The Writing of the Commandments refers to the divine act of inscribing the Ten Commandments on tablets of stone, as recorded in the Old Testament. This event is a pivotal moment in biblical history, signifying God's covenant with the people of Israel and His provision of a moral and spiritual framework for His chosen people.

Biblical Account

The primary account of the Writing of the Commandments is found in the Book of Exodus. After leading the Israelites out of Egypt, God called Moses to Mount Sinai, where He delivered the law. Exodus 31:18 states, "When He had finished speaking with him on Mount Sinai, He gave Moses the two tablets of the Testimony, tablets of stone inscribed by the finger of God." This divine inscription underscores the sacred and authoritative nature of the Commandments.

The Tablets of Stone

The tablets were not merely a human artifact but were crafted by God Himself. Exodus 32:16 describes them: "The tablets were the work of God, and the writing was the writing of God, engraved on the tablets." This emphasizes the divine origin and unchangeable nature of the Commandments, setting them apart from other laws and decrees.

The Breaking and Renewal of the Tablets

The initial set of tablets was broken by Moses in response to Israel's idolatry with the golden calf (Exodus 32:19). This act symbolized the breach of the covenant by the people. However, God's mercy and willingness to renew the covenant are demonstrated when He instructs Moses to chisel out two new stone tablets. In Exodus 34:1 , God commands, "Chisel out two stone tablets like the originals, and I will write on them the words that were on the first tablets, which you broke."

The Second Inscription

The second inscription of the Commandments is recorded in Exodus 34:28 : "And he was there with the LORD forty days and forty nights, without eating bread or drinking water. And he wrote on the tablets the words of the covenant—the Ten Commandments." This reiteration of the Commandments reaffirms God's enduring covenant with Israel despite their transgressions.

Significance in Biblical Theology

The Writing of the Commandments is foundational to biblical theology, representing God's direct communication and covenant with His people. The Commandments serve as a moral compass, reflecting God's holiness and His expectations for human conduct. They are central to the Mosaic Law and have enduring significance in both Jewish and Christian traditions.

New Testament Perspective

In the New Testament, the Commandments are affirmed by Jesus Christ, who emphasizes their spiritual intent. In Matthew 5:17-18 , Jesus declares, "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. For truly I tell you, until heaven and earth pass away, not a single jot, not a stroke of a pen, will disappear from the Law until everything is accomplished." This underscores the continued relevance of the Commandments in the life of believers.

The Writing of the Commandments remains a testament to God's desire for a holy and obedient people, providing a timeless standard for righteousness and justice.