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 After centuries in Egypt, culminating in slavery, Yahweh delivered the Hebrews not only from Pharaoh but also from the false gods of Egypt and beyond (Exodus 7–12, Psalm 78). This liberation set the stage for something far more intimate than mere laws—it was a covenant, akin to wedding vows, between Yahweh and His people.

A Covenant, Not Just Commandments

Rather than a burdensome yoke (Acts 15:10), the events at Mount Sinai resemble a marriage ceremony, complete with:

  • Mikvah (ritual cleansing) – The people were commanded to purify themselves (Exodus 19:10-14).
  • Chuppah (canopy) – Yahweh covered the mountain with a cloud (Exodus 19:17).
  • Ketubah (marriage contract) – The Ten Commandments, given in duplicate, symbolize mutual commitment (Exodus 20:1-17).
  • Sign – The Sabbath, a visible and perpetual reminder of the relationship (Exodus 31:16-17).

Each commandment reflects an expectation within this covenant, much like the commitments in a marriage:

  1. No other gods – "I am your only love" (Exodus 20:3; Hosea 2:16).
  2. No carved images – "Do not dwell on past lovers" (Exodus 20:4-6).
  3. Do not take My name in vain – "Respect My name, for you bear it now" (Exodus 20:7).
  4. Keep the Sabbath – "Spend time with Me regularly" (Exodus 20:8-11).
  5. Honor father and mother – "Respect the family I’ve placed you in" (Exodus 20:12).
  6. Do not murder – "Life is precious" (Exodus 20:13).
  7. Do not commit adultery – "Be faithful, both to Me and to one another" (Exodus 20:14).
  8. Do not steal – "Trust that I will provide" (Exodus 20:15).
  9. Do not bear false witness – "Let truth define our relationship" (Exodus 20:16).
  10. Do not covet – "Be content with what I give you" (Exodus 20:17).

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