and the belief in maintaining the original commandments as handed down through Moses.

Understanding the Covenant

The act of writing down the Ten Commandments also serves as a tangible expression of the covenant between God and his people. It symbolizes a binding agreement that outlines the expectations and responsibilities of both parties. In Exodus 24:7, we read, Then he took the book of the covenant and read it aloud to the people. And they said: All that Jehovah has spoken we are willing to do and we will be obedient. This act of readings and accepting the commandments demonstrates the people's willingness to be governed by God's law, recognizing their role as a chosen people.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the act of Moses writing down the Ten Commandments is not merely an administrative task but a symbolic act that serves multiple purposes. It ensures the preservation, accessibility, and teachability of divine law, fosters a sense of divine agreement, and reinforces the enduring nature of God's covenant. Understanding this context provides insight into the significance of these commandments in religious and historical perspectives.