Johann Hunt
Few texts are as well-known as the Ten Commandments, yet they’re also some of the most misunderstood. Despite their cultural and religious significance, people often get their origins, meanings, and applications wrong. Let’s break down ten major misconceptions and discover the fascinating truths about these ancient laws.
They Were Meant Only for Israelites
Original tablets were inscribed in Hebrew, but they weren’t necessarily exclusive to the Israelites. Evidence suggests that as Israel interacted with neighboring cultures, these principles were shared and adapted. The Ten Commandments likely influenced broader moral teachings across ancient societies, especially in regions like Canaan and Mesopotamia, where cultural exchange was common.
All Religions Agree on Their Numbering
It might surprise you, but there’s no single way to number the commandments. Jewish traditions view the opening line, “I am the Lord your God,” as the first, while Catholics combine prohibitions on idolatry and worshiping other gods. Protestants often split the “coveting” command into two. This discrepancy highlights differences in interpretation rather than the content itself.
Moses Was the Sole Author
Although Moses is central to their story, the Ten Commandments didn’t arise in isolation. Many scholars note similarities to older law codes, like the Code of Hammurabi, which governed Babylonian society. These shared themes, such as prohibiting theft and adultery, suggest that the commandments weren’t entirely new but rather codified moral norms with a divine authority unique to Israel.
They Were Written Only Once
The idea of the commandments being carved in stone is literal but not entirely straightforward. After the Israelites worshiped a golden calf, Moses shattered the original tablets in anger. A second set was created, signifying their importance. According to tradition, these replacements were placed in the Ark of the Covenant, while the originals were lost or destroyed.
They Are Purely Ethical Rules
Many assume the commandments are a universal guide to morality. However, they blend ethical and religious obligations. For example, prohibitions against murder and theft are universally moral, while Sabbath observance is a ritual command tied to Israel’s covenant with God. This mix reflects their dual role as both societal laws and a guide for worship.
“Thou Shalt Not Kill” Forbids All Forms of Taking Life
The original Hebrew word used here, “ratsach,” specifically refers to the unlawful taking of life, such as premeditated murder. This commandment doesn’t address self-defense, capital punishment, or battle, all of which were permitted under Mosaic Law. Misunderstanding this nuance has led to debates about the commandment’s application in modern times, particularly regarding pacifism and the ethics of battles.
The Commandments Are Identical in Exodus
While the Ten Commandments appear twice in the Bible—in Exodus 20 and Deuteronomy 5—the versions aren’t identical. The Exodus version emphasizes God’s creation of the world, while Deuteronomy ties the Sabbath to the Israelites’ liberation from Egypt. These distinctions reflect different theological focuses, which show how sacred texts can evolve with context.
They Are the First Legal Codes in History
Even though the Ten Commandments are foundational, they weren’t the first law code. Ancient civilizations like the Sumerians and Babylonians had detailed laws centuries earlier, including Hammurabi’s Code, which predated Moses by roughly 500 years. What sets commandments apart is their divine attribution. They serve not just as laws but as a covenantal relationship between God and people.
The Sabbath Commandment Has a Universal Meaning
The Sabbath’s meaning varies dramatically across faiths. For Jews, it’s a day of rest rooted in creation and liberation. For Christians, it became Sunday observance, honoring Christ’s resurrection. Others interpret it as a general principle for rest and rejuvenation. All these differences highlight how a single commandment can inspire diverse traditions worldwide.
They Were Intended as a Comprehensive Moral Code
Often, the Ten Commandments overshadow the broader Mosaic Law, which includes 613 commandments covering everything from diet to social justice. The commandments were likely a summary of key principles, serving as an introduction to a much larger law framework. They’re foundational but far from the entirety of biblical law.