Moses, a central figure in the Hebrew Bible, is renowned for his role as a prophet, leader, and lawgiver. His commands from the LORD are pivotal in the narrative of the Israelites' journey from slavery in Egypt to the Promised Land. These divine instructions, delivered through Moses, form the foundation of the covenantal relationship between God and His chosen people.

The Call of Moses

Moses' initial command from the LORD occurs at the burning bush, as recorded in Exodus 3. God reveals Himself to Moses and commissions him to lead the Israelites out of Egypt. The LORD says, "I have surely seen the affliction of My people in Egypt, and I have heard their cry... So now, go. I am sending you to Pharaoh to bring My people the Israelites out of Egypt" (Exodus 3:7, 10). This command sets the stage for the subsequent liberation of the Israelites.

The Ten Commandments

One of the most significant commands given through Moses is the Decalogue, or the Ten Commandments, found in Exodus 20:1-17 and Deuteronomy 5:6-21. These commandments serve as the moral and ethical foundation for the Israelite community. The LORD declares, "I am the LORD your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of slavery" (Exodus 20:2), establishing His authority to issue these commands. The Ten Commandments encompass directives regarding the worship of God, the sanctity of life, family, property, and truth.

The Law of Moses

Beyond the Ten Commandments, Moses receives a comprehensive set of laws and ordinances from the LORD, often referred to as the Mosaic Law. These laws cover various aspects of daily life, including civil, ceremonial, and moral regulations. The LORD instructs Moses, "These are the statutes and ordinances and laws that the LORD established between Himself and the Israelites through Moses on Mount Sinai" (Leviticus 26:46). The Mosaic Law is integral to the identity and religious practice of the Israelites.

The Tabernacle and Worship

Moses also receives detailed instructions for the construction of the Tabernacle, a portable sanctuary for worship, as described in Exodus 25-31. The LORD commands, "Then have them make a sanctuary for Me, so that I may dwell among them" (Exodus 25:8). The Tabernacle serves as the focal point of Israelite worship and the dwelling place of God's presence among His people.

The Journey to the Promised Land

Throughout the Israelites' journey to the Promised Land, Moses conveys numerous commands from the LORD. These include instructions for the organization of the camp, the observance of festivals, and the allocation of land. In Numbers 33:50-53, the LORD commands Moses, "Speak to the Israelites and say to them: When you cross the Jordan into the land of Canaan, you must drive out all the inhabitants of the land before you."

The Renewal of the Covenant

As the Israelites prepare to enter the Promised Land, Moses reiterates the LORD's commands and renews the covenant. In Deuteronomy 30:19-20, Moses exhorts the people, "I call heaven and earth as witnesses against you today that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing. Therefore choose life, so that you and your descendants may live, and that you may love the LORD your God, obey Him, and hold fast to Him."

Moses' commands from the LORD are foundational to the faith and practice of the Israelites, shaping their identity as God's covenant people and guiding them in their relationship with Him.