Deuteronomy 9:10

Then the LORD gave me the two stone tablets, inscribed by the finger of God with the exact words that the LORD spoke to you out of the fire on the mountain on the day of the assembly.

Study Bible

And the LORD gave me
This phrase emphasizes the divine origin of the law. The Hebrew word for "gave" is "נָתַן" (natan), which implies a gift or bestowal. In the context of the Israelites, this signifies that the law is not a human invention but a divine gift, underscoring the covenant relationship between God and His people. It is a reminder of God's grace and His desire to guide His people.

the two tablets of stone
The "two tablets of stone" are significant both physically and symbolically. Archaeologically, stone tablets were a common medium for recording important documents in the ancient Near East, signifying permanence and authority. Spiritually, they represent the enduring nature of God's commandments. The use of stone indicates that these laws are meant to be unchanging and eternal, much like the covenant they represent.

inscribed by the finger of God
This phrase is a powerful image of divine authorship. The "finger of God" is a metaphorical expression indicating direct divine intervention and authority. In Hebrew, the word "כָּתוּב" (katav) means "inscribed" or "written," suggesting that the commandments are not merely spoken but permanently recorded by God Himself. This underscores the sacredness and inviolability of the law.

and on them were all the commandments
The phrase "all the commandments" highlights the completeness and sufficiency of God's law. The Hebrew word "מִצְוָה" (mitzvah) refers to commandments or decrees. This indicates that the tablets contained the full scope of God's instructions necessary for the Israelites to live in accordance with His will. It reflects the comprehensive nature of God's guidance for His people.

that the LORD had spoken to you
This emphasizes the personal and direct communication between God and the Israelites. The Hebrew word "דִּבֵּר" (diber) means "spoken" or "said," indicating that these commandments were not just written but also verbally communicated. This dual mode of communication underscores the importance and seriousness of the law, as it was delivered directly by God to His people.

on the mountain out of the fire
The imagery of "the mountain out of the fire" evokes the dramatic and awe-inspiring setting of Mount Sinai. The mountain represents a place of divine revelation, while the fire symbolizes God's holiness and power. This setting underscores the majesty and authority of the law, as it was given in a context that highlighted God's transcendence and the seriousness of His covenant.

on the day of the assembly
The "day of the assembly" refers to the gathering of the Israelites at Mount Sinai to receive the law. The Hebrew word "קָהָל" (qahal) means "assembly" or "congregation," indicating a communal experience. This highlights the collective responsibility of the Israelites to uphold the covenant and the shared nature of their relationship with God. It serves as a reminder of the unity and identity of God's people as they stand together to receive His commandments.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites who received the tablets of stone from God. He serves as the mediator between God and the people.

2. The LORD (Yahweh)
The God of Israel who inscribed the commandments on the tablets. His direct involvement signifies the divine origin of the law.

3. Two Tablets of Stone
Physical objects that contained the Ten Commandments, symbolizing God's covenant with Israel.

4. The Mountain (Mount Sinai)
The location where God revealed Himself to Moses and gave the law. It is a place of divine encounter and revelation.

5. The Day of the Assembly
Refers to the time when the Israelites gathered at Mount Sinai to hear God's commandments, emphasizing the communal aspect of receiving the law.

Teaching Points

Divine Authority of Scripture
The commandments were inscribed by the "finger of God," highlighting the divine authority and inspiration of Scripture. Believers are called to respect and adhere to God's Word as the ultimate guide for life.

The Importance of Obedience
The giving of the law at Mount Sinai was a pivotal moment for Israel, emphasizing the importance of obedience to God's commandments. Christians are encouraged to live in obedience to God's Word, reflecting His character in their lives.

Community and Covenant
The "day of the assembly" underscores the communal aspect of receiving God's law. Believers are part of a covenant community, called to support and encourage one another in faithfulness to God's commands.

The Role of Mediators
Moses acted as a mediator between God and the people. In the New Testament, Jesus is the ultimate mediator, bridging the gap between God and humanity. Christians are reminded of the importance of Christ's mediating work in their relationship with God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding the divine origin of the commandments influence your view of Scripture and its authority in your life?

2. In what ways can you ensure that you are living in obedience to God's commandments in your daily life?

3. How does the concept of community play a role in your spiritual journey, and how can you contribute to the faith community around you?

4. Reflect on the role of mediators in the Bible. How does Jesus' role as a mediator impact your relationship with God?

5. Considering the new covenant described in Hebrews 8:10, how can you allow God's laws to be written on your heart, and what practical steps can you take to internalize His Word?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 31:18
This verse also describes the tablets as being inscribed by the finger of God, reinforcing the divine authorship of the commandments.

Matthew 5:17-18
Jesus speaks about the fulfillment of the law, connecting the Old Testament commandments to His teachings and mission.

Hebrews 8:10
Discusses the new covenant where God's laws are written on the hearts of believers, contrasting the physical tablets with spiritual transformation.