The Book of the Covenant

St. Catherine’s Mount Sinia D V Grieve

Here in the desert God finally gave mankind a set of rules, above all other rules, set in stone. Moses read them to the people and they promised to obey. The words were blazed in stone. The rules for civilization. The Book of the Covenant- covenant five, gives these 10 commandments for all of us to set up a fair society. God’s people are to be lead by prophets and judges instead of Kings, who call themselves Gods. Our history classes ignore that this is one of the most unique civilizations in the world for it’s time. Hebrew is one of the most ancient and isolated languages in ancient times. Its text is based on an alphabet instead of symbols, making it one of the earliest true writing in the world. It is a historic and powerful regulation for self-control. But just as we do, his teenage children went out and partied while Moses was busy. God was angry, but as a good parent, he relented, forgave and continued to raise the wayward bunch. We often dilute or avoid these commandments as old-fashioned and not applicable today. then again some people make all the numerous minor ordinances and requirements of Leviticus and Deuteronomy as important as commandments. That is not correct, the ordinances have genuinely been replaced with scientific health and cleanliness rules and better laws. Moses was doing the best he could. God knew we would advance and improve on manmade ordinances. A thousand years later Jesus would address man’s written codes; but he reminded us God’s direct commandments are set in stone:

1 “Thou shalt have no other gods before me.”

2 “Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image.

3 “Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain.”

4 “Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy.”

5 “Honour thy father and thy mother.”

6 “Thou shalt not kill.”

7 “Thou shalt not commit adultery.”

8 “Thou shalt not steal.”

9 “Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbour.”

10 “Thou shalt not covet.”

 Exodus 20