Bible Dictionary
TEN COMMANDMENTS, THE
The Ten Commandments, or Decalogue, are the ten covenant words spoken by God to Israel at Sinai and written on stone tablets. They establish Israel’s duties toward God and neighbor, forbidding idolatry, false worship, murder, adultery, theft, false witness, and coveting, while requiring honor and Sabbath observance.
Biblical Usage
The Decalogue was primarily addressed to Israel after deliverance from Egypt and was given as the foundation of the covenant. Jesus and the apostles call these precepts commandments, while Jesus also relates their duties to love for God and neighbor. The tablets were kept in the ark of the covenant.